Whilst there are many, many reasons to look forward to the hygge thirst trap that is: autumn, getting reacquainted with our telebox is right up there at numero uno. Ditching all open-air plans for the feel-good candlelit glow of Hogwarts and the treasured rom coms we’ve seen 184 times (what of it?) is exactly what this time of year was designed for. 

A feel-good watch list is an absolute necessity on those chilly fall evenings spent swaddled in your dressing gown but if you’re not quite ready for Hocus Pocus and hot water bottles just yet, these seasonal on-screen gems should get you in the mood. Featuring timeless cult classics, heart-warming animations and leafy scenes aplenty, pour yourself a hot toddy and nestle in for the foreseeable future with these cosy flicks. Bye, bye social life, hello hibernation station!  

1. Waitress (2007)

Give me the synopsis: 

We haven’t had a pie film this good since… well, American Pie but this is a pie strictly without the penis. The film follows Jenna Hunterson, a waitress and pie-baking genius who works in a diner in a small southern town. An unwanted pregnancy changes the events in her life and with the help of her friends, she finds the courage and confidence to start afresh. 

What’s so autumn about it: 

It’s a rom-com pie. If that doesn’t sell it to you, we can’t be pals. 

2. Practical Magic (1998)

Give me the synopsis:

Based on the Alice Hoffman book of the same name, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman star in this pro-witch cult classic about a family of witches, navigating love, life & midnight margarita magic. 

What’s so autumn about it:  

Hard magic and feminism is always in season, plus Sally (Sandra Bullock) lights a candle with her breath. What more do you need? 

3. Autumn in New York (2000)

Give me the synopsis:  

An autumnal rom-com – clue’s in the name – starring Richard Gere and Winona Ryder. He plays a fancy-schmancy restaurateur (read: 48-year-old playboy), who falls for a terminally ill woman half his age. Insider’s tip, you will get something in your eye and only ice cream can fix it. 

What’s so autumn about it: 

Manhattan is the main character. 

4. Mona Lisa Smile (2003) 

Give me the synopsis: 

Julia Roberts stars as a free-thinking Art History teacher at the conservative Wellesley College in this period film set in 1950s New England. She sets out to empower her pupils and inspire them to challenge the outdated roles they’re expected to play in society. 

What’s so autumn about it: 

Great costumes, back-to-school vibes and New England in her best fall finery. 

5. Paddington (2014) 

Give me the synopsis: 

Crack open the jar of marmalade because this endearing film/s is the stuff of fluffy Seville Orange dreams. A warm-hearted live action comedy that follows the many misadventures of a young Wellington boot, red bucket-hat-wearing bear in the big city. 

What’s so autumn about it: 

Prime feel-good hibernation viewing. Watch it swiftly followed by the *elite* second movie.

6. Fantastic Mr Fox (2009)

Give me the synopsis:

This adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s book is a downright loveable watch for the whole family. Mr Fox (voiced by George Clooney) pledges to give up his wild chicken-thieving ways when he becomes a father but when he realises what’s available at the farms across the field, he can’t resist his animal instincts. Cue the game of cat and mouse or fox and farmer! Truly chef’s kiss entertainment for a rainy day in October. 

What’s so autumn about it: 

Wes Anderson got his paws on the colour palette. Need we say more? Pure animated JOY.

7. Sweet Home Alabama (2002) 

Give me the synopsis:

Successful New York fashion designer and bride-to-be Melanie Carmichael (Reese Witherspoon) returns home to Alabama to get her first hot husband to sign the divorce papers but upon seeing her ex, she starts to feel things for him all over again…

What’s so autumn about it: 

A childhood sweetheart story for cuffing season? Groundbreaking. 

8. Hocus Pocus (1993) 

Give me the synopsis:

It’s not October without the Sanderson sisters, that creepy Come Little Children soundtrack and Thackery White Shirt Hottie Binx. 

Max, a curious young boy who moves to Salem with his family, lights the black flame candle and brings three famous witches, Winnie, Sarah and Mary, back from the dead. Gulp. With the help of a magical cat (embodied with the soul of White Shirt Hottie) they must retrieve the witches’ spell book by sunrise to stop them from becoming immortal and reigning terror over Salem forever more. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

Halloween but make it cosy. 

9. You’ve Got Mail (1998) 

Give me the synopsis:

It’s not autumn until Tom Hanks says, “don’t cry shopgirl, don’t cry”. Independent bookstore owner Kathleen Kelly (Meg Ryan) starts up an *anonymous* internet romance with none other than her business rival, Joe Fox (Tom Hanks), owner of corporate superchain Fox Books. Eventually, Joe discovers Shopgirl’s true identity and must decide what to do about the blossoming romance between them. Will these online lovers, offline enemies be able to put aside their differences for l-o-v-e? 

What’s so autumn about it? 

Came here for the dial up nostalgia, stayed for the absolute autumn SCENES. It will make you want to roll in a pile of leaves. Thank you, Nora Ephron. Thank you. 

10. Dead Poets Society (1989) 

Give me the synopsis:

A new English teacher, John Keating, played by the king of feel-good Robin Williams, shakes up the private school lesson plans and inspires his pupils to realise their dreams with contemporary teachings of poetry in this coming-of-age gem. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

It eats Seasonal Affective Disorder for breakfast. 

11. Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone (2001) 

Give me the synopsis:

This film needs no introduction. The first time we meet an eleven-year-old bespectacled boy wizard as he sets off for Hogwarts will always have a special place in our hearts. Pour yourself a pumpkin juice and bask in the joy of John Williams’ magical soundtrack. He is a wizard of the highest order. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

Halloween in the Great Hall, duh. 

