Go Big this Autumn
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, it's time to wrap up warm, swap ice creams for hot chocolates and enjoy everything the North East has to offer this autumn. From pumpkin patches and cosy cafés to spectacular fireworks displays, here are some of our favourite ways to make the most of the season.
Autumn Wreath Making
Are you looking to really get into the Autumnal spirit? Dive right in and get create with an autumnal wreath making class. Attend with friends, family or solo and hang your creation for all to see. It's the perfect way to welcome the season and add a touch of autumn to your home.
There are plenty of opportunities to give it a go across the region, including workshops at The Staiths Café, East Durham College and Revolución de Cuba, Newcastle.
Pumpkin Picking
Whether you're searching for the perfect carving pumpkin, entertaining the kids during half term, or picking ingredients for a homemade autumn soup, there are plenty of fantastic pumpkin patches to visit across the North East.
Herrington Village Pumpkin Patch takes place on Saturday October 17th from 11:00 - 15:00 and is free to attend, you can expect; pumpkin picking, games, food, arts, crafts, and fun costumes.
Grab a hot drink and a sweet treat
Crisp mornings, colourful leaves and a warm drink in hand. Is there a better combination?
Whether you're planning an autumn day out or simply looking for an excuse to indulge, here are some of our favourite spots across the North East.
Grant's Bakery, for anything and everything baked (try the luxury salted caramel tart - trust us!), in Corbridge
Pink Lane Bakery, for beautifully laminated pastries, found in; Jesmond, Newcastle, Gosforth and Morpeth.
Deep North, I don't think you can pick a bad donut (but you should always try the brown butter), found in Sunderland, Tynemouth and Ouseburn.
Savour Bakery, You can't really go wrong here (but you should definitely try their loaded croissants), found in Gateshead
Riverview Kitchen, Pancakes pancakes pancakes (also great options if you're vegetarians, vegan or gluten-free) found on the riverside in Durham
Oktoberfest
The North's biggest Bavarian party returns to Times Square this October. Join thousands of partygoers inside a huge traditional Bavarian beer hall, where overflowing steins, live Oompah bands, authentic German street food and non-stop entertainment combine to create one of the UK's most talked-about Oktoberfest experiences.
Whether it's your first visit or you're coming back for another year of mayhem, grab your mates, choose your date and get ready to say Prost!
Dates: 10th, 17th & 24th October 2026
Bonfire Night Celebrations
Wrap up warm and enjoy one of autumn's most spectacular traditions.
From community bonfires to breathtaking firework displays, there are fantastic events taking place right across the North East. Here are a couple of free family-friendly options:
A fantastic free family friendly event, with lots of delicious food stalls and a funfair!
31 October 2026, Fireworks at 7pm
Hexham Fireworks Display is one of Northumberland's most-loved free community events, bringing families, friends and neighbours together for an unforgettable evening in Sele Park.
7 November 2026, Fireworks at 7pm
Go Big This Autumn
Whether you're exploring a pumpkin patch, finding your next favourite bakery or heading out for fireworks with family and friends, leave the car at home and let us take you there.
Wherever you go this autumn, leave the car, take the bus. With Go North East, you can Go Big, then Go Home.
Adult single fares are just £2.50, under-21s travel for £1, and Kids Go Free throughout the October half-term holidays.