20 THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

September is well underway, although the heat wave we had over the past few days was very unexpected and I for one am glad it is (hopefully) over. We have put together a list of different ideas & events taking place over the month of September, all over the country. Ranging from pumpkin picking to garden shows – there is something for everyone. Let us know your September plans!

20 THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER

1. Rainy day weekend? Why not check out your local art gallery, give each child a notepad and some pens or pencils and get them to draw a picture in the style of their favourite piece!
2. Book tickets for any Halloween activities you’ve got your eye on – things are selling out quickly this year! If you are Manchester based we’ve booked pumpkin patch tickets for the lovely Kenyon Hall Farm but again, there’s limited slots left!
3. Anyone else still waiting for their Hogwarts letter? I’ve got no recommendations for a flying car, but a trip on The Hogwarts Express will keep you feeling magical.
4. Its not just summer that’s for festivals – Clapham Common hosts Colourscape Music Festival between the 11th-19th of September. It’s a music festival, inside an art installation – explore inflatable tunnels, immerse yourself in colour and sound. It’s a fully wheelchair accessible festival, and they also have ‘quiet’ days to make it even further accessible.
5. Join in with Roald Dahl Day on the 12th September. A much beloved author, why not celebrate Roald Dahl day by visiting the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre. They have just extended their ‘Imagining Fantastic Mr Fox’ exhibition throughout the month of September.
6. Pack up a picnic and get outside – the beach, the forest, even your garden and make the most of being able to sit outdoors whilst its still warm enough! When the weather starts cooling a must-have in our picnic basket is a thermos full of hot chocolate, perfect for both grown ups and little ones who need a warming pick-me-up.
7. Leaf Peeping! An American term for walking through the autumn woodland and enjoying the hues of the changing leaves. The further north in the UK you are the earlier the leaves will turn, so if you are based in Scotland expect some beautiful seasonal colours to start showing in the middle of this month.
8. Have a ‘Night Time Wildlife Adventure’ at Grange-Over-Sands in the Lake District. Perfect for older children, spend 3.5 hours learning about the nocturnal wildlife of the area. The night-vision goggles and bat-detectors will keep even the most tech-obsessed teens happy, and it’s a totally unique way to explore the outdoors.
9. Pumpkin spiced lattes might be back but instead of heading for the big chains why don’t you check out your local independent’s seasonal coffee offerings? @newgirlintoon recommends Kith and Kin for those of you living in the North East. The pumpkin spiced latte that they serve up features real pumpkin purée.
10. Try out a new recipe. September brings in a bountiful harvest of British grown fruit and veg. Beetroot, butternut squash and leeks provide inspiration for a veggie main course, whereas apples, damsons and plums cry out to be made into sumptuous desserts.
11. Maybe it’s not just the kids starting a new term this year? Are you needing to get organised for your own studies? If you’ve taken the plunge to start (or continue) some studying, here’s a fantastic article and some helpful tips to help balance studying alongside family life.
12. Make the most of any late summer days by getting outdoors to an adventure park. BeWILDerwood in Cheshire was recently reviewed by one of our mamas –  her family had a great time!
13. Become a ‘Professor of Palaeontology’ at Paradise Park in West Cornwall. In between visiting the wonderful wildlife and playing in the outdoor and indoor play areas you explore the grounds to find dinos and their eggs. Find all the dinosaurs, and answer the questions to be awarded a ‘Paradise Park Professor of Palaeontology’ certificate.

14 Calling all mini rock n’ roll-ers! Born to Be Wild Child, known for their family rock and roll parties are branching out with an event in Belgrave Hall, Leeds on the 25th September. There’s a rock star fancy dress competition, themed arts and crafts, balloon drop, face painting and of course the best DJ’s in town.

15. For our Scottish readers, Wigtown is hosting it’s annual book festival from the 22nd September – 4th October and the line up is fantastic! From picnics in the park for the littlest of book lovers through to stargazing walks and author-led discussions there’s something for everyone!
16. Want to see the biggest pumpkin in the patch? Harrogate Flower Show is home to masses of beautiful seasonal floral displays but also hosts the Northern Championships for the National Vegetable Society. Expect massive marrows, colossal cabbages and towering tomatoes galore!
17. Warwick Castle is currently hosting ‘The Falconer’s Quest’ – watch up to sixty birds of prey take to the skies amidst the beautiful settings of the castle grounds.
18. Another one for Roald Dahl fans – the Chocolate Museum in Brixton is hosting a Wonka Bar workshop on the 12th September. Everything from the type of chocolate, the shape and the packaging will be chosen by your child… and I imagine there will be a lot of taste-testing too!
19. Go foraging! Blackberries are in season, and the dark purple berries can be spotted in most hedgerows. Avoid picking berries from beside busy roads, instead seek out quieter spots away from pollution.
20. Join in with our autumn bucket list over on Instagram – more fun ideas to do with your family and document throughout the season!