12. Coco (2019)

Give me the synopsis: 

Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, Miguel, a 12-year-old Mexican boy dreams of becoming an accomplished musician, just like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself transported to the Land of the Dead where he reconciles with his family’s past and learns all about his musical roots. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

The all-singing all-dancing skeletons. 

13. Good Will Hunting (1997) 

Give me the synopsis: 

This psychological drama follows Will Hunting (Matt Damon), a caretaker cleaning floors at a prestigious college in Boston and a secret mathematical genius. When he solves a difficult math problem, Professor Gerald Lambeau discovers his gift and offers to help the misguided youth reach his full potential, on the condition that he seeks help from therapist Sean Maguire (Robin Williams). The bromance will turn your bottom lip to jelly. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

Leaves (and tears) for days. Your move, chief.

14. Cruella (2021) 

Give me the synopsis: 

Emma Stone plays an aspiring designer first known as Estella in this live-action punk prequel about the dog-napping villain, Cruella de Vil. Penniless and orphaned, Estella and her sidekicks, Horace and Jasper, run wild around London where they come up against the owner of the iconic couture company House of Baroness, expertly portrayed by Emma Thompson. Cue the fashion face-off. 

What’s so autumn about it? 

Gorgeous atmospheric London scenes & all the Halloween /Fall fashion inspo. Put the garbage dress in the V&A museum at once. 

15. Enola Holmes (2020)

Give me the synopsis: 

Stranger Things actress Millie Bobby Brown stars as the title character in this female-led Netflix Original movie about the younger sister of famous detective, Sherlock Holmes. While searching for her missing mother, she outwits her brother and becomes entangled in another mystery with the young runaway Viscount Tewkesbury. A glorious romp through 19^thcentury England ensues.

What’s so autumn about it?

The captivating cinematography makes it the perfect movie to hunker down with when it’s blowing a gale outside. 

‘Tis the season for meandering through orange fields of joy (also known as the humble pumpkin patch) and embracing everything nature has to offer in the most magical season change of the year. Whether it be as part of a Blair Waldorf worthy pumpkin pie, to carve alongside a mulled cider, or simply to grab a pic for the ‘gram (no judgement here), dressing for your trip to the farm is peak autumn goals if we ever did see it.

Pantone called and they want their autumn colour swatches back, because if you’re not channelling the rust/sage/orange and chocolate shades whilst strutting the muddy trenches of your local PYO patch then you’re doing it wrong. Sorry, we don’t make the rules. Keep scrolling to see the outfits Team Zoella are going to be rocking this season whilst pushing a wheelbarrow of vegetable goodness. Alexa: play Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood.

Charlotte

Pumpkin picking is an autumn rite of passage and I am SO here for it. Pumpkin carving, not so much, but a wholesome walk around a gorgeous field of orange deliciousness is a big fat yes from me. I’ve gone for quite a dressy ‘fit as I’m imagining it transferring into a brunch and let’s be real, autumnal drinks (aka any drink in the cooler months) which I feel like a blazer is always perfect for. I ADORE this scarf from Ganni and am prepared to eat beans on toast for the rest of the year to own it. Finish off with some chunky boots and it’s the perfect farming outfit!

*Mango, Houndstooth wool-blend blazer, £69.99 | Na-kd, Organic Wide Leg High Waisted Denim, £40.95 | Plumo, FLASH GREEN SCARF BY GANNI, £149 | *Stradivarius, High neck sweater, £15.99 | *Ego, CHUNKY CLEATED SOLE ANKLE BOOT, £69.99

Lareese

I made the mistake of wearing Converse to a pumpkin patch a few years back and they didn’t see Christmas so I won’t be doing that again. This year, I’m sticking to appropriate footwear with a pair of glorified wellington boots teamed with brown dungies, 70s florals and a cosy fleece to keep me warm when I’m out there fondling the gourds.

Pull & Bear, FADED LONG DENIM DUNGAREES, £29.99 | Pull & Bear, FLORAL PRINT TULLE T-SHIRT, £14.99 | Zara, RUBBERISED FLAT BOOTS, £59.99 | *ASOS, Daisy Street Plus boxy fit colour block fleece, £35

Darcey

I absolutely love going pumpkin picking! I usually stay clear of anything white or light coloured, especially in the UK when it’s likely to be rainy and muddy. This year I’ll probably wear some black jeans and turtleneck, paired with a big comfy gilet and some sturdy boots like Dr Martens. I usually go pretty light on the clothing cause stomping around the field lifting pumps ends up actually being a pretty good workout ha!

*H&M, Padded gilet, £34.99 | *Mango, High-waist cropped straight jeans, £35.99 | *ASOS, ultimate turtle neck in black, £12 | *ASOS, Dr Martens Sinclair boots in black, £189

Maddie

I cannot wait for pumpkin picking this year, one thing I’ve learnt and will make sure I don’t get wrong this year is wearing the right footwear is crucial. I always end up covered in mud and freezing when I visit a PYO pumpkin patch, probably because I always spend ages deciding on the perfect one. Layers and lots of warm accessories are my friends! I just bought these north face boots and I’m obsessed, I’d pair them with some nice leggings, a big cosy jumper and a classic parka jacket.

