We cannot hide it, Autumn is our (my!) favourite season. I mean, what's not to like about slowing down and enjoying simple pleasures that warm the heart and soothe the soul?

As the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change colour, it’s the perfect time to embrace activities that connect us with nature, creativity, and community imo.

Here are our 5 cosy ways we like to celebrate autumn, from picking pumpkins from our friends farm in a nearby village to lighting scented candles that fill our home with the most deliciously comforting aromas.

(1) Pick Pumpkins at Village Pumpkins in Barlow, Peak District

Yes this activity might be very American, but it has now firmly become a British tradition too, with pumpkin patches being planted by farmers to extend their growing season & for us, they are a natural & relatively cheap way to decorate our homes for Autumn.

The Village Pumpkins patch in Barlow, nestled in the scenic Peak District village of Barlow, offers a delightful experience for all ages. Walking through rows of pumpkins, you can choose the perfect one to carve, cook, or decorate your home.

• What to expect: The patch is family-friendly with plenty of space to explore. You’ll find pumpkins of all sizes and shapes, ideal for carving "jack-o'-lanterns" or just popping on your sill or doorstep.

• Tips for picking: Look for pumpkins with firm skin and a sturdy stem. Avoid any with soft spots or bruises to ensure they last through the season.

• Nearby attractions: After picking your pumpkin, enjoy a cuppa & cake from their shepherds hut, take some photos from the best photo spots & even visit the small animal petting area.

  
  

(2) Light Scented Candles to Create a Warm Atmosphere

We love a candle & we are not fussy about the time of year, day or night or season. But - As the days grow shorter and evenings get cooler, lighting scented candles always brings a warm glow to our home. Our favourite is the Olive & B "Old Library" scent, a classic high end fragrance with subtle hints of amber & soft musk & warming blackcurrant & tuberose.

• Why scented candles? They enhance the mood, they make your space feel inviting and peaceful. The Old Library scent is perfect for autumn, offering a nostalgic and calming aroma.

• How to use: We place candles anywhere & everywhere, we even take them away in our campervan! Paired with cosy blankets and a good book for a relaxing evening, just a thought...

• Safety tip: & ofcourse, you should never leave candles unattended and keep them away from flammable materials.

(3) Fill Your Pockets with Foraged Finds for an Autumn Display

My pockets are always full of natural treasures I have picked up while out & about on a dog walk! & I am truly happy, that I have passed this habit down to my two, now grown up, boys. Just remember to check before you load the washing machine! Pretty autumnal fallen leaves, pinecones, acorns, berries and twigs. They all come home with me to be used to create seasonal still life displays that bring the outdoors inside.

• What to collect: Look for colourful leaves, pinecones of different sizes, and interesting seed pods. Only pick already fallen finds & no picking anything protected or rare.

• Display ideas: I like to pop my Autumn treasures on a windowsill or in a rustic bowl on the table to make an interesting centre piece, often adding a candle or fairy lights too. Top faffing!!

• Crafting tip: Press leaves between heavy books to preserve their colours for longer-lasting decorations.

  
  
  
  

(4) Visit Eyam Village Bonfire and Experience the "Burn the Rat" Tradition

Our Peak District village (Eyam) is famous for the history of the Plague. It hosts the most amazing & unique autumn event: the charity community bonfire night with the "burn the rat" tradition.

• What happens: It starts in the village square where you can join the procession, following the giant willow Rat effigy made by the school children, carry torches & chant "burn the rat" as we move to the bonfire site for food, fireworks & fun times.

• When to go: The event takes place on the closest Saturday to the 5th November (fyi 7/11/26)

• Why it matters: It’s a chance to connect with our local history, enjoy a community based event & support our local primary school.

  
  

(5) Do Mindful Crafting, Knit, Read a Book, Play Games, or Just Rest

As the nights draw in, the curtains close earlier & the lights & candles are on, it's the perfect time to slow down and focus on activities that nourish the mind and body. Whether you enjoy knitting a cosy scarf, reading a book by the fire, playing board games with family, or simply resting, these moments of Autumn mindfulness help you recharge.

• Knitting: Big or small projects, choose soft wool in autumnal colours like burnt orange, deep reds, or mustard yellow. Knitting is meditative and rewarding.

• Reading: Pick books that match the season’s mood—mysteries, historical fiction, or heartwarming stories.

• Games: Board games or puzzles bring people together and can create joyful memories, particularly if you have a competitive streak!

• Rest: Don’t underestimate the power of simply resting. Use this time to enjoy quieter moments.

  
  

There is no escaping it, we LOVE Autumn... It is the perfect time to connect with nature, community, each other and ourselves. From simply picking pumpkins in Barlow to the calming ritual of lighting scented candles, each activity brings a unique way to embrace the season’s charm. Try these cosy ideas to create your own autumn traditions and enjoy the simple pleasures that make this time of year so very special.

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