Halloween is the perfect time to get cosy and enjoy a spooky book under the covers. But it’s also the perfect time of year to enjoy all that Autumn has to offer! With the leaves changing colours and the weather getting cooler, there are so many ways to enjoy British woodlands and nature this Halloween season.
1. Go For a Walk In The Woods
If you’re looking for something different to do on Halloween night, why not go for a woodland walk? There are plenty of places around the UK where you can find some of the most amazing scenery this time of year. If you live near a forest or park, then take yourself, your dogs, or kids out into the wilds and embrace the windy air and spooky atmosphere as you explore.
2. Learn About The Different Autumn Leaves
The autumnal leaves change colour throughout the month of October. Some trees will have their leaves turning red, orange, yellow, and brown. It’s great fun to learn about what type of tree they belong to, how old these trees are, and what animals surround them. No matter your age, autumn and Halloween is a great opportunity to take the time to reconnect to your natural surroundings. You could even make a little leaf collage with what you find!
3. Natural Decorations
Autumn means pumpkins! Pumpkins aren’t just limited to carving at Halloween, try and make the most of them by using up yours carved out pumpkins in soups and cakes. Use these seasonal decorations in your garden, porch, front door, or window boxes. They look fantastic against the backdrop of the changing foliage! Another great way to save on waste is to put out your pumpkin seeds for animals to enjoy.
4. Get Spooky At The Cemetery
As long as you are a respectful guest, there’s nothing better than a cool, brisk walk around one of the many fascinating cemeteries and Church Yards this season if you’re after a bit of a moody Halloween adventure. As cemeteries are usually undisturbed, you’re likely to come across a range of beautiful tree species, foraging animals, and maybe a ghost or two if you’re lucky!
5. Fascinating Fungi
Another great way to get into the festive spirit is to spend an afternoon studying fungi. These are often found growing underneath trees, but can be found in any number of other environments too. They start appearing in the autumn months and continue until early spring. When you spot them, don’t touch them – instead, leave them alone and let them grow back again next year.
6. Watch Wildlife
Halloween is the best time of year to watch wildlife. Many creatures return to their homes for the winter months and are more visible during this time before they are tucked away for hibernation. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bats, owls, hedgehogs, foxes, badgers, and deer on your woodland adventure. A great way to do this is be setting up an unobtrusive wildlife camera overnight, and seeing the nocturnal animals foraging and scurrying about in the night.
7. Donate To Your Local Wildlife Centre or Woodland Trust
During the autumn months, some animal centres and rescue centres close down for the winter. By donating to these organisations, you’ll ensure their doors stay open and their residents receive everything they need for the cold nights ahead. This is also a great time of year to visit a Woodland trust, or volunteer your time to local organisations.
From woodlands, treetops, and even just your local Church Yard; it doesn’t matter where you are in the UK, you’re bound to find a way to embrace the changing leaves and get that magical spooky feeling. With a little research, creativity, and ingenuity, you can really make the most of the season and add a bit of mindful appreciation of the natural world whilst you’re at it. Happy Haunting!
If you’re looking for more spooky content, take a look at our other October blog posts:
