Every day that I walk along the orange-hued canopy of Jawbone Walk while listening to All Too Well (Taylor’s Version) (10-Minute Version), the tensions associated with midterm season somehow lift from my shoulders.
As a final year student, I have become acutely aware that this might just be my final Edinburgh autumn (for now). Rather than letting this sad prospect get in the way of enjoying my favourite season, I have decided to compile a list of activities I would like to complete in the upcoming weeks of this semester. These are either things I have enjoyed doing in the past or want to do at least once before I graduate.
Here are some of the activities I’ve got in my calendar for the upcoming weeks:
1. The Royal Botanic Gardens
A short bus ride from Princes St will take you directly to the East Entrance, where you can immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s autumn foliage. As you make your way westward through the gardens, don’t forget to go to the West entrance building which is where the plant shop is located. You can’t go to the Botanic Gardens without treating yourself to a little plant!
2. Cinnamon buns
No autumn bucket list is complete without a seasonal bake, if you ask me. My personal choice for an autumnal pastry would be cinnamon buns. So, after a failed baking experiment (or two), I decided to leave it up to the professionals. After tasting a fair few contenders, I declare a tie between Söderberg and Origin Cafe for my top cinnamon bun recommendations for you.
3. Pumpkin patch
Just 20 mins outside of Edinburgh by car (also accessible by public transport) lies Craigie’s Farm – the ultimate autumnal day trip destination. From “pick your own” pumpkins to a haystack maze, it’s a day packed full of seasonal activities. Finish it all off at Cragie’s Cafe and Deli where you can enjoy a sweet treat or a pumpkin spice latte!
4. Doodles Ceramics
Pottery painting can be done any day of the year but I’d argue that this is the best time for such a cosy evening activity. Additionally, Doodles has expanded their range for this season to include pumpkin shaped pots and plates. All in all, the perfect autumn activity in my book!
Tip: If it’s all booked up or if you don’t work well under time pressure you can order one of their make-at-home kits!
5. Uplands Roast hot chocolate
Another sweet-treat related entry! The moment the leaves begin to turn orange is the perfect time for your first cosy beverage of the season. Pumpkin Spice Lattes are also a prime choice but there’s something about savouring the marshmallow topped sweet drink while strolling around The Meadows that makes this a quintessentially Edinburgh activity after a long day at uni.
These are just a few of the seasonal activities that have made their way onto my ‘Edinburgh autumn bucket list’. As I slowly make my way through the checkboxes, I am also searching for inspiration for my winter one. Stay tuned!
Images provided by Julia Twardzisz.