Discover the Best Manchester Things to Do This Autumn

Autumn's here, and Manchester's got loads going on. Forget staying in because it's getting chilly; there are plenty of great things to do around the city. From colourful walks to spooky events and tasty treats, we've rounded up some of the best Manchester things to do this autumn. Get ready to make the most of the season!

Key Takeaways

• Enjoy the vibrant colours of autumn with a walk in local parks like Alexandra Park or Chorlton Water Park.

• Get creative at the Manchester Art Fair, showcasing works from over 160 exhibitors.

• Experience the thrill of Halloween with various events and spooky attractions across the city.

• Indulge in hearty Sunday roasts or try seasonal treats like spooky bakes and autumnal doughnuts.

• Visit nearby attractions like Chester Zoo for a fun day out with family and friends.

1. Take An Autumnal Walk

As the weather cools and the leaves start to turn those brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, there's really nothing better than getting out for a walk. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that feels particularly special in autumn. Manchester and its surrounding areas have some fantastic spots for a wander.

The changing colours of the leaves create a stunning backdrop for any outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more vigorous hike, there's something for everyone.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Alexandra Park (Oldham): Known for its vibrant autumn foliage, this park offers beautiful views and a peaceful escape.

• Chorlton Water Park: Perfect for a waterside stroll, the reflections of the autumn leaves on the water are quite something.

• Castlefield and the Canal: If you're in the city centre, this area provides a lovely urban setting to enjoy the seasonal colours along the waterways.

For those who enjoy exploring further afield, consider checking out some of the popular fall hiking trails in the wider Manchester area. It’s a great way to experience the full beauty of the season.

Getting out for an autumnal walk is a brilliant way to clear your head and appreciate the natural beauty around us. The crisp air and the crunch of leaves underfoot are simple joys that make this season so enjoyable.

2. Visit A Pumpkin Patch

As the autumn air gets a bit crisper, there's nothing quite like heading out to a local pumpkin patch. It’s a classic seasonal activity that’s perfect for the whole family. You get to wander through fields, pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving, and soak up that lovely autumnal atmosphere.

Several places around Manchester offer this experience:

• Brookheys Farm, Dunham Massey: They offer tractor and trailer rides to help you get to the patch, and you can use their wheelbarrows. It's a proper farm experience.

• Jersey Girls Dairy, Bury: This place combines pumpkin picking with a spooky barn for carving, games, and treats. It sounds like a fun, all-in-one event.

• Cockfields Farm: Known for its Halloween fun, they have a big outdoor patch and a smaller indoor one, so you can pick your pumpkin whatever the weather.

• Tatton Park: Here, you can meet the farm animals before heading out to find your pumpkin. It’s a nice way to make a day of it.

• Reddish Vale Farm: This farm hosts a whole Halloween Festival, including pumpkin picking, a carving cavern, and even a spooky train ride.

Picking your own pumpkin is a fantastic way to get into the autumn spirit. It’s more than just buying one from the supermarket; it’s an adventure. You can make a whole day of it, maybe combine it with a walk or a hot drink afterwards.

Remember to check the specific dates and times for each location, as pumpkin patches often have limited opening periods, usually running from mid-October up to Halloween itself. Booking in advance might also be a good idea, especially for popular spots or if they offer specific activities like carving sessions.

3. Explore Manchester Art Fair

As the weather turns cooler, it's tempting to stay indoors, but Manchester's Art Fair offers a fantastic reason to get out and about. This is one of the UK's biggest art events, bringing together a huge number of galleries and artists all under one roof at Manchester Central. It's not just for serious collectors, mind you; it's for anyone with even a passing interest in art.

You can expect to see a wide range of works from both established and emerging artists. It's a great chance to discover new talent and maybe even find a piece you love. Beyond the displays, the fair often includes talks, interactive sessions, and workshops, so there's plenty to keep you engaged.

Here's a little of what you might find:

• Paintings in various styles and mediums.

