October is a lovely month when the days are still relatively long, but there’s a crispness in the air and the foliage is glowing with rich colour. It is a pleasant time to get out and about in Wales, when the summer tourists have faded away but there’s still plenty to enjoy before the days turn shorter and colder.
Here are some perfect Welsh days out and events to enjoy this autumn. Look out for craft stalls where there’s a chance to pick up some special early Christmas gifts such as silver love spoon earrings and pendants, (which are available exclusively on our website).
Swansea Arts Weekend 4-6 October
Swansea Arts Weekend features a diverse range of shows and fun activities for all the family at venues across the city. It is a celebration of art, culture and craft from south Wales, and it will also feature international artists and platforms for new and emerging artists and performers.
Five of Swansea’s galleries and theatres, including Mission Gallery, Volcano Theatre, Elysium Gallery, Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, and Galerie Simpson will be taking part in the weekend, with multimedia exhibitions and performance art. Elsewhere, the Swansea Fringe will celebrate music, poetry, comedy and creative arts around the city.
October at Llys-y-Fran Lake & Visitor Centre, 26 October
This Autumn Food & Drink Fair is held at the popular Llys-y-Fran Lake venue near Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire. There will be a range of stalls selling seasonal treats such as deluxe chocolates, fine wines, gins and ales, craft cheeses, cakes, chutney, jams, and much more. The gift shop also sells books, toys, blankets, scarves and more.
If you want to combine browsing with some outdoor activity, there’s plenty of choice both on water or land. Take a stroll around the lake or go for a cycle ride, or even check out stress-busting axe throwing or archery. Hardy types can try open water swimming, sailing or other watersports.
Pumpkin Carving at Elan Valley, 23 and 30 October
If you have kids and are looking ahead for a half term activity to keep them busy, then check out the Pumpkin Carving event at Elan Valley. It’s a beautiful drive from any direction to the remote valley in mid Wales, and children accompanied by an adult can get creative with pumpkin carving at the Visitor Centre between 10 am and 12.30pm.
The Cambrian Mountain Food, Drink & Craft Fair, 26 October
Staying in the stunning Elan Valley, The Cambrian Mountain Food, Drink & Craft Fair takes place on Saturday 26 October. It is jam packed with wonderful locally sourced food and produce, such as whiskey, wool, and artisan chocolate.
The TV chef and author Nerys Howell will be hosting interactive cooking demonstrations, and there will be live performances from local musicians.
Mid Wales Autumn Fayre, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, 5-6 October
For a fun family day out, drop into the Mid Wales Autumn Fayre which takes place on 5 & 6 October at Builth Wells. As well as over 40 artisan food, drink and craft stalls, there will also be truck and classic vehicle displays.