We can already smell the pumpkin spice and feel the crunch of the leaves beneath our feet. Whilst you may be reluctant to let go of summer, we still have the cosy vibes of autumn to look forward to. Grab your softest jumper, switch your sandals for boots, and get ready for a great autumn in Essex!

Pumpkin Picking in Essex

A must-do activity every year as soon as the leaves begin to turn, there are many wonderful pumpkin patches in Essex that provide the most wholesome seasonal activity.

Cammas Hall Farm

Get into the Halloween and autumn spirit with a visit to the Cammas Hall Farm Pumpkin Patch! Located in Hatfield Broad Oak, Uttlesford, the pumpkin patch is open from the 5^th to 31^st October. Tickets include entry to the patch which has over 50 varieties of pumpkins and squash to pick and purchase, the world’s only erupting Pump-Cano, the chance to meet enchanting Halloween characters, and so much more! Will you dare to enter the Terror Tunnel?

Hatters Farm

Also in the Uttlesford District, Hatters Farm is a family-run pumpkin farm growing a wide variety of pumpkins and squash. Grab a wheelbarrow and search through the field for your perfect pumpkin for carving or cooking! There are plenty of other fun-filled activities to take part in – fire the pumpkin canon, make your way through the Maize Maze, walk the Nature Trail, and get that ideal snap for Instagram at one of their many photo opportunities. Hot food and drink will also be available!

Marsh Farm Pumpkin Village

Marsh Farm have gone pumpkin picking mad with their Pumpkin Village this year in South Woodham Ferrers! Open from 27^th September to 31^st October, with dog friendly and SEN friendly sessions, as well as their Pumpkin Picking Nights featuring fun fair rides. Explore the haunted house or have a blast on the dodgems!

More Autumn Activities in Essex

Sundown Adventures at Go Ape

Experience the magic of Sundown Adventures at Go Ape, Chelmsford, this autumn. Take on new challenges in the colourful illuminated forest - navigate high ropes and ziplines under the stars and make memories with friends and family that will last a lifetime. These special sessions are taking place on selected nights from Saturday 19th October to Sunday 10th November! 

Autumn Air: October Fly-In

Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in Purleigh will be hosting a wonderful event on Saturday 12^th October to give pilots and visitors a chance to enjoy the last few days of clear skies at the museum. Catch a peek at the aircraft that fly throughout the arena, stroll around galleries and exhibitions, and more.

Autumnal Walks in Essex

There are many wonderful walks in Essex that are beautiful during the autumn season. Head to Epping Forest to feel the leaves crunch beneath your feet, or wrap up warm and head to one of the lovely coastal towns in Tendring - who says the beach is just for summer? Highwoods Country Park in Colchester is a beautiful woodland walk perfect for the whole family, including the dog! Refuel after your walk with light refreshments and relax on one of the picnic benches whilst the kids enjoy the play area. 

Autumn Wreath Workshop at Cammas Hall Farm

Who says wreaths are just for Christmas? Construct the perfect Autumn Wreath with the help of instructor Sally, decorating it with leaves, vegetables and mini pumpkins to create the perfect seasonal decoration. The session runs for an hour and a half, and all materials are provided as well as refreshments to enjoy whilst you work!

BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair

A perfect way to kick off Autumn 2024 for botanists, plant lovers, and garden enthusiasts! The BBC Gardeners’ World Autumn Fair will be taking place at the beautiful Audley End House & Gardens in Saffron Walden. Browse stalls with plants to purchase and other goodies, showcase gardens, get planting inspiration, tours from experts, indulge in delicious street food and enjoy live music! Don’t miss out on the autumn event of the year in Essex.

For more events taking place in Essex, visit our What’s On page. If you’re looking for some Halloween events and activities, head to our blog here.