*The North Face, WOMEN’S THERMOBALL™ LACE-UP BOOTS, £100 | *John Lewis, hush Sadie Parka Coat, Khaki, £175 | *ASOS, adidas Originals Essentials Leggings in Black, £23 | Next, Emma Willis Premium Wool High Neck Jumper, £68

Danielle

I’ve gone for cool and cosy with this outfit. Straight leg leather trousers are a bit edgy and much more interesting than jeans. Best hoodies are from Future self, so so warm and soft, I’d wear this with a khaki jacket so it just looks cream with a pop of blue poking out at the sleeve. Finish it off with a pair of Veja trainers that will last you right through to super cold boot season and they haven’t been out of style for years!

*Mango, Leather-effect elastic waist trousers, £35.99 | *Mango, Satin quilted jacket, £59.99 | *Net-A-Porter, VEJA leather sneakers, £90 | *Future Self, Slogan Hoodie in Blue, £58

Holly

My nephews are roping me into taking them pumpkin picking this year which means I’ll need to have very practical clothing, ready to run after a 4-year-old when he tried to eat snails, so I’ll be going pretty casual. Black jeans and a rusty jumper I think for the ultimate autumnal feel. Indestructible boots and a big ol’ scarf to wrap more pumpkins in when we fill up the wheelbarrow.

Charles & Keith, Lace-Up Ankle Boots – Black, £89 | Accessorize, Wells supersoft blanket scarf grey, £19 | *Monki, Cropped knit sweater, £25 | *Debenhams, Boohoo Plus High Waist Skinny Jeans, £20

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Feeling spicy this autumn and not just in the pumpkin coffee sense? You’re not alone. Although studies suggest our libidos are naturally higher in the summer months, there’s something about long nights at home and getting cosy (read: frisky) after a rainy afternoon of Netflix and chill that really gets the pulse racing. If you’re considering taking things up a notch, whether it be in an existing relationship or as a singleton seeking something fun and flirty, then threesomes or group sex might be just the ticket to the raunchy rendezvous of your dreams. Although threesomes are all fun and games in the movies, there are some important things to consider before jumping feet (or genitals) first into polyamorous intimacy. 

How do you know if a threesome is for you?

According to one study, threesomes are the most common sexual fantasy, with 95% of men and 87% of women surveyed saying they fantasise about sex with multiple partners, but that doesn’t mean they’re for everyone. 

If you’re in the position of the ‘unicorn’ (referring to someone who joins an existing couple as a third partner sexually or emotionally intimately), it’s important to ask yourself what exactly you’re seeking before going ahead. Are you looking for some no-strings-attached fun or the opportunity to connect with others on a longer-term basis? Are you comfortable and confident in yourself and in a stable position to try something that might trigger new (or old) emotions? Would you be putting yourself in a vulnerable position with unknown outcomes? It’s important to know yourself well enough to ensure you will definitely be confident to speak your mind, vocalise your needs, wants and own desires and communicate how the experience is for you both before, during and after. Joining a couple that already knows each other intimately and can communicate more seamlessly might be intimidating, so it’s important to consider how you would feel as the newbie in this dynamic. 

Despite this, as a third joining a couple, there’s so much fun to be had in exploring your sexuality and learning more about what makes you feel good, whether you’re in-between monogamous partners or moving towards a more polyamorous attitude to sex and relationships. 

Bringing a third into your relationship has the potential to change the dynamic of your sex life and feelings for good. Are you ready for that?

Sex can be casual and something that simply satisfies the desires of those involved, but naturally when intimacy is involved, feelings can get complicated too. It’s important to consider the potential long term impact of a threesome if you’re in a committed relationship and what this could mean past the night in question. It’s worth looking a bit deeper and asking yourselves why a threesome is appealing at this point in your relationship? If it’s sparked by feelings of monotony or a desire to spice things up, there are plenty of ways to inject some va va voom into your love life without the risk that comes from adding another person into the mix, which certainly may be worth exploring first. 

More often than not, fantasy is more exciting than reality, so it might be useful to delve a little deeper and uncover what it is about a threesome that appeals to you and the desires you want it to fulfil. Expectation vs reality has never been more apt.

Making sure both partners feel seen and heard is imperative and discussing the ‘rules’ of your threesome beforehand is paramount. Some couples prefer not to kiss or cuddle with their third afterwards, whereas others may be more of the ‘anything goes’ thought. Most importantly, cross every possible (metaphorical) bridge beforehand in preparing for how each other may feel, and you’re well on your way to threesome fun, fun, fun.  

If you’re a jealous person, consider that you might feel left out at times…

Jealousy is without a doubt something to consider going into a threesome, more so for those in relationships adding in a third, as even the most #zen and non-jealous people may find themselves triggered in this scenario. In the same way that seeing your S/O lust over Margot Robbie in The Wolf of Wall Street activates a defensive and comparative mechanism in us, seeing them with someone else IRL is no doubt even more intense. Consider whether these new emotions are ones you’re capable of dealing with and weigh up the impact on your mental health for the benefit of this new experience. Whilst threesomes might become an exciting way for you to express yourself sexually, it’s not something to jump into at the click of a finger. 

We spoke to sex educator, digital creator and the genius behind sex-positive and educational Instagram and website @cliterallythebest to delve a little deeper into the most frequently asked threesome Qs you’ve always had on your lips. Consider Evie your sexual pleasure fairy godmother:

There’s some basic lingo to know before engaging in a threesome, for example, FFM = Two women, one man, MMF = Two men, one woman, T = Transgender. Although some may instantly know the dynamic they want from their threesome experience, how can those that are not sure come to a decision?

Any group of three can have a threesome rather than just those listed, no matter your sexuality or how you identify they are all valid.

