Top 10 things to do this autumn in East Yorkshire

Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year to go walking in East Yorkshire. The days are usually still bright, crisp, and sunny but the landscape is starting to transform into gorgeous shades of red and orange.

The Walking East Yorkshire Festival takes place around the middle of September each year, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to join a huge choice of group walks. Over the course of nine days, you can explore every corner of East Yorkshire, from the heritage coast at Bempton to the rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Wolds, and the mighty Humber Estuary. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller, you’re welcome to get involved.

If you prefer to go it alone, there are endless opportunities to get out and stretch your legs. Why not choose a section of the Yorkshire Wolds Way National Trail, head to a nature reserve, take a stroll through the Humber Bridge Country Park or enjoy the views at Danes Dyke?

With the changing of the season and the falling of the leaves comes the falling of conkers too! These green spiky shells fill me with childish excitement, and it certainly gets competitive in our family – who can find the best? The biggest? And of course, the most?  My haul sits proudly on the hearth of my fire, on windowsills and every other corner of the house (natural spider deterrent… apparently). Danes Dyke is our favourite spot for finding conkers. Some of the woodland’s paths are lined with conker trees and the floor is littered with them if you time it just right. A walk in the late afternoon or evening with an amble to shore lends itself to beautiful autumn skies as the sun lowers over Bridlington Bay.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, taking place every September. Over several days, thousands of historic sites and cultural venues across the country open their doors to the public for free, offering the chance to explore hidden gems that are usually closed or charge for entry. It’s a great way to connect with local history, learn about architectural wonders, and appreciate the significance of landmarks which may have always been a mystery to you.

Here in East Yorkshire, Heritage Open Days revolve around the historic market town of Beverley and the lovely seaside town of Bridlington. Both have fascinating pasts just waiting to be uncovered! With around 45 events to choose from, you can do everything from go behind the scenes at historic theatres, discover secret gardens, step onboard restored barges and marvel at some of East Yorkshire’s most beloved landmarks.

Find Heritage Open Day events in Beverley

Find Heritage Open Day events in Bridlington
 

Possibly the cutest autumn activity you could hope to find anywhere! Starting mid-September and running for around two months, Dumble Farm invites you to join their farmers for a unique and hands-on Highland calf handling experience.

You’ll learn about the history of Dumble Farm and their important conservation work. Then comes the highlight of the day—meeting their fluffy, super cute Highland calves! You'll have the chance to stroke, brush, and cuddle these gentle creatures before being shown how to halter them and lead them for short distances.

After spending quality time with the calves, it’s time to hop on the Dumble Bus for a safari to meet the main fold of Highland cows. With their dramatic horns, long flowing coats, and charming dossans (their shaggy fringes), these cows are a special sight, and they all love a good fuss!
 

Autumn is an ideal time to visit East Yorkshire’s stately homes and enjoy a blend of culture and scenic beauty. As the leaves turn golden and the countryside is bathed in a warm glow, the gardens and grounds of these historic estates come alive with vibrant colours, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.

Inside, the homes often have seasonal displays and events, such as craft fairs and spooky Halloween goings on, but more about that later!
 

Scarves, gloves, and coats on it’s time to go to the Fair. Hull Fair usually takes place in October and is there for a couple of weeks, Bridlington hosts a smaller fair usually coinciding with half term. Do I dare go on the waltzers and that big tall one that just seems to drop from the sky? Absolutely not. You won’t even find me on the teacups. If that’s your bag – go for it! For me I love to soak it all up while wandering around, hearing the hissing of the rides machines, the pounding of the cheesy 90’s dance music, the bright twinkly lights against the dark skies, the smell of burgers and brandy snap and the buzz of the crowd. The kids are up past bedtime and we’re out of the house, it's dark and it feels exciting after a summer of long, light evenings.
 

Trick or treat! If you’re feeling daring, why not come along to one of East Yorkshire spooky Halloween events? Each October, the region comes alive with a range of ghoulish events, trails and activities, from the super scary to the family friendly. A lot of the events fall within the October half term so it makes keeping the kids entertained a little easier too!

From Trick or Treat Street at William’s Den to ghost walks around Beverley and spooky magic shows at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, there’s plenty going on. And that’s before we throw pumpkin picking into the mix.

I have to say pumpkin picking becomes a precise balance between the kids wanting to find the biggest and me wanting the most aesthetically pleasing, equally rounded one … naturally we come away with more than one to suit everyone’s tastes. Everyone is usually so exhausted from their day out pumpkin picking that carving usually waits till next day, where we’ll have a cosy pyjama morning watching films and carving pumpkins and equally enjoying our great day in.
 

Remember, remember the 5th of November. Yes, Bonfire night. Make new memories by attending Sledmere House’s Musical Firework Spectacular. Now in its 9th year this spectacle of light and sound is thrilling and worth every penny, and while there’s always something magical about fireworks in the night sky, the musical theatrics that Sledmere create are stunning and take the experience to another level. It doesn’t end there, Sledmere throws open the gates from 4pm (the display starts at 7.30pm) so you can also enjoy the rides and attractions on offer. Not to mention bonfire treats served at the Coach House Bistro to really set the scene.
 

East Yorkshire’s beaches aren’t just for the summer, they’re great to visit in the autumn too. As the summer crowds fade away, the coastline becomes a serene escape, perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and simply enjoying their natural beauty. The crisp autumn air and golden sunlight make the beaches even more picturesque and provide the perfect backdrop for tucking into fish and chips.

One of the best parts about visiting East Yorkshire's beaches in autumn is that dogs are allowed back on all parts of the beaches from 1st October. This means you can bring your furry friends along for a run on the sand and a splash in the sea, enjoying the freedom of the open beach and making the most of the peaceful autumn atmosphere.
 

Chilly walks and crisp autumn air are the perfect excuse to indulge in a seasonal hot chocolate or two. You’ll find plenty of cosy cafes dotted throughout East Yorkshire such as Ruby Soho in Bridlington who are constantly trying out new flavours and are always going extra on the toppings! Or how about visiting the tipi in Beverley’s Flemingate which arrives each November, serving up boozy hot chocolates by a warming fit pit with twinkly fairy lights to make the experience feel even more wholesome.
 

Autumn in East Yorkshire brings a wealth of wildlife spectacles, making it a fantastic season for nature lovers.

One of the main attractions is the spectacle of migrating birds at sites like RSPB Bempton Cliffs. This time of year sees a variety of species passing through, including thrushes, finches, and the occasional rare visitor. The coastal reserves and wetlands are bustling with activity as birds stop to rest and feed on their way south.

Autumn is also a great time to spot deer in the region’s woodlands and parks. The rutting season, which peaks in October, provides a dramatic display.