Feeling the cold? Here’s 10 seasonal activities to do in London this autumn

Felt that crisp change in the air? Seen a pumpkin or two in your local Lidl? That’s right, autumn has finally arrived!

If you’re the kind of person who loves a pumpkin spice latte, or can’t resist a spooky movie marathon in October, then this is the guide for you.

From cosy cafés to scenic walks, we’ve rounded up the best ways to enjoy autumn in London.

1. Take a stroll through the parks

To get in the cosy mood, go for a walk through some of London’s most beautiful parks. If you don’t mind venturing a little outside the city, Richmond Park is worth it: London’s largest royal park, full of ancient oaks and home to free-roaming herds of deer.

Closer to central is Regent’s Park, the perfect spot to soak up some greenery amid the urban chaos. There are sports areas if you fancy a kick-about, cafes for a mid-walk coffee, and even the London Zoo.

Further west we have Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, perfect for wandering the rose gardens or checking out the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain. Hyde Park is also home to the Serpentine Gallery, a free gallery showcasing contemporary art and architecture.

No matter which London park you choose,  a stroll in nature is always a great way to lift your mood, brighten your day, and soak up the changing of the seasons.

2. Enjoy a cosy café

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Nothing beats a warm drink when the weather turns chilly, and London is full of cosy spots to relax in style. Lose yourself in a book (and maybe a seasonal latte) at chic cafés like Host, The Wren and Maison Assouline, or head to Camden Bakery for 50 per cent off drinks from 4.30-7pm everyday, perfect for a mid-week pick-me-up.

If greenery is your vibe, The Onion Garden in Westminster turns nature into art right in the café. Meanwhile, the Rex Mayfair serves deli and bistro in a restored Victorian stable.

3. Visit a a pumpkin patch

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Pumpkin patches are a must in autumn, and London has some great spots. The London Pumpkin Patch in Parsons Green is perfect for cute autumn photos, seasonal drinks, and picking your very own pumpkin. Entry is £6, with £10 entry to add on Trick or Treat Lane – a kid-friendly zone full of storytelling and Halloween treats.

Another one is Hobbledown Heath Pumpkin Patch near Heathrow, which has  pumpkin picking, a petting zoo, and seasonal games. With tickets starting at around £7.50 per person, this is not one to miss!

4. Head to a sip and paint

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Need a chance to unleash your inner artist? A sip and paint session is the perfect cosy evening with friends. Laugh, sip and maybe create a masterpiece (or just a very abstract pumpkin).

Places to try include ArtistAnd in Waterloo, Wimbledon Art Studios, Party n Paint in Holborn, or Paint and Sip at The Owl and Pussycat in Shoreditch.

5. Enjoy a bookshop crawl

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Pub crawls are fun, but sometimes you just want something a bit quieter. Trade a hangover for a good story and go on a bookshop crawl instead. London’s packed with cosy spots that are perfect for an afternoon of browsing.

Start with Word on the Water in Camden, a floating book barge with serious charm. Then wander through Daunt Books in Marylebone, or check out Primrose Hill Books for a smaller shop in a friendly neighbourhood. And if you’re feeling ambitious, Foyles on Tottenham Court Road is huge, located perfectly for UCL students.

No matter your vibe, there’s a London bookshop waiting for you.

6. Halloween at Kew Gardens

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Everyone knows Kew Gardens for its Christmas lights, but it does a pretty banging Halloween too. Expect a hidden surprise or two on the immersive Halloween light trail, with ghouls, witches, and monsters roaming the path. Drag a few mates for moral support, and to laugh it off when something inevitably makes you jump!

They’re also serving themed food and drinks including “freaky” fries, hot chocolates, toasted monster marshmallows, and even hot toddies. Be sure to grab your tickets soon – it’s running from Friday 17th October – Sunday 2nd November.

7. Explore Notting Hill’s festive decorations

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Notting Hill isn’t just famous for its namesake rom-com or its pastel houses – it also goes all out for Halloween. It turns itself into a picture-perfect spooky stroll, with cobbled streets decked out in pumpkins, cobwebs, and way-too-real skeletons.

Some of the best spots to check out include Elgin Crescent, Stanley Gardens, Pembridge Place and Upper Philimore Gardens.

Make sure to grab a pumpkin spice latte or a hot cider to fuel your decoration-spotting and adventures.

8. Catch London’s Oktoberfest

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Though it’s originally a German tradition, London has its own thriving Oktoberfest scene. It’s the perfect excuse to tuck into authentic German food, music, and, of course drink lots of German beer.

This year, London’s Oktoberfest runs over three weekends in October, the first one being at St. Paul’s Green, Hammersmith this weekend (Friday 24th – Saturday 25th October). Student tickets are just £10, so don’t miss one of the best autumn parties in the city!

9. Attend a festival

There’s always a festival happening in London, so why not take advantage? October is packed with events to suit every vibe.

If live music is your thing, Heavy Psych Sounds Fest at Hackney Bridge (Friday 31st October – Saturday 1st November) delivers heavy rock goodness. For bookworms, the London Literature Festival at Southbank (Tuesday 21st October – Sunday 2nd November) has talks, performances, and plenty of literary fun.

In the mood for something a bit smoother? EFG London Jazz Festival in Nine Elms (Friday 14th November – Sunday 23rd November) showcases both established and up-and-coming jazz talent.

10. Explore the Tower of London’s spooky history

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It wouldn’t be Halloween without a haunting addition, and The Tower of London is the perfect place to get your spook on. Explore the chilling history of those confined within its walls – and maybe spot a few lingering spirits.

Keep an eye out for a Roman soldier near the London Wall, the two princes of the White Tower reportedly holding hands, and the ghastly sceptre of Anne Boleyn, who, as usual, seems to have misplaced her head.

No matter what draws you in, the Tower of London is the perfect place to get into the Halloween spirit. You’ll enjoy a good fright while learning a bit about London’s history – and maybe spot a few famous figures who are said to still haunts its halls. Student tickets with a valid ID are £28.50.

Featured image via Instagram