• Sculptures, from small intricate pieces to larger installations.

• Photography and printmaking.

• Unique craft and design pieces.

It's a really vibrant atmosphere, and you never know what you might stumble upon. It’s a good way to spend an afternoon, soaking up some culture and seeing some truly impressive creativity.

The Manchester Art Fair is a brilliant opportunity to connect with the local and national art scene. It’s a place where you can see a diverse collection of art, learn from creators, and perhaps even start your own art collection.

4. See A Musical Or Catch A Play

As the days get shorter and the weather turns a bit nippy, it's tempting to just stay in. But Manchester's theatres are buzzing with life this autumn, offering a fantastic escape from the sofa. You can catch a dazzling musical or a thought-provoking play, and honestly, it's a brilliant way to spend an evening.

The Palace Theatre has a great line-up. From October 11th to 18th, you can see 'Sunny Afternoon', a show about The Kinks. Then, 'Fiddler on the Roof' runs from October 21st to November 1st, followed by the epic 'Miss Saigon' from November 4th to 15th. If musicals aren't quite your thing, the Opera House is showing 'Victoria Wood's Acorn Antiques the Musical' from November 2nd to 16th, and the hilarious 'Fawlty Towers - The Play' from November 4th to 8th.

Over at the Royal Exchange Theatre, you can immerse yourself in 'Dancing at Lughnasa', a story about five sisters, running from October 10th to November 8th. And kicking off on November 29th is the classic 'Singin' In The Rain'.

Here's a quick look at some of the highlights:

• Palace Theatre:Sunny Afternoon (Oct 11-18)Fiddler on the Roof (Oct 21-Nov 1)Miss Saigon (Nov 4-15)

• Opera House:Acorn Antiques the Musical (Nov 2-16)Fawlty Towers - The Play (Nov 4-8)

• Royal Exchange Theatre:Dancing at Lughnasa (Oct 10-Nov 8)Singin' In The Rain (Starts Nov 29)

Going to the theatre is a proper treat. It’s a chance to see incredible talent up close and get lost in a story for a couple of hours. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get dressed up a bit!

5. Immerse Yourself In Halloween Events

Manchester really gets into the spooky spirit as autumn rolls around, and there are loads of ways to get involved. The city centre itself transforms into a 'monstrous playground' for the annual Halloween in the City festival. This free event usually runs over a weekend, often the last one in October, and it's packed with activities for all ages. Think street parades where everyone's encouraged to wear costumes, games, and storytelling sessions that are perfect for families.

Beyond the main festival, you'll find a whole host of other goings-on:

• Dino Falls Adventure Golf: From late October, kids in fancy dress can play for free with a paying adult. It's a fun, scare-free way to get into the Halloween mood.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre: They often host a 'Brick or Treat' event with a special Halloween 4D movie and other LEGO-themed activities.

• Menagerie's Spooky Season Children's Halloween Party: Usually held on Halloween itself, this is a great option for younger ones with games and entertainment.

• Pumpkin Decorating Workshops: Keep an eye out for craft events where you can get creative with polystyrene pumpkins and all the supplies you need.

It's worth checking specific dates and times closer to the season, as events can vary year to year. Many places offer family-friendly, low-scare options alongside more intense experiences for those who like a good fright.

6. Enjoy A Sunday Roast

As the weather turns cooler, there's nothing quite like a proper Sunday roast to warm you up. It’s a British institution for a reason, isn't it? Piled high with tender meat, fluffy roast potatoes, a generous dollop of gravy, and all the trimmings – it’s the ultimate comfort food.

Manchester has a fantastic selection of places serving up these hearty meals. Whether you're after a classic beef or lamb, or fancy something a bit different like a nut roast or even a dedicated cauliflower cheese menu, you'll find it here. Many pubs and restaurants really go all out, offering everything from bottomless Yorkshire puddings to pies instead of meat. It’s a great way to round off your weekend without having to lift a finger in the kitchen, and let's be honest, who wants to do washing up on a Sunday?