Evie Plumb

When it comes to deciding on who you want your threesome with, it all depends on who turns you on and what you fantasise about.  If you are in a couple looking for a third, you both need to decide on what kind of threesome you want to experience and that neither one of you is pressuring the other.

Whether you’re a couple seeking a ‘unicorn’ or someone on their own looking for others, I recommend making a good old pros and cons list. This can help you/you and your partner see a clearer picture of what you might enjoy best. Another great tip is to watch porn (if it’s something that gets you off), preferably ethical porn and see what types of threesomes turn you on or you can imagine participating in – it’s also a great way to ease you into the idea! 

What are the benefits of a threesome and how might it help people explore their sexuality and sexual pleasure? 

There are many different reasons people have threesomes and the benefits can be individual to each person. It can simply be an exciting new way of experiencing pleasure, a way for someone in a relationship to explore their sexuality/fantasies or even a tester for becoming polyamorous. 

What’s the best way to approach your partner if you’re looking to introduce a third into your relationship? 

If your partner does say yes, it’s important to discuss why you both want to have this threesome and whether this will be a one-off or a segue into a potential open relationship. It’s also essential to communicate any thoughts or fears from the beginning, like jealousy (because you will feel it and it’s totally normal) so you can work out how you will both navigate these feelings.

How can you ensure that everyone feels equally involved in the threesome so that it’s equally pleasurable for all? 

Learn what each person enjoys before. Find out what turns them on and voice what gets you going too. As well as this, don’t feel like you have to jump in straight away. Take it slow, ease it in, take breaks if you need to. There’s no wrong way to have sex and this applies no matter how many people are involved – do what works for you.

Another important thing to make sure everyone feels involved and gets the most out of the experience is aftercare. Ensure everyone is hydrated, replenished and content, plan an activity for after, don’t just get the third party to leave once it’s done. This could be post-sex pudding or grabbing some breakfast in the morning – make sure to check in with everyone and chat about what went well etc.

What is a safe word and how can people use it when they feel uncomfortable? 

A safeword is simply a random word that you pick that can be used when you or others want the activity to stop. Safewords originally came from BDSM but should be used in any sexual activity. 

People recommend not to use the word ‘stop’ or any word that could be used during sex normally as this can be confusing when people use these playfully. Agree on a random word like ‘Banana’ that every party can use when they feel uncomfortable. 

What sort of things should definitely be discussed with each partner before engaging in a threesome? 

Are there any basic threesome dos and don’ts that newbies may not be aware of? 

For those couples looking for a third, it’s important to remember that your potential ‘Unicorn’ is a human and not a sex toy and their needs should be given equal weight. Do get to know them as a person first, take them out to dinner – sex doesn’t have to be the first conversation. 

Don’t use a threesome as a relationship bandaid. Threesomes, especially with established relationships, take trust and security. If you are not feeling secure in your relationship I do not recommend adding a third. 

How do you ensure you’re using protection to keep everyone safe whilst also allowing partners to all engage sexually at once?

Protection can be hard to keep track of when you bring another person into the equation. It can be hard to remember who’s gone where especially when you’re in the moment. 

Make sure you discuss how you will stay protected with all parties before you get down to it. You can highlight who is on contraception, everyone’s STI status, what protection you’ll be using (condoms/dental dams will be easiest) and what activities are on/off-limits. This means that you’ll all be on the same page and the risk of sharing a little more than orgasms will be lower.

To stay safe I recommend changing condoms/dental dams when the mouth-to-genital/genital-to-genital pairings change.

How can you find compatible and like-minded people to share the experience with? 

Another great way to meet people is at sex parties. People often get a bit freaked out when you mention these, but they are some of the safest spaces to explore and meet people in the same headspace as you! There is absolutely no pressure to participate which can make it a lot less daunting than planning a whole threesome.

Answers submitted by Evie Plumb, Evie is an ACET- qualified sex educator and the founder of Cliterally the Best, a sex-positive educational platform and Instagram. 

Fancy some paranormal activity with your staycay? Then you’re in the right place.

Kick your pumpkins to the curb and hang up your fright night attire, if you really want some supernatural thrills, head to one of these spooky haunts for Halloween and you just might end up with more company than you bargained for.

From angry duchesses to troubled German princes and butlers with unfinished business, you probably won’t catch one wink of sleep in these eerie guesthouses but it’ll be worth it for the ghost stories.

Arnos Manor Hotel, Bristol

📍 Arnos Manor Hotel, Bristol

The former girls’ school run by nuns is said to be occupied by the ghost of one of the young nuns who tragically took her own life when she fell pregnant. Upon finding her body, the nuns bricked her up in the wall to hide the scandal, never to be mentioned again. It wasn’t until the hotel was damaged by a bomb during WWII that her skeleton was discovered. Since then, a figure dressed in a brown habit has been spotted several times with most reported sightings happening in room 160.

The Mermaid Inn, Rye

📍Mermaid Inn, Rye

Supposedly one of the most haunted inns in the UK, this place is renowned for its resident ghosts and atmospheric chambers. Once used as the headquarters of the notorious Hawkhurst smugglers who reigned terror in Rye, the centuries-old inn now attracts ghost hunters and history buffs alike. From bottles smashing in the middle of the night to a rocking chair swaying back and forward of its own accord, previous guests have reported a number of ghostly goings on at this quaint old boozer. If you want good ale with a side of supernatural, you know where to come!

