Autumn Events Hampshire | Halloween in Hampshire
In Summary…
Autumn in Hampshire is a good excuse to get out and explore. The trees turn golden, pumpkin patches open their gates and attractions across the county put on Halloween events for all ages. Whether you fancy a walk through the New Forest, a day out with the children during October half term or an evening watching the fireworks, there is plenty happening over the next few weeks.
Autumn in Hampshire means the leaves are changing, the walks are picturesque, pumpkin-based treats are readily available, and kids are traipsing the streets in search of chocolate and sweets. There’s so much to do, and with the school holidays on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to do it.
Here are some of the best autumn events Hampshire for 2026, along with places to see the autumn colours and a few ideas for making the most of the season.
The Best Places to See the Autumn Colour in Hampshire
Autumn is one of the best times to explore Hampshire’s gardens, woodland and countryside. The trees change colour, the paths fill with fallen leaves, and familiar walking routes look completely different.
Of course, we can never truly predict the weather, especially this close to the coast, but late October and early November are when we love to explore the local woodlands and look for autumn colour in Hampshire.
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Ampfield
Just outside Romsey, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for autumn colour. Its extensive arboretum contains thousands of trees and shrubs, with seasonal displays that bring reds, yellows and golds to the gardens.
There is plenty of space to wander at your own pace, making it a good option for a relaxed autumn afternoon. There are also plenty of events throughout the season, with Halloween-based activities like pumpkin carving and seasonal drawing classes.
The New Forest
The New Forest is hard to beat for a proper autumn walk. Head beneath the trees along the Tall Trees Trail near Rhinefield, where impressive redwoods and Douglas firs create a dramatic woodland setting. For something different, Bolderwood is known for its deer-watching area and walking routes.
Autumn is also the deer rutting season, so you may hear stags calling as you explore. There are clearly marked paths throughout, so you can explore and watch nature with peace of mind.
Mottisfont, near Romsey
Mottisfont is a beautiful, large estate with sweeping gardens, woodland paths and riverside scenery. Its collection of plane trees gives the estate a particularly picturesque autumn display, while the paths beside the River Test provide a quieter way to enjoy the season.
It also has plenty to explore for the whole family, with a bookshop and a plant shop if you’re already planning your Christmas shopping, as well as a café and plenty of picnic space.
Itchen Valley Country Park
For something closer to home around Chandler’s Ford and Eastleigh, Itchen Valley Country Park is well worth a look at this time of year. Its woodland and nature trails offer a great way to spend some time outdoors.
On top of the usual things to do, like Go Ape and the play areas, there are some exciting events, like Fiends, Flames and Folklore, an evening of fire juggling and toasted marshmallows (thankfully, not at the same time), and Halloween at Itchen Valley, which offers a mysterious and spooky night of wonder for the whole family.
Halloween Events in Hampshire
Halloween brings some of the busiest autumn events in Hampshire, with everything from family-friendly trails to after-dark attractions. There are just as many thrills for the family as there are enthralling nights for adults. It’s just a matter of seeking them out!
Paultons Park Halloween Spooktacular
Paultons Park is a familiar favourite for families, and its Halloween Spooktacular returns in 2026, this time with a Nordic theme. Valgard, the realm of the Vikings, is a far cry from Peppa Pig World. This Halloween Spooktacular runs until 2 November 2026.
It is also home to the Ghostly Manor, an interactive ride, and the Little Monsters Ball and The Great Halloween Mystery, stage shows intended to intrigue, excite and frighten.
Witches of Watercress Woods, The Watercress Line
The Watercress Line is putting a Halloween twist on its heritage railway with Witches of Watercress Woods, running from 29 to 31 October 2026.
This family experience brings a spooky fairytale atmosphere to the railway, with magical mischief and Halloween-themed fun. For adults who prefer something considerably scarier, the railway is also running its Halloween Horror Train on the same dates. That one is strictly for over-18s, so expect a Halloween-themed jaunt through the Hampshire countryside. And at £4.50 a pint, you can’t say fairer than that.
Halloween Family Fun at Hinton Ampner
Hinton Ampner near Alresford is combining Halloween activities with its autumn displays. Running until 1 November, families can explore the grounds, where there are hundreds of pumpkins to see around the beautiful gardens, as well as plenty of games for the whole family. From broom racing to tossing “eyeballs” into a bubbling cauldron, there’s plenty for kids and kids at heart to enjoy while living out their Hogwarts fantasies.
We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt at Mottisfont
For younger children, Mottisfont’s We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt adventure runs until 1 November 2026. Inspired by the popular children’s books, the trail invites little visitors to search for hidden ghosts and take part in Halloween-themed activities around the grounds.
Owl-O-Ween at Hawk Conservancy Trust
Owl-O-Ween offers something more than just a terrific pun. It’s a little different from the usual Halloween trail. Taking place on 29 and 30 October 2026, the event gives visitors the chance to experience a Halloween evening centred around owls and birds of prey.
The Trust is also running its Spooky Owl Week over half term, from 24 October to 1 November.
Pumpkin Picking in Hampshire
Pumpkin picking has become one of the season’s most popular family activities. Whether you are after a pumpkin to carve, somewhere for autumn photographs or a full day out, there are several options around Hampshire.
Things to Do in Hampshire During October Half Term
If you are looking for autumn half-term Hampshire activities, there is plenty to choose from beyond Halloween itself. A woodland walk, a day at a heritage attraction or a seasonal garden visit can all make a good day out.
Here are a few more ideas to add to the list.
- Explore the New Forest. Choose a short woodland walk or spend longer exploring the forest paths and villages.
- Visit Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Look out for autumn displays and family activities running during the school holidays.
