Autumn brings a fresh energy to the season, making it the perfect time to seek out unusual ways to spend a day.
Crisp air and golden leaves create a backdrop that turns even the most unexpected adventure into something memorable.
From exploring hidden corners to trying activities you might never have considered before, autumn offers countless opportunities to step outside routine.
It’s not just about the classic walks or cosy cafés - quirky experiences can mean hands-on workshops, curious cultural encounters, or stepping into places you wouldn’t usually go.
The season itself makes everything feel a little more magical, whether it’s the colours in the trees or the hint of mystery in shorter evenings.
With a mix of indoors and outdoors, active and relaxed, there are plenty of unique ways to enjoy autumn while discovering something new.
Think of it as a season for curiosity, adventure, and stories worth telling.
Take a trip to one of these local wonders during October half-term:
5. Soho House
Soho House was the home of the industrialist and entrepreneur Matthew Boulton from 1766 to 1809. It became a favourite meeting place of the Lunar Society - a group of free thinking scientists and industrialists included Joseph Priestley, Erasmus Darwin, Josiah Wedgwood, James Watt and William Withering. (Photo by Wehwalt/Wikimedia Commons) | Wehwalt/Wikimedia Commons
6. Lapworth Museum of Geology, Birmingham
The Lapworth Museum of Geology is run by the University of Birmingham and is located on the university’s campus in Edgbaston. The museum is named after the 19th century geologist Charles Lapworth. It has a great collection of fossils and other specimen. (Photo - Shantavira/wikimedia commons) | Shantavira/wikimedia commons
7. Edward Burne-Jones stained-glass windows, Birmingham Cathedral
Birmingham Cathedral has some rich history hidden in plain sight. There are four stained glasse artworks by Pre-Raphaelite artists Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris in the cathedral. | Asmita Sarkar
8. Mailbox, Birmingham
Under The Mailbox lies a tunnel used by Royal Mail to transport millions of letters and parcels to Birmingham’s New Street Station. It was opened in 1970 and was shut in 1998. (Photo - Local TV) | Local TV