Ham House, Surrey

📍Family Ghost Tours a Ham House and Garden, London

This 17th century house is poppin’ with paranormal activity (15 ghosts to be precise) and it’s not just limited to human apparitions either. It’s said to be haunted by a King Charles Spaniel who can be heard skittering across the floor in certain parts of the house. Although you can’t stay at the house, visitors with a penchant for the hauntings of Ham House can partake in one of the candlelit ghost walks through the house and gardens where you’ll hear all about ghostly goings on past and present and the restless spirit of Elizabeth Murray, Duchess of Lauderdale, who inherited the house from her father in 1655.

The Madness Chamber, York

📍The Chamber Apartment – Flats for Rent in York, North Yorkshire

Dubbed Airbnb’s most haunted property in the UK, the Madness Chamber is over 650 years old, tucked away in an ancient courtyard where the first Norman house was built back in the 12th century. Featuring a four-poster bed, wood panelling, oodles of creepy taxidermy, a Ouija board on the coffee table and an actual ghost detector by the armchair (who needs a remote when you can Poltergeist and Chill?), ghostbusters will be right at home here.

The Haunted Bedroom at Talliston

📍The Haunted Bedroom at Talliston, Great Dunmow, Essex

If having the living daylights scared out of you by a dead Edwardian boy is exactly what you look for in a weekend away, then the master bedroom in “Britain’s most extraordinary home” will tick all the accommodation boxes. The low-lit haunted chamber should have all the fear factor you’re after with its crucifix-adorned walls, heavy drapes, hand-carved angels and eerie ephemera. Expect unexplained sights, sounds and smells and things that go bump in the night. Oooo!

The Langham Hotel

📍The Langham Hotel, London

London’s first purpose-built luxury hotel isn’t just famous for its sumptuous rooms and 5 star grandeur, it’s also thought to be the most haunted hotel in the city.

A ghostly well-dressed Victorian gentleman with a cloak and a cravat is often seen pacing room 333 but only in October. Catch him while you can!

Much like spiders, where there’s one ghost, you can pretty much guarantee there will be others – the most active ghost in The Langham is said to be a German prince who was thought to have met his death when he jumped out of a fourth-floor window in a military jacket. He’s also a huge fan of room 333. Book it at your peril.

The Black Swan Hotel

📍Black Swan Hotel, North Yorkshire

If your idea of a restful staycay is goosebumps and mysterious drops in temperature, then The Black Swan Hotel could be the perfect hostelry for you. This creaky 15th-century merchant mansion has bags of character and is home to several ghosts including a gentleman in a bowler hat who appears to be waiting for someone at the bar, tutting and fidgeting.

Another frequent visitor is the ghost of a beautiful blonde woman thought to be a jilted bride, who stares into the fire. A phantom highwayman in riding boots and a long black coat known as Jack regularly appears in the kitchen – previously this area was the original stable yard. At night, staff can often hear him singing along to Irish folk songs in the corner of the bar.

If that wasn’t enough action for one spook-cation, a number of guests and staff have also reported a pair of legs wandering around the property and disappearing up the stairs!

Tyn Dwr Hall

📍Tyn Dwr Hall, Llangollen

Named as one of the most haunted stays in Wales this beautiful Grade II listed building originally built for ironmaster John Dickin in the 1800s makes the perfect spot for spooky sightings. You can stay at the property in the hopes of finding a few different ghosts, including a woman in a rustling dress as well as a gamekeeper. Be sure to keep a lookout for the mysterious green mist that rolls over the property and try and listen out for children laughing. You can even get married at Tyn Dwr Hall for partners who have a penchant for poltergeists!

Dalhousie Castle Hotel

📍Regal Rooms & Suites in Scotland Dalhousie Castle, Edinburgh

Now a luxurious hotel and spa, Dalhousie Castle Hotel has a dark history. The 13th century fortress is regarded as one of Edinburgh’s most haunted places and one of the spookiest places in the world. The most frequent spectre is said to be the lovelorn Lady Catherine, known as The Grey Lady, who reportedly died of a broken heart at 16 after being caught with a stable hand and imprisoned in one of the turrets by his vengeful wife. She can now be heard tapping on doors, stalking the corridors and sometimes even sat at the end of a bed.

If you’re a paying human guest and not a huge fan of ghost stories, there’s plenty more to see and do. You can dine in the deep dark walls of the dungeons, try your hand at archery, relax in the aqueous spa, sink into a chair in the oak-panelled Library with a wee dram of whisky or get hands on with the feathered friends of Dalhousie under the guidance of the castle falconry.

Ballygally Castle

📍Ballygally, Northern Ireland

Fans of Game of Thrones will love all the filming location spots around beautiful Ballygally Castle in Northern Ireland. The castle is famous for being haunted by a certain Lady Isobella Shaw, who was married to Lord Shaw whilst they were residents in the castle in 1625. It’s thought Isobella fell out of a window whilst trying to escape after her husband locked her in a room after giving birth to their son. Expect to see her walking the halls during the night in search of her son, gruesome!

The Adelphi Hotel

📍Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool

The landmark hotel dating back to 1914 has had its fair share of spooky incidents. The ghost of Raymond Brown, a 15-year-old boy who died after he became trapped in the baggage room lift, has reportedly picked up the luggage belonging to guests and carried it off before vanishing. There’s also a phantom pickpocket on the loose who has been seen rifling through belongings in the early hours. Alexa, play Rockwell Somebody’s Watching Me.