- Take the children to Mottisfont. The Halloween ghost trail offers a seasonal activity for younger visitors.
- Visit Hinton Ampner. Combine the pumpkin displays and Halloween games with a walk around the estate.
- Try a day on the railway. The Watercress Line’s Halloween experiences run from 29 to 31 October.
Bonfire Night and Fireworks Displays in Hampshire
Autumn does not end with Halloween. Bonfire Night brings another chance to get together with friends and family, with organised displays taking place across the county.
Utilita Bowl Fireworks Spectacular
The Utilita Bowl Fireworks Spectacular is scheduled for Friday 6 November 2026. The event includes a fireworks display, fairground attractions, food and family entertainment.
It is a good option for a larger organised event. Check the ticket and travel information before you go, particularly if you are planning to attend with children.
Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks
Winchester’s Bonfire and Fireworks event takes place on Saturday 7 November 2026 at North Walls Recreation Ground. The evening includes a torchlit procession through the city, a bonfire and a fireworks display.
The organisers advise visitors to arrive early, as city-centre roads and parking can be busy. Check the event website for ticket details, timings and travel advice.
Best Bike Rides This Autumn
A bike ride is another way to make the most of the cooler weather and changing countryside. If you are searching for bike rides in Hampshire, there are plenty of options, from quieter country lanes to traffic-free paths and longer routes through the South Downs.
The Meon Valley Trail
The Meon Valley Trail follows a former railway line through the countryside between West Meon and Wickham. The route stretches for around 11 miles and offers a largely traffic-free way to explore the area.
It is worth checking the route and surface conditions before setting off, particularly after wet weather.
New Forest cycling routes
The New Forest has a network of cycling routes through woodland, heathland and open countryside. Autumn can be a particularly good time to visit, with seasonal colour and quieter stretches away from the busiest summer days.
Plan your route in advance, follow local cycling guidance and take care around ponies, cattle and other wildlife.
Test Valley cycling routes
For a ride through traditional Hampshire countryside, look at the cycling routes around the Test Valley. The area has quiet country lanes, villages and places to stop for a drink or something to eat along the way.
Choose a route that suits your experience and fitness level, and check the distance and terrain before leaving.
Making the Most of Autumn in Hampshire
One of the best things about autumn is that you do not need to book a big event to enjoy it. A walk through a local park, a trip to a pumpkin patch or an afternoon exploring one of Hampshire’s gardens can be enough to make the most of the season.
The weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts, wear suitable footwear for outdoor activities and confirm opening times before travelling. For ticketed events, booking ahead is usually sensible.
A Local Perspective
Autumn gives people plenty of reasons to explore Hampshire, from its woodland and countryside to the family attractions and events that return each year. Around Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh and the surrounding villages, there is plenty to enjoy without always needing to travel far.
At Rowe & Co, we think local knowledge is about more than knowing the property market. It is also about understanding the places people choose to live, the communities they become part of and what makes an area feel like home.
If exploring Hampshire has you thinking about a move, whether you are looking to buy locally or considering selling your current property, our team can help.
FAQ’s
What are the best autumn events in Hampshire in 2026?
Some of the highlights include Paultons Park’s Halloween Spooktacular, the Watercress Line’s Halloween events, pumpkin picking at local farms and organised Bonfire Night displays. Check each event’s official website for dates, tickets and availability.
Where can I see autumn colour in Hampshire?
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, the New Forest, Mottisfont and Itchen Valley Country Park are all worth visiting for autumn colour. Late October to mid-November is often a good time to see the leaves change, although the exact timing depends on the weather.
When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Hampshire?
Late October and early November are generally good times to look for autumn colour in Hampshire. Some trees change earlier or later, so it is worth checking local conditions before planning a visit.
Where can I go pumpkin picking in Hampshire?
Options include Droxford Pumpkin Patch, Rogate Pumpkin Patch and Sunnyfields Farm near Totton. Pumpkin-picking dates vary, and some sessions require advance booking, so check the farm’s website before travelling.
What is there to do in Hampshire during autumn half term?
For autumn half term in Hampshire, families can visit Halloween trails at attractions such as Mottisfont and Hinton Ampner, explore pumpkin patches, take a ride on the Watercress Line or enjoy a woodland walk in the New Forest. Check event dates carefully, as some activities run only on selected days.
Are there family-friendly Halloween events in Hampshire?
Yes. Paultons Park’s Halloween Spooktacular, the Watercress Line’s Witches of Watercress Woods and Mottisfont’s ghost-hunt trail offer seasonal options for families. Some Halloween events are designed for adults, so check age restrictions before booking.
Where can I watch Bonfire Night fireworks in Hampshire?
Options include the Utilita Bowl Fireworks Spectacular and Winchester’s Bonfire and Fireworks event. Check the organisers’ websites for confirmed timings, tickets, travel information and any changes to the programme.
Where are the best places for autumn bike rides in Hampshire?
The Meon Valley Trail, New Forest cycling routes and routes around the Test Valley offer different ways to explore Hampshire by bike. Check route distances, surfaces and conditions before setting off, particularly after wet weather.
Is autumn a good time to visit Hampshire?
Yes. Autumn brings changing woodland colours, pumpkin picking, Halloween attractions and organised fireworks displays. It is also a good season for countryside walks and cycling, although outdoor plans may need to take account of the weather.
What can I do in Hampshire on a rainy autumn day?
For wet-weather plans, look at indoor attractions, museums, heritage sites and family activities around Hampshire. Check opening times and seasonal programmes before visiting. For more ideas, see our guide to celebrating Christmas in Hampshire for inspiration as the festive season approaches.
