Pick Fresh Apples
Pop your wellies on, grab a basket and get apple picking this autumn.
Get your hands on fresh, juicy apples at Peterley Manor Farm, a 40-acre family run farm. From apples, blackcurrants and plums to raspberries and gooseberries, there’s plenty for you to sample here. And, if you want to put your feet up after apple picking, just book a table at the Barn Kitchen.
Time for deer spotting
Head out into a number of the country’s parks or farms for a chance to see beautiful deer – surely one of nature’s most majestic creatures?
And you don’t need to be staying somewhere rural. Walk around London’s Richmond Park and you’re likely to spot some fallow and red deer. In autumn, the red stags and fallow bucks compete for females’ attention by roaring, barking and clashing antlers.
If you want to make a full day of it, head slightly further afield to Woburn Abbey, home to nine species of deer, making it one of the largest private conservation parks in Europe.
Forage in the woods
A real foodie favourite. Foraging is all about hunting for natural and delicious food sources and you can do it in pretty much any woodland area.
Head out with the family and make it a competition to see who can get their hands on the most plants, mushrooms, herbs, and fruits.
Foraging is the best activity to make you feel at one with nature. Although it’s permitted in the vast majority of public spaces, including parks, beaches, nature reserves, woodlands and hedgerows, you should remember that it’s illegal to dig up or remove a plant (this includes algae, lichens and fungi) without permission from the landowner or occupier.
Ride a steam train
Book a steam train journey for either a nostalgic trip down memory lane or an exciting day out for the whole family.
The South Devon Railway runs along the valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. This railway line stretches for seven miles and is the perfect all-weather attraction.
Or take the 20-minute journey from Haverthwaite to Lakeside and enjoy stunning views at the southern tip of Lake Windermere.
Whichever steam train you book, you’re sure to enjoy a unique experience.
Do a spot of antique shopping
There’s something about the autumn weather than makes us want to make our homes cosy. And where better to pick up some new trinkets than an antique shop or market?
Make a day of treasure hunting and fill your space with quirky items that are sure to wow your guests, or you could even make a start on your Christmas shopping.
Get your hands on one-of-a-kind items at Click Antiques and Vintage. From furniture to cutlery, you’ll be able to find a range of stunning items at Northampton's premier antique & vintage emporium.
If you’re in Warwick for the weekend, check out the Warwick Antiques Centre which was established in 1972. As one of Warwick’s most recognisable businesses, this centre sells a range of goods including jewellery, coins, postcards, toys, gifts and more.
And remember, every time you book a Best Western hotel you’re supporting local, proudly independent businesses, so you’re not just booking, you’re Booking Good!