Baskerville Hall Hotel

📍 Baskerville Hall hotel, Hay-on-Wye, Wales

Baskerville Hall was built in 1839 by Thomas Mynors Baskerville for his second wife, Elizabeth, and is also thought to have inspired the classic Sherlock Holmes story The Hound of the Baskervilles! A noisy night may be ahead of you if you choose to stay at Baskerville Hall, with many visitors reporting hearing lots of banging and footsteps, you might also spot The White Lady in amongst the rose garden too!

First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?

We are so excited to welcome our visitors back to Tulleys. The year has been brilliant for us so far kicking off with sunflowers and now with Halloween in full swing with both Shocktober Fest and our pumpkin fields now open.

Can you tell us about Tulleys Farm and its history?

My Great Grandfather Bernard Beare started farming in 1911. My grandparents Denis & Marion Beare took the farm in the direction of traditional PYO business in the early 1970’s it soon became one of the biggest PYO farms in the UK, growing 40 different crops over 120 acres. My Dad Stuart joined the farm in 1991 and converted the farm into more of an entertainment venue, creating immersive seasonal family events with the intention of bringing people together. I have always had involvement in the farm since a young age, I was even once a scare actor. Once I graduated from ag college I joined the farm as hayride manager, I am now operations manager for Pumpkins and sunflowers

How long have you been running ‘Shocktoberfest’ and what’s it all about?

Shocktober fest has been running for 25 years and started with quite a humble beginning with 1 haunted house and a small amount of pumpkins, the event has now grown into Europes largest Halloween event featuring 9 live attractions, street theatre, 2 live music stages, 2 bars, circus show and fairground rides. Every year we attract 450,000 visitors.

What else does Tulleys have to offer year-round?

All year round we have our award-winning escape rooms, where you have 1 hour to escape from a themed room you can choose between ghosts, witches, pirates or even gangsters. We also have seasonal events including our family Christmas event with a real ice rink and PYO sunflowers and pumpkins.

Obviously the last 18 months have been really tough on the events industry, how did you manage over the lockdowns?

During lockdown we created the UK’s first drive-thru farm shop where visitors could order and collect delicious local food without leaving their cars. We also created the drive-in cinema, which proved to be a huge hit. So we kept ourselves and our visitors busy.

What’s next for Tulley’s Farm?

My lips are sealed however we have some very exciting things planned for 2022

A lot of people are about to start purchasing their pumpkins, what’s the benefit of going to a PYO?

If you haven’t visited a PYO pumpkin farm, I would strongly suggest you add this to your bucket list. You really to experience a visit to understand how magical it is.

Can you tell us about your PYO pumpkin nights?

We took inspiration for pumpkin nights from the states, the night consists of pumpkin picking but underneath the moonlight, we also have live actors who interact with visitors, live music and of course delicious food and a cocktail bar.

We were lucky enough to head to Tulley’s for the drive-in cinema last Christmas, what else do you have planned for the festive period?

We are excited to be bringing back our traditional family Christmas event and we know our guests are also excited!

Fancy going full autumn cliche? Why the heck not! Whether you’re craving a wholesome day out with the fam, the opportunity to show off your new season shacket in style or you’re simply hoping to nab the pick of the crop for your autumn tablescape centrepiece, pumpkin picking is the ultimate October bucket list fun. Keep scrolling for the crème de la crème of PYO patches in England, and enjoy the simplest of autumnal pleasures around- we heart you spooky season.

Bell’s Pumpkin Patch, Lincolnshire

📍 Lowfields Road, Boston, PE22 0EE

One of the biggest PYO patches in the UK and harvesting over 1 million pumpkins each year, Bell’s Pumpkin Patch in Lincolnshire welcomes tens of thousands of visitors a year and has everything you need for a wholesome day out. Perfect for those with little ones (or anyone wanting to embrace their inner child) Bell’s has a maize maze, assault course, face painting, tractor rides and food and drinks area (with a cocktail menu FYI, major selling point) in addition to their perfect pumpkins and gourds which you can carve onsite too. Also home to Britain’s Biggest Pumpkin Cannon, join the team as they fire pumpkins across the open fields to raise money for some seriously inspiring charities. Open on the 16th-17th and 23rd-31st October, buy both single or family tickets via the Bell’s website.

Sompting Pumpkin Patch, West Sussex

📍 Halewick Lane, Sompting, Lancing, BN15 0NE

Grab your wellies, a wheelbarrow and your best cosy knit and head out into the rolling fields of the South Downs to experience all that their 23 acres of land has to offer. Parking and entry are free of charge here, however any money raised from the event is donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital’s Children’s Charity which helps over 600 children receive specialist care and treatment. The family run patch also has a selection of seriously delicious recipe ideas on their website to inspire a wholesome candlelit dinner with your carving leftovers.

Tulleys Farm, West Sussex

📍 Tulleys Farm, Turners Hill Road, Turners Hill, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 4PD

Tulleys Farm is the ultimate location for all the seasonal fun, with their Shocktober Fest and Halloween Fright Nights being a true staple for any adrenaline junkie in the autumn season. Their 60 acres of land produce over 450,000 pumpkins a year, so whether you want to carve a ghoulish face or collect a selection of gourds for your seasonal doorstep design, Tulleys is the place to be. And new for 2021, live roaming autumn characters occupy the pumpkin patch, including Gourdy the Jester, Sage the Wizard, Folly the Scarecrow and The Queen of the Harvest. Enjoy the magic of this immersive experience and don’t forget to tag @tulleyspyopumpkins on Instagram!

