Autumn Family Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Autumn is one of my favourite times to get outdoors. The air is crisp, the leaves crunch underfoot, and there's something about wrapping up warm that makes family adventures feel extra special. Arthur has just started Forest School sessions, so we're fully embracing the season - muddy boots, conker collections, and plenty of time outside.

We also squeezed in a weekend at Centerparcs recently, which reminded me how many ways there are to keep moving as a family - from cycling through the woods together, to splashing in the swimming pool. And of course, my weekly Saturday parkrun continues to be a (semi)regular occurrence, with Arthur zooming alongside on his balance bike before heading off to the playground afterwoods.

I've always believed that fresh air is the best reset - for me, for Arthur and for us as a family. And Autumn just happens to be the season that makes those moments feel even more special. It’s also the perfect time for planning some autumn family outdoor activities – whether that’s bigger adventures or simple everyday play.

Woodland Walks and Forest School

Arthur is really enjoying Forest School so far. We come home with muddy trousers, twigs/pine cones/conkers in our pockets and some very creative artwork! It's given me a new appreciation for heading out at other times too - short woodland walks at the weekend, or exploring the trails at Centerparcs, where he proudly rode his balance bike along the paths.

After a couple of near-slips chasing Arthur through the mud, I've realised decent footwear is a must. Autumn trails can be slippery and uneven, and when you're keeping up with a fearless toddler who wants to climb every log and jump in every puddle, you need shoes you can trust. A solid pair of walking boots helps me stay steady, dry and able to dash after my little adventurer, wherever the fancy takes him!

Cycling Together

Centerparcs gave us the perfect excuse to get on two wheels as a family. We took two adult bikes with us (for me and E) and then hired a third with a trailer so that Arthur could hop in for longer rides. It was only the second time that I've been on a bike since having Arthur, and it was so lovely to ride next to James and enjoy pedalling through the trees together, while Arthur waved at everyone from the back, and giggled as we zoomed down the hills.

At home, Arthur insists on bringing his balance bike to parkrun. He loves riding up and down the paths while I run my Saturday 5k, and it's become a little routine we all look forward to. It's chaotic, joyful, and the perfect reminder that fitness doesn't have to be just 'me-time' (though I do enjoy the peace and quiet too!) - sometimes it's about finding ways to share your passions with your children.

Autumn Family Outdoor Activities

Autumn is full of opportunities to get active as a family, whether that's Forest School, cycling through the woods, or cheering from the sidelines at sports matches. Arthur’s still a bit small for scrums, but I can already picture him charging about in the mud one day! The right gear makes those adventures easier - from sturdy boots to the right rugby shoes for the pitch - but really it's about the memories. Arthur proudly showing me his muddy conkers, giggling in the bike trailer at Centerparcs or racing me to the finish line on his balance bike - those are the moments that are worth every muddy footprint in the hallway.

Beki x