Autumn is upon us in the UK, and is a time of year that has some wonderful traditions and celebrations. Whether it be taking a walk amongst autumnal colours, or foraging in the hedgerows, there is lots for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Picking Blackberries
In August, September and early October the hedgerows come alive with delicious blackberries. There is something delightful about filling a basket with blackberries and taking them home to make a crumble. However, it is important to remember these berries are also a crucial food source to animals and birds, so make sure you don’t take them all!
Beautiful Colours
The autumnal colours of yellows, oranges and reds only last for a few weeks so best to make the most of it while you can and get out and about as and when the sun shines. Find a woodland walk, and on a warm sunny autumn day the colours will look sensational.
Search for Conkers
Children of all ages, and adults too, delight in finding conkers at this time of year. Within the spiky seed pod of the horse chestnut tree there lies the shiny smooth seed that is wonderfully tactile, and coveted by ‘conker players’. Search up how to play conkers and take part in this traditional game.
Forage for Sloe Berries
Blackthorn trees carry their small but beautiful blue purple fruit in autumn. Sloes aren’t particularly tasty to eat straight from the tree but are delicious if made in to a jam, jelly or sloe gin. Early October is a great time to make sloe gin as it will be ready just in time for Christmas.
Celebrate Halloween
Halloween, falling at the end of October, has a wealth of traditions. Pumpkin carving, lighting bonfires and apple bobbing are three such activities associated with this festival. It is widely believed that many Halloween traditions originated from ancient Celtic harvest festivals, particularly the Gaelic festival Samhain.
If you are interested in everything that National Trust has to offer this autumn then why not start by visiting our National Trust page.
