As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air becomes crisp, autumn in Essex brings with it an abundance of family-friendly activities and events. This autumn season offers the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones, whether it's picking the perfect pumpkin, wandering through apple orchards, or enjoying festive Halloween celebrations. The countryside comes alive with vibrant colors, and local wineries provide a peaceful escape for parents to enjoy the flavors of the season. From cozy autumn traditions to exciting outdoor adventures, Essex has something magical to offer every family this autumn.
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Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Pumpkin picking is one of the best ways to celebrate the autumn season, and Essex has some amazing spots to choose from. Whether you're looking for the perfect pumpkin to set on your doorway this autumn season or just want a picturesque day out with the family, these patches have it all:
Cammas Hall Farm
Opens October 5th
A delightful spot for families, Cammas Hall Farm offers more than just pumpkin picking. You can participate in autumn workshops like wreath-making while sipping on hot mulled cider or wine on October 11th and their Blooms and Gourds Workshop on October 17th is a must for those looking to craft a beautiful floral pumpkin centerpiece. And for a fun day out with the family, try the 7-acre dinosaur-themed maze or experience it after dark for an extra thrill!
Location: Hatfield Broad Oak, Hertfordshire, CM22 7JT
Website: https://www.cammashall.co.uk/
Pumpkin Picking Village
Open September 27th - October 31st
With endless pumpkins, gourds, and squashes, this is the perfect spot to find your seasonal treasures. Don’t forget to pre-book your tickets online to save!
Location: South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP
Hatter’s Farm
Open October 5th - 31st
Known for its impressive variety—over 75 different types of pumpkins and squash—Hatter's Farm also offers unique photo opportunities and a haunted madhouse! Looking for something spookier? Visit during their Pumpkin Nights for an enchanting moonlit experience.
Location: Takeley, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 6NP
Website: https://hattersfarmpumpkins.co.uk/
Go Apple Picking
Nothing beats the simple joy of filling a basket with freshly picked apples. Essex’s apple orchards offer a wholesome day out for the entire family, with plenty of delicious varieties to choose from. Here are two local spots perfect for an apple-picking adventure:
Lathcoats Farm
Head over to Galleywood for a relaxing day in the orchards as apple-picking season gets into full swing. When you're done, enjoy a homemade treat at The Bee Shed Coffee House.
Address: Beehive Lane, Galleywood, CM2 8LX
Daymens Hill Farm
Open from early September to mid-October, this farm in Maldon offers pick-your-own apples and pears, along with fresh sweet corn and potatoes. It’s the perfect place to gather ingredients for your autumn feasts.
Address: Tolleshunt Major, Maldon, CM9 8JZ
Attend a Autumn Festival or Fair
If your family loves a bit of Halloween fun, Essex’s autumn festivals are sure to delight. From spooky train rides to crafting spells at the zoo, these events are packed with thrills and memories waiting to be made.
Halloween Festival at Clacton Pier
Open October 26th - November 3rd
This spine-tingling festival features pumpkin carving, the haunted Misery Mansion, and even a creepy crawly cabin for the little thrill-seekers in your family.
Address: Clacton Pier, Essex, CO15 1QX
Shriek Week at Colchester Zoo
Open October 26th - November 3rd
From magical crafts with witches to a scare school where kids learn the art of being spooky, Colchester Zoo’s Shriek Week is perfect for families who love Halloween with a side of animals.
Address: Maldon Rd, Stanway, Colchester CO3 0SL
Halloween Special at Audley End Miniature Railway
Open October 26th - November 3rd
Jump aboard the Halloween Express for a ride through the eerie woods, then explore the Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk. With activities like potion making and Halloween-themed photo ops, it’s a fun yet gentle spook for even the youngest family members.
Address: Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB
Check Out a Local Winery
For a more relaxing autumn escape, why not visit one of Essex’s beautiful local wineries? Enjoy a peaceful afternoon sampling the season’s finest wines and touring the beautiful vineyards amidst the colorful countryside.
Bardfield Vineyard at Great Lodge
With the vineyard shop open Monday through Friday from 10 to 4 pm, you’ll have the chance to sample a selection of wines and discover the perfect bottle to take home for a cozy autumn dinner. Or, if you’re craving a peaceful escape, why not spend the afternoon strolling through the vineyard on a self-guided tour, soaking in the beauty of the landscape while learning about the vines that make it so special? It’s the perfect way to embrace the season’s charm.
Website: https://www.greatlodge.co.uk/
New Hall Vineyards
Enjoy a self guided tour along the vineyard trail and try samples in their cellar door shop. Open Monday - Friday from 9-4.
Website: https://www.newhallwines.com/
2024 Essex Autumn Family Activities and Events
Autumn in Essex offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy family time, embrace seasonal traditions, and create beautiful memories together. From pumpkin patches and apple picking to festive Halloween celebrations and scenic winery visits, there’s something for everyone. And don't forget—these activities are the perfect backdrop for capturing family photos!
If you're looking to document these cherished moments, now is the perfect time to book an autumn photography session. Let me help you preserve the magic of autumn with a personalized, heartwarming family shoot. Contact me today to schedule your session or learn more!
For more inspiration and helpful tips, feel free to check out some of my other blog posts. You’ll find ideas on how to make the most of your session, what to wear, and fun ways to create lasting memories with your family during every season.
If you’re looking for an Essex or Brentwood family photographer, take a look at my Portfolio here and contact me to start chatting about your ideal photoshoot.
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Zee Gunchev is a luxury family photographer based in Essex, with a passion for capturing authentic, heartfelt moments. With years of experience in lifestyle photography, she creates timeless images filled with soft, dreamy tones and natural light, preserving memories that families can cherish for years to come. Her effortless style and genuine connection with her clients make her a trusted choice for families wanting to beautifully document life’s most precious milestones.
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