The distinct crunch of copper leaves underfoot has replaced the click of sandals and clink of iced cocktail glasses, signifying that autumn has officially arrived. And though it’s with a heavy heart that we part with rooftop drinks and long, lethargic evenings in the garden, we’re ready to wrap ourselves up in our softest faux shearling coat, pull on a pair of knee high boots and make the most of the cosiest season of the year.
And so, with that in mind, we’ve curated a clutch of the most fun things to do in autumn as we start the slow slide toward the festive season.
Lean into the season with pumpkin picking
Whether you have ambitions to cover your mantelpiece or create a table centrepiece that encompasses the ochre colours of the season, looking to cook up a nourishing pumpkin soup or are keen to stock up for spooky season, pumpkin picking encompasses everything we love about autumn. It’s out in the crisp air, it’s aesthetically pleasing and it makes for a wholesome date or family-friendly day out.
Opt for Stanhill Farm in Kent or Garson Farm in Surrey to make a day of it, or head to Cammas Hall pumpkin patch in Hertfordshire - where golden hour pumpkin picking is accompanied by live music - for something different.
What to wear:
Sartorially, pumpkin picking calls for pieces that offer both warmth and movement, so that you’re free to bend and stretch to reach the best gourds and able to keep cosy out in the middle of the ‘patch’. Opt for a cape - like this military trim knitted version - to allow for flow and pair with shearling leather trim ankle boots to keep toes toasty.
Light up at the night at Christmas at Kew Gardens
Meandering the famous Kew Gardens (including the 118 steps up to the Treetop Walkway) is a soul-nourishing activity at any time of year, but across autumn, the 11,000 trees that pepper the parkland get a real glow up, in the form of millions of light bulbs. The trail guides visitors around the star players at Kew - including the majestic glass greenhouse, via food and drink stops (we recommend indulging in a Montezuma hot chocolate or a warming mulled wine), weaving around a series of illuminated art installations. If we could bottle the atmosphere of festive magic on offer here, we would.
And if you can’t make it to Kew, Blenheim Palace, Windsor Great Park and Chatsworth House all have their own illuminated festive trails running throughout the season.
What to wear:
A balloon sleeve cable knit midaxi dress, paired with tights, leather boots and a belted coat (with a faux shearling collar to really frame the face and elevate the outfit) is the most sartorially savvy decision you could make here, in terms of comfort, warmth and style.
See the Capital through Monet’s eyes
If the chill gets all too much, take things inside and enjoy extraordinary views of London while staying warm: by exploring the remarkable Impressionist paintings of Claude Monet, now on display at The Courtauld Gallery. The breathtakingly beautiful paintings of foggy historic London perfectly showcase Monet’s famous eye for haze and light and signify his deliberate move away from representation and into glorious abstraction.
What to wear
Pacing the boards of the exhibition calls for chunky leather Chelsea boots; not only will they keep you comfy on your feet, they’ll also prevent any echoing footsteps as you explore. Pair them with a wool batwing jumper and a pair of leather trousers for the ultimate autumnal uniform.
Go aprés at The Mandrake’s winter garden
Nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia, The Mandrake hotel is beloved by the capital’s sartorially-savvy set, and for good reason, because when autumn hits, their popular Jurema Terrace transforms into the Jurema Winter Garden, providing a cosy hideaway in the lungs of the city. You'll find yourself wrapped in the warmth of faux-fur blankets, surrounded by the gentle twinkle of fairy light and the transparent glass roof offers an uninterrupted look at Jurema's hanging garden. Only your chicest pals should get the call-up.
What to wear:
The Jumera Winter Garden operates a ‘strictly smart casual’ dresscode, leaning more toward the smart, so opt for versatile midi dress with an oversized coat perched atop your shoulders. This rich burgundy knit pleated skirt midi dress offers up a chic nod to the utility trend, while a statement woven pussybow midaxi is an enriching take on the dress code.
Cosy up for a Sunday roast
As we wave a fond farewell to barbecue season, we usher in the era of that age-old British tradition; the Sunday roast. And it doesn’t get much cosier, much more nourishing, than squeezing yourselves around a rickety wooden table beside a roaring fire at an upmarket pub, after a blustery, cheek-rouging walk. Try the sought-after Spaniards Inn, beloved by many of Hampstead’s most notable residents, perched beside The Heath, or try Hawksmoor’s first Scottish joint (which continues their London legacy), the Edinburgh outpost sees a charcoal roasted rump of 35-day dry-aged beef taking centre stage, surrounded by all your favourite accouterments.
What to wear:
A suede mid calf slouch heeled boot will set the relaxed scene - though if you’re heading out for a wander first, it might be best to stick with ankle boots - paired with an oversized knit. If you’re planning on really tucking in (as is expected at a roast), avoid the jeans and go for a pair of tailored wide leg trousers.
