From nature photography to a local weekly 5k run, we check out the best accessible outdoor hobbies to enjoy this autumn
As the leaves start to turn and the summer crowds disappear, autumn becomes one of the nicest times of year to spend time outdoors. Crisp mornings, colourful trees and cooler temperatures make it easier to enjoy the fresh air without battling the heat.
Time spent in nature reduces stress, improves mood and boosts confidence, plus regular movement – whatever that looks like for you – can improve cardiovascular health, sleep quality and energy levels.
Thankfully, you don’t need expensive equipment, specialist skills or peak fitness to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have limited mobility, live with a chronic health condition, or want a new way to spend your free time, there are plenty of hobbies that are accessible, affordable and easy to continue throughout the year.
WALK AND ROLL
Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, and it doesn’t have to mean tackling steep hills or going on long hikes. A gentle stroll through your local park or a wander by the coast can be just as rewarding. And autumn offers something different every week, from fiery red leaves to migrating birds and misty mornings.
Many nature reserves, country parks and forests offer routes with firm surfaces, accessible toilets and disabled parking. Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans) is improving access to the National Cycle Network by removing or redesigning every physical barrier. Visit their website to find Paths for Everyone, and see where your nearest route takes you. In England and Wales, mobility scooter users can join Disabled Ramblers on accessible rambles. They also offer a database featuring hundreds of ramble routes for all, from Penrose in Cornwall to Craster in Northumberland.
GLOBAL TREASURE HUNT
Geocaching is a global treasure hunt that gamifies the great outdoors. There are more than three million cleverly hidden containers called geocaches all over the world, just waiting to be found via coordinates listed on the geocaching app. They contain a log for you to sign, along with trinkets that can be swapped for the next person to find, or trackables you can move to another geocache. Some geocaches are more accessible than others – many locations are ranked for accessibility on handicaching.com.
If you’re looking to up the pace and want a sociable hobby, why not try parkrun? You don’t have to run – you can walk, jog, or roll five kilometres at your local parkrun every Saturday morning. Each week, more than 250,000 people take part in parkrun events in 1,300 locations across the UK. There’s even a 2km event for kids – junior parkrun.
DO A RUNNER
There’s no time limit, so you can go as fast or slow as you like, and parkrun is free – register once online, take your barcode each week, and you’re ready to go. Assistance dogs are welcome, many of the routes are fully accessible, and volunteers are on hand with encouragement.
Research by parkrun partner Specsavers found that nearly a third of people with support needs want to do parkrun events. A pilot project is addressing the barriers that prevent people from feeling like they belong at the weekly meet-ups, to help more people make it to the start line and encourage a sense of community. Participant Fiona, who has hearing loss, says: “The idea of turning up in an environment where I am alone can be overwhelming and has kept me from attending previously. I’m looking forward to seeing how the pilot helps people like me find our stride at parkrun.”
Whether your goal is improving your fitness levels, meeting new people, or simply getting out of the house on a Saturday morning, parkrun offers a friendly community atmosphere where everyone is celebrated, regardless of speed.
GET SNAPPY
If you love being outdoors but aren’t keen on breaking a sweat, why not consider nature photography? You don’t need an expensive camera – most smartphones take excellent photos. And autumn is one of the best seasons to start – dramatic skies, golden leaves, berries, fungi and wildlife offer endless subjects, even in your local neighbourhood.
Photography can be a mindful activity too, since it encourages you to slow down and notice details you might otherwise miss. You may find yourself spotting birds, insects or interesting plants while searching for the perfect photograph – it may even lead to an additional new hobby, like birdwatching. As the seasons change, your photos will evolve too, from frosty winter landscapes to spring blooms and summer wildlife. Get your snaps printed, or turn them into a calendar to enjoy all year.
HARVEST TIME
Talking of flowers, you might like to get involved in a community gardening project this autumn: many offer raised beds and accessible pathways. You could find yourself planting spring bulbs, harvesting autumn veggies, or preparing the ground for winter – as well as benefiting from gentle physical activity and getting to know new people.
Gardening can reduce stress, improve mood and increase feelings of wellbeing. Community garden projects also help combat loneliness, and it’s a hobby you can enjoy in every season, providing enjoyment and connection all year round.
So, what are you waiting for? Wrap up warm and get ready to embrace the great outdoors with a new, accessible hobby that will boost your wellbeing in every season.