How to make the most of autumn days on campus

With autumn underway and the trees on campus turning shades of red and gold, it’s a beautiful time to get outside and explore. Undergraduate student Amelia shares how she makes the most of this season — from peaceful woodland walks to visiting local gems beyond campus.

Take an autumnal stroll

During the colder autumn months, going outside can often seem like a chore, but it’s so important to get fresh air and keep active. To make it easier, there are so many beautiful places to explore on campus, even more so in autumn. One of my favourite spots is Gibbet Hill Wood. Away from the hustle and bustle of the piazza, it offers a peaceful woodland area to take a stroll by yourself or with friends. Every time you visit, you will discover something different, from new paths, to new locations, and you’ll really appreciate autumn when you start to see the leaves change colour on all the trees. Take time out from your studies to rest and reset; giving yourself a breather from your course is so important when we get to the middle of term and really boosts your mood. So, wrap up warm and take yourself on a mindful walk!

Keep an eye out for events on campus

Campus is buzzing in the autumn months and there’s always something going on. Make sure to follow Warwick SU on Instagram as this is the easiest way to find out what’s on every week. Keep an eye out for Halloween socials, autumn crafts and everything else that happens on campus. Also look out for events run by the Student Experience and Engagement team at WBS. They will post events on my.wbs which you can sign up to. My favourite event last year was the therapy dogs visit—I definitely recommend looking out for this one as it gets booked up quickly! 

Try an autumn special at curiositea

To really get you in the spirit of autumn, treat yourself to a weekly special from curiositea. With new items every week on top of their regular menu, you’ll definitely find something you like the sound of. It’s a great, cosy spot to meet up with friends for a catch up and take a break from everything else that’s going on. It’s also a great place to grab a sweet treat at the end of a long week! 

Take time away from campus

When it gets to the middle of term taking a short break away from campus at the weekend can be a fun change of tune. Whether that's getting the bus to Leamington or taking a train somewhere a little further, it's a great way to explore the surrounding area. In the autumn months one of my favourite activities is strolling through the Sunday market in Leamington Spa. With lots of art and craft stalls to look through, it's a nice way to get some fresh air in the cooler months. If you want to go a little further, this year Birmingham Christmas market opens on the 1st of November! Only a short train journey away, this is a great way to get into the festive spirit with your friends.

Watch the sunrise/sunset

There are so many good spots on campus to take some time out and watch the sunrise/sunset. One of my favourites is Windmill Hill by the Sports Hub where you can really appreciate the view. Whether you are just walking back from a lecture and catch it in passing or want to make it an event with friends, appreciating the sunset is an easy way to clear your head. Grab a warm drink with your friends, take a moment to appreciate the scene, and of course, grab those all-important term 1 pictures!