Here are a few things to look out for when choosing your perfect roast:

• The Meat: Is it tender and flavourful? Often slow-cooked or roasted to perfection.

• The Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – the cornerstone of any good roast.

• The Gravy: Rich, flavourful, and plentiful. It’s the glue that holds the whole plate together.

• The Veggies: A good mix of seasonal vegetables, cooked just right.

• The Yorkshire Puddings: Light, airy, and a must-have, especially if they're oversized!

Finding a truly exceptional Sunday roast can feel like a quest, but the effort is always rewarded. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience, a chance to relax and indulge before the week ahead.

If you're looking for some inspiration, Manchester offers an astounding array of Sunday roast dinners, with options ranging from a dedicated cauliflower cheese menu to melting Wagyu beef. The quality and variety available make it a top destination for roast enthusiasts. It’s definitely worth exploring what Manchester’s best spots have to offer.

7. Discover Spooky Bakes

Autumn is definitely the season for treats, and Manchester's bakeries really pull out all the stops when Halloween rolls around. Forget your usual pastries for a bit, because things get a whole lot more interesting (and spooky!) this time of year. You can find some seriously creative bakes that look as good as they taste.

Think along the lines of pistachio choux buns shaped like little brains, or adorable Danish pastries decorated like mini pumpkins. Some places even get really creative with cookie pies, adding little marzipan witch fingers on top. It’s all about embracing the fun of the season with your food.

Here are a few ideas for what to look out for:

• Witchy Cookie Pies: Often filled with fruit and topped with spooky decorations.

• Brain-Shaped Choux Buns: A surprisingly tasty treat with a fun, eerie twist.

• Pumpkin-Themed Danish Pastries: Perfect for a seasonal breakfast or snack.

• Charcoal Croissants: For those who like their bakes a little bit different, often with a cookies and cream flavour.

It's not just about the look, though. Many of these special bakes incorporate autumnal flavours like apple, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice, making them the perfect accompaniment to a warm drink on a chilly afternoon. Keep an eye out for these limited-edition delights before they disappear after Halloween.

If you're looking for something a bit different, you might even find places offering ice cream doughnuts with crumble and custard fillings, or even dinky doughnuts served with milkshakes. It’s a great way to try something new and support local businesses. You can even find places offering Autumn Starry Night Painting Classes if you fancy getting creative yourself.

8. Try Autumnal Doughnuts

When the weather turns a bit chilly and you're after something sweet, you can't go wrong with a good doughnut. And this autumn, Manchester's bakeries have really stepped up their game. Forget your standard glazed ring; we're talking proper seasonal flavours that taste like a hug in a bite.

One place that's really doing it right is Baby Mayhem in Ancoats. They're known for their ice cream doughnuts, but they've launched a whole new autumn menu. Imagine a warm doughnut, filled with spiced apple, then topped with crunchy crumble and a drizzle of custard. Honestly, it sounds like pure comfort food. They also do these smaller, dinky doughnuts that come with ice cream and a choice of sauce, served on top of a Biscoff or Kinder milkshake. It's a bit extra, but in the best way possible.

Here are a few things to look out for when you're on the hunt:

• Spiced Apple & Crumble: A classic autumn combo that's hard to beat.

• Pumpkin Spice: If you love all things pumpkin spice, you'll find this flavour popping up.

• Maple Pecan: The nutty, sweet combination is perfect for the season.

• Salted Caramel: A popular flavour that works well with the richness of a doughnut.

Don't just stick to the usual suspects. Keep an eye out for local independent bakeries. They often have the most creative and delicious seasonal specials that you won't find anywhere else. It's a great way to support local businesses too.

So next time you're out and about in Manchester this autumn, treat yourself. A warm, flavourful doughnut is the perfect little pick-me-up on a crisp day.

9. Experience Scare City

If you're looking for a proper fright this autumn, then Scare City at Camelot Theme Park is probably your best bet. It's been running for a few years now, and they really go all out to make it terrifying. They've set it up across the old, abandoned theme park grounds, which already gives it a pretty creepy vibe, let's be honest.

