20 FREE OR CHEAP THINGS TO DO WITH A BABY THIS AUTUMN

Autumn with a baby can be magical...golden leaves, cosy cafés, and fresh, crisp air. But, finding affordable things to do that don’t involve being soaked, frozen, or stuck inside all day can feel like a challenge.

We’ve rounded up 20 free or low-cost ideas to keep you and your little one happy, warm, and entertained all season, plus a few handy Cubbi Tips along the way to help you save even more.

1. GO LEAF-COLLECTING

Head to your local park or woodland and collect leaves in every shade of orange and red. Babies love watching them fall and crunching them in tiny hands.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Keep little ones snug and dry in their pram with footmuffs, liners, and covers from Natural Baby Shower, Cosatto, or Ickle Bubba, all with a Cubbi discount.

2. VISIT A GARDEN CENTRE

Most garden centres stay open year-round and are completely free to explore. Babies love the colours and smells, and you can usually sneak in a warm drink in the café afterwards.

3. EXPLORE A WOODLAND WALK

Nothing beats an autumn walk through crunchy leaves and golden light. The sounds, textures, and smells are perfect for your baby’s senses.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Make sure you’re kitted out in great waterproof clothing and footwear to keep the cold out. LANX has a fantastic range that’s stylish and practical — all with a Cubbi discount.

4. LIBRARY STORYTIME

Your local library is a haven on chilly days. Baby rhyme time and story sessions are usually free and a lovely way to meet other parents.

5. INDOOR CRAFT SESSION

When it’s pouring outside, bring the fun indoors. Think fabric scraps, paper, and finger painting.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Stock up on budget-friendly craft supplies from Hobbycraft through Cubbi for creative afternoons that won’t break the bank.

6. PUMPKIN PATCH OR APPLE PICKING

Many farms run autumn activities well into October. Even if baby’s too little to pick, they’ll love the sights, smells, and sounds.

7. FEED THE DUCKS

Wrap up warm and head to your local pond with oats or peas (not bread!). It’s simple, free, and always a hit.

8. HAVE A CAFÉ DATE

Pop out for a cosy hot chocolate or slice of cake — you deserve it. Many cafés are baby-friendly and happy to accommodate prams.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Save on your coffee catch-ups or lunches with Tastecard, available through Cubbi for big discounts on dining out.

9. SENSORY PLAY AT HOME

Create a mini autumn sensory tray with pinecones, scarves, ribbons, and leaves. Babies love exploring different textures.

10. BABY TASTER CLASSES

Many baby groups offer free or discounted trial sessions in autumn — from baby yoga to music and movement.

11. INDOOR PICNIC

Lay down a blanket, prep some snacks, and make a picnic in your living room. Add music or a storybook for an easy indoor adventure.

12. WINDOW SHOPPING ADVENTURE

Take a wander through your local high street or shopping centre. It’s dry, warm, and great for people-watching.

13. VISIT A MUSEUM OR GALLERY

Many museums have free weekday sessions or baby-friendly hours where you can explore without pressure.

14. RAINY DAY FORT BUILDING

Use cushions, blankets, and fairy lights to build your own indoor den. Babies love the sensory fun of crawling inside a cosy hideout.

15. JOIN A PARENT WALK OR MEETUP

Search local Facebook groups for pram walks or coffee meetups. It’s a great way to make friends and get some air...even when the weather’s unpredictable.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Keep baby cosy and dry with Cosatto’s range of Autmun style pram accessories, with a little Cubbi bonus - of course!

16. LOCAL FARM VISIT

Autumn farms often run family days with animals, tractor rides, and little cafés. Many offer off-peak entry deals, so check local listings.

17. BIRD WATCHING

Pop a bird feeder near a window and watch the wildlife with baby. Talk about the colours, sounds, and shapes to build early language skills.

18. BAKING OR COOKING TOGETHER

Even if baby’s too small to help, they’ll love watching (and smelling!) as you cook. Try simple recipes and get them involved with cool utensils or tasting soft foods.

💡 Cubbi Tip: Family-friendly meals from HelloFresh or Gousto are perfect for busy evenings — healthy, delicious, and discounted through Cubbi so you can spend more time cuddling, less time cooking.

19. ATTEND A BABY MARKET OR NEARLY-NEW SALE

Local baby markets are a brilliant place to find toys, books, and clothes at bargain prices — and a nice excuse to chat with other parents.

20. COSY MOVIE AFTERNOON

Sometimes the best plan is no plan. Pop on a jumper, make a warm drink, and enjoy baby snuggles while the rain taps on the window.