Somerset Council’s Green Estates Team is inviting people of all ages to embrace the season with a packed programme of autumn events across its country parks, nature reserves and woodlands.
From campfire storytelling and bushcraft to fungi foraging, photography walks and forest school fun, there are opportunities to connect with nature, learn new skills, get creative and make lasting family memories.
Taking place at Ham Hill Country Park, Chard Reservoir Local Nature Reserve, Wilstock & Stockmoor Country Park near Bridgwater, and Netherclay Community Woodland in Taunton, the events offer opportunities to connect with nature, learn new skills, get creative and make lasting family memories.
Somerset Council’s Community Ranger Edd Chilcott said:
“Autumn is one of the most rewarding times of year to get outdoors. Whether you’re toasting marshmallows around a fire, learning about fungi, improving your photography skills or enjoying a family adventure in nature, there’s something for everyone.
“Our events are designed to help people connect with Somerset’s amazing green spaces and create lasting memories together.”
Autumn Adventures at Ham Hill Country Park (TA14 6RW)
Tales of Bravery and Triumph
Wednesday 28 October, 4pm to 5.30pm
Free, booking essential.
Enjoy a cosy afternoon of storytelling featuring stories written by participants. Share your own tale, explore local history and legends, or create a story inspired by Ham Hill itself. Hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows will round off the experience. Delivered in partnership with Yeovil’s Tea and Poetry Group.
Fire-lighting and Charcoal Making
Friday 30 October, 1pm to 3pm
£6.50 per child. Ages 7 to 11. Booking essential.
Learn the traditional outdoor skill of fire-lighting, try your hand at making charcoal and create autumn-inspired artwork to take home.
Autumn Wildlife and Creativity at Chard Reservoir (TA20 1HU)
Fungi Foray
Thursday 15 October, 11am to 2.30pm
£25. Adults only. Booking essential.
Join local fungi expert Dr David Allen and the ranger team to explore the reservoir’s diverse habitats and learn about the fascinating world of fungi. The event concludes with wild mushrooms on toast.
Photography Walk
Friday 16 October, 12.30pm to 3pm
£12. Adults only. Booking essential.
Bring a camera or smartphone and enjoy a guided photography walk with local artist Carolyn Lefley. Gain practical tips while capturing the seasonal beauty of the reserve and learning about its wildlife. You will also have access to the waterside bird hide where you may be lucky enough to photograph a kingfisher or Great Crested Grebes.
Autumnfest
Tuesday 27 October, 10am to 1pm
Free for all ages. Drop in. No booking required.
Celebrate the season with a fun-filled programme of apple pressing, wacky raft racing, autumn-themed crafts, marshmallow toasting, traditional games and wildlife activities.
Family Fun at Wilstock & Stockmoor Country Park (TA6 6GG)
Apple Day
Sunday 18 October, 1pm to 4pm
Free for all ages. Drop in. No booking required.
Join the Friends of Wilstock & Stockmoor Country Park and the ranger team for an afternoon of apple pressing, marshmallow toasting, autumn crafts, have-a-go scything, bug hotel building and preparations for a new tree nursery.
A Taste of Forest School
Monday 26 October, 10.30am to 12 noon
£6.50 per child. Ages 3 to 7. Booking essential.
Perfect for children aged 3 to 7, this forest school-style session includes bug hunting, crafts, bushcraft activities and campfire marshmallows.
Family Forest Fun at Netherclay Community Woodland (TA1 5AB)
Thursday 29 October, 1.30pm to 3.30pm
£6.50 per child. Ages 4 to 10. Booking essential.
Explore the woodland at its most colourful and enjoy an afternoon of den building, bug hunting, bushcraft activities and marshmallow toasting around the fire.
Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, Environment and Climate Change, Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts said:
“Our country parks, nature reserves and community woodlands are some of Somerset’s greatest assets, and these events provide a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy them. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, spend quality time with family or simply enjoy the beauty of nature in autumn, there’s an event for you.”
From discovering fascinating fungi and wildlife to enjoying storytelling, crafts and campfires, there’s something to inspire visitors of all ages this autumn. Early booking is recommended for ticketed events as places are limited.
Many events require advance booking and places are limited. Full details and booking information can be found on the Discover Wild Somerset events page.