This year, they've got a bunch of different zones you can walk through. Some of them are new, and some are returning favourites, so there's always something to keep you on edge. It's definitely not for the faint-hearted, so be prepared to jump out of your skin!

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Terrifying Zones: Navigate through various themed areas designed to scare you.

• Immersive Horror: The whole experience is built to make you feel like you're part of the horror.

• Abandoned Theme Park Setting: The eerie atmosphere of Camelot adds to the scares.

Tickets are available, with standard entry costing £29.50 and a 'Gold Entry' option for £44.50, plus booking fees. It runs from Monday 20 October onwards, so you've got a good window to get yourself booked in if you think you can handle it.

10. Visit Chester Zoo

Just a short trip from Manchester, Chester Zoo is a fantastic place to spend an autumn day. It’s home to an incredible array of animals, from majestic big cats to playful primates and colourful birds. You can wander through 128 acres of diverse habitats, each designed to mimic the animals' natural environments. Think lush rainforests, mysterious caves, and wide-open plains – it’s quite the adventure.

This autumn, Chester Zoo is putting on a special event that runs for two weeks. It features some really cool giant pumpkin sculptures, storytelling sessions that are meant to be quite enchanting, and plenty of activities for the whole family to get involved with as you explore the zoo. It's a great way to add a bit of seasonal fun to your visit.

Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• See animals from all over the world.

• Explore themed zones like the Rainforest Adventure and the African Savannah.

• Enjoy the special seasonal decorations and activities.

A visit here offers a chance to connect with wildlife and learn more about conservation efforts. It’s a really worthwhile experience for all ages.

It’s a brilliant way to get out and about this autumn, offering a bit of excitement and education all rolled into one. Make sure to check their website for the exact dates of the autumn event and plan your trip to Chester Zoo.

Wrap Up Your Autumn Adventures

So there you have it, a whole heap of ideas to keep you busy as the weather gets a bit cooler. It’s easy to just want to stay in when it’s dark early, but Manchester really does have something for everyone this autumn. Whether you’re after a crisp walk in the park, a bit of culture at an art fair, or a spooky Halloween thrill, you’ve got plenty of options. Don’t let the season pass you by – get out there and enjoy it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I go for a nice autumn walk in Manchester?

There are loads of great places for a walk when the leaves change colour! Alexandra Park in Oldham is lovely, and Chorlton Water Park is perfect for a stroll by the water. If you're in the city, a walk through Castlefield and along the canal will show you some pretty autumn sights too.

What kind of Halloween events are happening?

Manchester gets really into Halloween! You can find spooky events and festivals, sometimes with parades and fun for families. Keep an eye out for 'Halloween in the City' for street events and maybe even some haunted attractions like Scare City if you're feeling brave.

Are there any fun places for kids to pick pumpkins?

Absolutely! Many farms, like Kenyon Hall Farm, have pumpkin patches where you can pick your own pumpkin. It's a classic autumn activity that kids usually love, and often there are other seasonal treats available too.

What theatre shows can I see this autumn?

Manchester has a great theatre scene. You can catch musicals like 'Sunny Afternoon' or 'Fiddler on the Roof' at the Palace Theatre. The Opera House has shows like 'Acorn Antiques the Musical', and the Royal Exchange Theatre often has interesting plays, so it's worth checking their schedules.

Where can I get a good Sunday roast in Manchester?

Lots of pubs and restaurants serve up delicious Sunday roasts. You can find places offering everything from traditional roasts with Yorkshire puddings to more unique options. It's a cosy way to spend a Sunday afternoon when it's chilly outside.

Are there any special autumn treats I should try?

Definitely! Bakeries often create special autumn and Halloween-themed treats, like pumpkin pastries or spooky bakes. You might also find places offering seasonal doughnuts, like apple crumble ones, which are a real treat.