Exploring England’s Outdoors: How to Boost Your Mental Wellbeing This Autumn

BY Natasha Bailey ON 07 October, 2025

Every year on 10 October, the world comes together to mark World Mental Health Day, a chance to raise awareness, encourage conversation, and remind ourselves that looking after our minds is just as important as looking after our bodies.

One simple but powerful way to support your mental health is to step outside. Spending time in nature – whether that’s a short walk around the block or a weekend hike – can lower stress, improve mood, and help you feel more connected to the world around you.

Here are some ideas to inspire you to get outdoors and feel better:

Making the Most of the Outdoors

• Start Small – Ten minutes of fresh air during your lunch break can be surprisingly restorative.

• Be Present – Pause to notice the colours of autumn leaves, the sound of birdsong, or the scent of the air.

• Move with Intention – Whether it’s a brisk walk, gentle cycling, or yoga in the park, movement outdoors helps release endorphins.

• Combine with Connection – Invite a friend, join a walking group, or simply chat with someone you meet on a trail.

• Build it Into Your Routine – Consistency matters. Treat your outdoor time as an essential part of your wellbeing toolkit.

Activities to Try

• Morning or evening walks through your local neighbourhood.

• Picnics in the park, even in cooler weather with a flask of tea.

• Weekend hikes to explore new scenery.

• Gardening or planting herbs – even a windowsill garden can be uplifting.

• Outdoor mindfulness – find a quiet spot, sit still, and breathe deeply.

Autumn Visits

Looking for places that truly shine in October? Here are some highlights:

• The Lake District, Cumbria
  Autumn paints the fells in gold, orange, and deep red. Walk around Derwentwater or take the trail to Tarn Hows, where reflections of fiery trees shimmer in the water.

• Peak District, Derbyshire
  Trails like Padley Gorge are stunning this time of year, with tumbling streams framed by ancient woodland glowing with autumn colour.

• South Downs National Park, Sussex & Hampshire
  October skies are crisp and clear, making the rolling chalk hills perfect for long walks. The Devil’s Dyke viewpoint offers sweeping autumn vistas.

• Epping Forest, Essex
  Just outside London, Epping Forest becomes a sea of russet and amber in October – a great spot for a quick escape into nature.

• New Forest, Hampshire
  The landscape comes alive in autumn, with roaming ponies among golden bracken and ancient oak trees. October is also fungi season, making woodland walks fascinating.

• Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire
  The waterfalls at Aysgarth or Hardraw Force look particularly striking after autumn rains, framed by trees at their most colourful.

• Cornish Coast, Cornwall
  The sea air is sharp and refreshing in autumn, with fewer crowds on the South West Coast Path. Dramatic cliffs and quieter beaches make October walks special.

• Kew Gardens, London
  An accessible option for city dwellers. October highlights include the Japanese Garden and the sweeping views of fiery foliage from the treetop walkway.

Essential Gear 

Footwear

• Hunter Original Chelsea Boots – Classic waterproof boots that slip on easily, perfect for muddy paths or city streets after the rain.

• Aigle Boots – Sturdy yet affordable wellingtons, ideal for wet grass, puddles, and longer country walks.

Jackets and Outerlayers

• Barbour Men’s Winter Spoonbill Waterproof Jacket
  A rugged waterproof shell built for serious weather. This is your go-to when rain and wind are in the forecast — ideal for slippery paths, forest walks, or coastal trail days. Pair with a fleece mid-layer for colder outings.

• Snow Peak Light Mountain Cloth Zip‑Up Parka
  Lightweight and versatile, this parka offers protection without bulk. It’s great for layering and gives you flexibility — wear over a sweater or under a tougher shell when conditions demand.

• Spoonyard MA‑1 Padded Bomber Jacket
  A padded, casual style that bridges the gap between functional and streetwear. Use this on dryer autumn days or as a warm mid-layer under a rain shell. It adds insulation without feeling heavy.

Jumpers and Mid Layers

• First Down Bubble Down Vest — This sleeveless insulated vest is perfect over a long-sleeve tee or under a shell jacket. It gives core warmth without restricting arm movement — ideal for layering in transitional weather.

• Swazi “The Hood” Fleece  — A fleece hoodie is a go-to mid layer. Cozy, breathable, and easy to wear on its own in milder conditions or under a jacket when it’s colder.

• Barbour Larkhill Crew Neck Sweatshirt — A classic crew sweatshirt from Barbour — smart enough for casual everyday wear, yet functional enough to sit well under a field jacket or shell.

• Parajumpers K2 Crew Neck Sweatshirt  — Slightly heavier and structured, this sweatshirt gives a bit more insulation. Use it as your “warm layer” in cooler autumn weather when conditions aren’t extreme.

• Belstaff Logo Sweatshirt — Stylish yet practical, this sweatshirt adds a little heritage flair. Good as the outer knit in dry, crisp conditions.

• Snow Peak Recycled Heavy Cotton T‑Shirt  — Not a heavy sweater, but a heavier cotton T-shirt makes a solid base or “light mid” layer. On a mild autumn day it might even suffice on its own beneath a gilet or shell.

Accessories 

• First Down Bubble Down Muffler Scarf – Cosy and insulated, a scarf that makes chilly walks much more comfortable.

• Topologie Wares Bottle Sacoche Bag — A compact, padded bag that’s ideal for carrying your water bottle, small essentials, or snack items. Lightweight and stylish, it slips into your outer layers without bulk.

• Belstaff Watch Gloves — These touchscreen-compatible gloves let you use your phone or watch without exposing your hands to the cold. Great for autumn walks when you still need access to your device.

• Paul Smith Ivan Stripe Scarf — A classic scarf with a touch of personality. Adds extra warmth around your neck and works beautifully under coats or jackets.

• Orbitkey Crazy Horse Leather Key Organiser — Keeps your keys compact and silent (no jingling) — very helpful when you’re hiking, walking, or exploring and want to avoid distractions.

• Barbour Fleece Wellington Boot Socks — Thick, warm socks made for wearing with wellington boots. They give extra insulation and comfort on damp or cold terrain.

Make time to get outdoors this October – whether in a local park or a national treasure. Autumn offers beauty, peace, and perspective that can nourish both body and mind.