Undley Farm, Suffolk

📍 Pumpkin Patch & Maize Maze, Undley Road, Beck Row, IP28 8BX

Now running for 22 years, Undley Farm is a golden oldie pumpkin picking destination open on weekends and half term for all of your PYO needs this autumn. With 25 varieties of pumpkins and 36 different varieties of gourds to choose from, the fields and surrounding farmland also feature a Halloween maize maze, face painting, giant inflatables, pumpkin carving demonstrations and a lucky dip in which everyone’s a winner- what’s not to love?! The farm also has a barbeque offering burgers and hot dogs, hog roast, wood fired pizzas and traditional pumpkin soup, pumpkin bread and pumpkin pie (with vegan and gf options available too). Anyone else feeling peckish? Entry to the patch is free with small additional costs for extra attractions, and you can book admission via the Undley website.

Cattows Farm, Leicestershire

📍 Cattows Farm, Swepstone Road, Heather, Leicestershire, LE67 2RF

A family-run farm since 1899, Cattows is opening its gates once more for a bigger, better and spookier than ever Halloween extravaganza this autumn. Open from 9am–5pm Monday to Sunday, their impressive range of pumpkins, squashes and ornamental gourds are sold by weight and can start from as little as 20p! For those with impressive pumpkin knowledge, you can expect to see the Knucklehead, Charmed, Racer, Mars, Hooligan, Snowman and Harvest Moon pumpkin varieties in the rolling fields so you’ll be spoilt for choice. With a popular tearoom and takeaway coffee and snack shack, expect a full afternoon of fun at Cattows.

Piglet’s Adventure Farm, York

📍 Piglets, Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York, YO32 9ST

Not only does Piglet’s Farm have the cutest name in all the land, their pumpkin festival is the height of festive fun and one not to be missed for Northern dwellers close to the gorgeous town of York. Secure your tickets to the farm online and each full paying child receives a free (!) homegrown pumpkin of their choice to pick before heading over to the carving tent to transform it into a vegetable masterpiece. If you fancy going the whole hog this Halloween and being in with the chance of winning a free child annual membership then simply dress up in your spookiest ‘fit, take a photo in the Piglet’s farm photo frame and tag @pigletsadventurefarm to be in with the chance of winning. Psst- there’s a winner chosen every day!

Pickwell Farm, Southampton

📍 Pickwell Farm Shop, Grange Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 8GD

The simplest of pumpkin picking experiences without any frills, Pickwell Farm in Southampton has 10 acres of fields to wander and pick to your heart’s content. Simply grab a wheelbarrow and go, no need to book. They’ve been growing pumpkins for over 35 years and certainly know a thing or two about getting it right. Get an orange pumpkin at any size for £2.50 or white for £3, available Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5pm or Sundays 9am – 4pm.

Cannon Hall Farm, South Yorkshire

📍 Cannon Hall Farm, Cawthorne, Barnsley, S75 4AT.

If seeing adorable animals whilst pumpkin picking is also on your agenda (if not, it certainly should be) then look no further than Cannon Hall whose tickets also include a day’s admission to the farm. Meet Millie and Primrose the goats, Helen the hand-reared Alpaca and Ozzie Horseborne the Highland Calf Lilibet- the dream pals for your wholesome autumn day on the farm. All paying children get a free pumpkin and can also make the most of themed activities and outdoor and indoor playgrounds too so no matter the weather the little ones are occupied. All tickets must be booked in advance online. Adult admission £10.95 and kids £12.95.

Rectory Farm, Oxfordshire

📍 Rectory Farm, Stanton St John, Oxford, OX33 1HF

Oxfordshire’s Rectory Farm grows thirty different types of fruit, vegetables and flowers year-round, and this season they’re making history by growing their very first pumpkin patch- plus lots of new PYO flower varieties. The farm adopts modern techniques, such as growing strawberries on tabletops and in tunnels, which reduces the needs for pesticides and shields them from the harshest weather, meaning they can guarantee a consistently high quality crop. Passionate about minimising water waste, pollution and reducing the use of unnecessary fertilisers, Rectory Farm is a must-visit for the eco-conscious pumpkin picker. The pumpkin patch is open from 8th-31st October with no booking required.

Cammas Hall Farm, Hertfordshire

📍 Cammas Hall Farm, Needham Green, Hatfield Broad Oak, Near Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM22 7JT

Family owned and situated on the Hertfordshire and Essex border, Cammas Hall Farm is easily accessible by London and promises a Halloween extravaganza including a Maize Maze and nature trails across a seven acre site. Offering some seriously eerie interaction with their friendly Halloween characters, a venture down the Wicked Walkway or simply a trip to the Cammas Hall Farm Shop packed with toffee apples, decorations and a plethora of seasonal produce, there’s oodles to do for a fun filled autumn weekend.

Mr Pumpkin, Derby

📍 Lime Farm, Mansfield Road, Morley, Derby DE7 6JU

Orange pumpkins, white pumpkins, star shaped pumpkins, giant pumpkins, teeny tiny pumpkins, warty pumpkins, striped pumpkins, ugly pumpkins, Mr Pumpkin, unsurprisingly, has it ALL when it comes to your Halloween vegetable needs. With over 90,000 pumpkins planted this year, the fourth-generation crop farm has been open to pumpkin picking lovers since 2017 and has grown year on year to meet the needs of Halloween lovers who want to celebrate in style. Their pumpkin trail raises funds for the Air Ambulance and PYO patch features over 40 different varieties of pumpkins. Tickets are on sale and available throughout the month of October, with under 16s going free and adult tickets available for just £2.

