From golden autumn leaves to the first storms of the season, October 2026 certainly gave us plenty to remember.
As the final days of October slip away, we say goodbye to a month that brought us beautiful autumn colours, darker evenings, Halloween excitement and, just when we thought autumn was behaving itself, the first two named storms of the season.
Across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth, the changing landscape has reminded us why autumn remains one of the most beautiful times of the year.
From the golden leaves of Sutton Park to the historic streets of Lichfield and the riverside walks around Tamworth, October has provided some wonderful seasonal scenery.
But it hasn’t all been peaceful autumn walks and colourful trees!
🌪️ A Stormy End to October
After a relatively quiet start to the autumn storm season, October certainly made up for lost time.
Storm Austen, named on 20 October, became the first named storm of the 2026/27 season, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the country.
Just two days later, Storm Boelo was named, bringing another spell of disruptive weather over the weekend of 24–25 October.
The two storms affected different parts of the United Kingdom, with southern England experiencing some of Austen’s strongest winds, while Scotland and northern areas bore the brunt of Boelo.
The unsettled weather contributed to England experiencing its wettest week for two years, with an average of 55mm of rain falling during the seven days to 27 October.
Although the most severe conditions occurred elsewhere, the storms were a timely reminder that autumn weather can change remarkably quickly.
And with the winter months still ahead, there may be more windy days to come.
🍁 Autumn Colours at Their Finest
Away from the stormy headlines, October has once again demonstrated the beauty of our local countryside.
Sutton Park, one of the great treasures of Sutton Coldfield, is particularly attractive at this time of year.
The changing colours of its ancient woodland, the reflections across its pools and the crisp autumn air make it an ideal destination for walkers, photographers and families.
In Lichfield, the magnificent cathedral provides a wonderful backdrop to the changing season, while Beacon Park offers colourful tree-lined walks.
Tamworth has its own autumn attractions, with the Castle Grounds and riverside areas providing opportunities to enjoy the final weeks of the season.
Of course, autumn also means fallen leaves, muddy pathways and the annual battle to keep gardens tidy!
But there is something rather special about walking through a carpet of golden leaves on a bright October afternoon.
🕰️ The Clocks Have Gone Back
Sunday 25 October marked the end of British Summer Time, with clocks moving back one hour.
For many of us, that extra hour in bed was very welcome!
Unfortunately, it also means the evenings are getting darker much earlier.
The shorter days bring their own pleasures, however.
There is something comforting about returning home on a chilly evening, drawing the curtains and settling down with a warm drink.
For local pubs, restaurants, theatres and entertainment venues, the darker evenings also provide the perfect opportunity to welcome visitors looking for somewhere warm and inviting.
🎃 Halloween Brings October to a Close
October wouldn’t be complete without Halloween.
Across our three towns, pumpkins, spooky decorations and seasonal activities have helped bring a little colour and excitement to the darker evenings.
From family-friendly activities to ghostly tales and Halloween entertainment, the occasion has become an established part of the autumn calendar.
For children, of course, the excitement of dressing up and trick-or-treating remains one of the highlights.
And for the adults?
Perhaps the opportunity to enjoy a little chocolate when nobody is looking!
🌺 A Final Burst of Colour in the Garden
October is also an important month for gardeners.
Summer bedding plants have been reaching the end of their season, while autumn and winter favourites such as pansies, violas, cyclamen and heathers begin taking centre stage.
Gardeners have been busy clearing fallen leaves, preparing borders and planting spring-flowering bulbs.
Tulips, daffodils and crocuses planted during autumn will reward us with welcome colour when winter finally gives way to spring.
It’s also the time to protect vulnerable plants from frost, tidy up containers and prepare for colder weather.
But don’t be too enthusiastic with the garden clearance!
Leaving some seed heads, fallen leaves and sheltered corners can provide valuable food and protection for birds, insects and other wildlife throughout winter.
🎆 November – A Month of Remembrance and Celebration
As we welcome November, there is plenty to look forward to.
Bonfire Night – 5 November
Fireworks, bonfires and seasonal celebrations are traditional features of early November.
Families planning to attend organised displays should check local event information and remember to keep pets safe and comfortable during the festivities.
Remembrance Sunday – 8 November
One of the most important dates in the national calendar, Remembrance Sunday provides an opportunity for communities to come together and remember those who gave their lives in service.
Across Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth, remembrance remains an important part of community life.
Armistice Day – 11 November
At 11am, the traditional two-minute silence offers another opportunity for quiet reflection and remembrance.
The Countdown to Christmas Begins
And then, almost before we know it, Christmas will be approaching!
November traditionally sees the arrival of festive decorations, Christmas shopping events, seasonal markets and the first pantomimes.
Local theatres will be preparing for one of their busiest periods of the year, while shops and businesses begin welcoming customers looking for those special Christmas gifts.
It’s also a wonderful opportunity to support our independent retailers and local businesses.
❤️ Celebrating Our Three Towns
As the seasons change, one thing remains constant: the wonderful variety of people, places, businesses and community organisations that make Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield and Tamworth special.
Throughout the coming weeks, What’s On In My Town will continue bringing you local news, events, community activities, theatre productions and stories about the people who make a difference.
We’ll also be looking ahead to the festive season, with plenty of ideas for days out, entertainment and Christmas celebrations.
🍂 Goodbye October – Welcome November!
So, as we say farewell to October 2026, we can look back on a month of beautiful autumn scenery, changing weather, Halloween celebrations and the first two named storms of the season.
November may bring colder mornings, shorter days and the occasional frosty start, but it also offers opportunities to get outdoors, enjoy local entertainment and spend time with family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a walk through Sutton Park, a visit to historic Lichfield or an afternoon exploring Tamworth, there’s always something to discover close to home.
Here’s to November – a new month, a new season of activities and plenty more to enjoy across our three wonderful towns.
From everyone at What’s On In My Town, goodbye October and hello November!
