The definitive guide to autumn activities that don’t involve drinking

Whether you’re a fresher or a returning student, the pressure of adjusting back into university life can be draining- particularly if you aren’t fond of the social drinking atmosphere. Here is our definitive guide to some cosy and comforting activities that will help you and your friends settle into the autumn season:

Coffee study date 

The ultimate way to elevate a chilly autumn day is to treat yourself to a seasonal coffee! Rewarding yourself for making that Monday 9am lecture with a maple hazel latte from the campus Costa or a cheeky pumpkin spice is a wholesome way to get into the autumnal spirit. Extra points if you bring a friend along and make it a productive study date!

Decorate your university accommodation

Christmas isn’t the only time to decorate your home! Grab some pumpkins and a couple of flatmates and get carving. It’s a cheap and fun night in for you and your friends and a playful alternative to going out.

Create an autumn playlist 

My personal favourite way to romanticise autumn is creating a new playlist with songs or albums that you resonate with the season. Although it’s tough to leave your favourite summer songs behind, an artist’s new discography awaits! All Too Well (10 Minute Version), we’re looking at you.

Halloween film marathon

Making a weekly tradition with your friends or housemates is a great way to settle in and separate your university schedule from your downtime. Grab some snacks and hot chocolate, let each friend pick their favourite Halloween films, and get rating on Letterboxd!

Autumn walks 

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The campus is most beautiful during autumn, so taking the time to sit outside and enjoy the scenery before the dreaded winter hits is a must! The canal walk around the university and Selly Oak is very scenic too and a perfect place to take an afternoon after a long day.

Board games night

Bored of Broad Street? If you’re getting exhausted by your university’s drinking culture, a board games night is a wholesome alternative that saves you a hangover and an empty bank account.

Cosy autumn meals

@kyfitjourney

Best dessert ever😮‍💨🍎 #applecrumble #crumble #baking #bakingrecipe #autumnrecipes

♬ som original – 🪐musics

Scrolling through TikTok recipes is a perfect way to find your new favourite comfort cosy meals to get you through the chilly nights. You can also say your doom-scroll was productive, you’re welcome.

With so many comforting activities to try this autumn without drinking, make sure you give yourself some time to rest as assignments loom.