There’s no doubt that as the leaves turn a Harry Styles approved shade of golden and the morning air feels crisper as the days trundle by, the need for an extra layer increases quicker than a box of Celebrations stays full on Xmas morning. 

If you’re not ready to say goodbye to your summer dresses and midi skirts then look no further, because with the right layering pieces on hand, anything is possible (well, almost anything). Add under band tees or strappy dresses and expand your cool weather wardrobe tenfold by coordinating or mismatching thin knits, turtlenecks or long sleeve tees till your hearts content, all whilst staying smugly warm in the process. And for the days when comfort is the ultimate priority (e.g. every day), chuck a new-in or well loved knit over your favourite summer smock and embrace all things bold and baggy- sometimes you need an entirely shapeless ‘fit and we ain’t judging ya for it. 

Including picks from some of our fave brands including Monki, Boden, Sezane and Reformation, consider your autumnal wardrobe levelled up.

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Hygge: a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).

It’s autumn baby and the time for cosy nights in front of Strictly Come Dancing ft. pie, mash and a glass of red are truly upon us! Summer might have felt like a flash in the pan but even those who crave their hit of Vit D the most must admit there’s something about the move into the cooler months that feels nostalgic, comforting and maybe like the time for rest and recuperation we need after a hectic few months. 2020 saw us (forcibly) make the most of the sanctuaries we created within our four walls, and this year’s autumn season feels like a true celebration of that too (but with the option to head to Spoons on an evening if we like, thank goodness).

Earthy neutrals, statement vases, dried flowers, textured fabrics, houseplants and vintage-inspired decor are just a few of the 2021 interior trends set to stand the test of time this season, so if you’re itching for a change in your space then look no further- sometimes a change is as good as a rest!

Keep scrolling to see team Zoella’s autumn refresh picks and keep an eye on our Insta Stories to see them in situ!

Maddie

I’m obsessed with interiors and any excuse to buy new things and tell my husband it’s for an essential seasonal refresh I AM IN. Autumn is all about getting cosy isn’t it so I usually head straight to Homesense and heals and pile on the candles as high as I can carry. Cushions and throws go a long way to making any room feel warmer and when in doubt a duvet update never fails to give a room a completely different feel.

Dunelm, Dottie Butterscotch Duvet Cover Set, £10 | *La Redoute, Lara Cotton Duvet Cover, £25 | Heals, Frankincense & Pine Short Pillar Candle, £18 | Heals, Winter Spice Tall Pillar Candle With Botanicals, £20 | *H&M, Waffled cotton blanket, £12.99 | The Tartan Blanket Co, Recycled Wool Knee Blanket, £40 | Not On The High Street, SUNDAY’S DAUGHTER, Hey There Pumpkin Velvet Cushion, £35

Danielle

I don’t go in for much pumpkin paraphernalia this time of year, I’m just not organised enough to get it all out and store it etc. But I DO love anything that brings warmth into the home and tbh I’m quite happy to skip straight to Christmas (sue me!) The best thing to get a home a little cosier is adding, texture which is why I’m thinking about investing in a rug for my living room – even though it’s carpeted – to add another layer of texture and a warmer cream to the room. Next up is a pussy willow wreath, this is so gorgeous for autumn and will take me right up until I get my Christmas one on the door. It’s never too early to start burning a White Company Winter candle, the festive scent to end all scents! A bedspread for all you normal people who only have one duvet and don’t change togs for winter. A lovely lamp that would go PERFECTLY in my living room, lamp light is the best light, it makes everything feel softer, death to the ‘big light’!

*La Redoute, Afaw Berber-Style Rug, £95 | *The White Company, Pussy Willow Wreath, £58 | *The White Company, Winter Signature Candle, £20 | *Oliver Bonas, Moe Printed Quilted Olive Green Velvet Bedspread, £155 | *Oliver Bonas, Green Recycled Glass Table & Desk Lamp Large, £125

Holly

I don’t normally care much for seasonal homeware but this year something in me has switched. I think a bit of a shitty summer has me yearning for the crisper evenings and I am READY. My whole house is going to be ‘pumpkined’. From the front door to the bedroom. I’ve got my eye on the cutest doormat because I call people pumpkin all year round so will keep this there forever. A warm orange throw to wrap around me during spooky films season and some other trinkets for the subtle but very much present autumnal theme.

Dunelm, Amelia Fleece 200cm x 200cm Throw, £18 | Next, Pumpkin Cookware, £24 | *Etsy, BalterStore, Hey There Pumpkin Door Mat, £25 | *Matalan, Framed Moon Canvas Print, £25

Darcey

I love adding some seasonal touches to my space and I especially enjoy this around Autumn/Winter. Firstly, can plants count as an interior refresh? Because I recently got a Calathea plant from Patch and I am obsessed with how much it adds to my bedroom because its leaves are so beautiful! New bedding is a must in Autumn too, I am really liking earthy tones at the moment and loved this sage green duvet set from Habitat. New candles this time of the year are essential too, they just make every room so cosy. I found some swirled candles on Etsy in lovely green and orange tones which I think would really compliment a lot of spaces, also found some pumpkin shaped candles in a pumpkin spice scent, I needed absolutely zero convincing to purchase those!

Patch Plants, Juliette, £22 | H&M, Block-coloured cushion cover, £12.99 | *Etsy, BeelightCandleCrafts, Spiral Candle Sticks, £3.58 | *Etsy, Kikobay, Pumpkin Halloween homemade candles, £16.95 | Habitat, Habitat Country Hideaway Linen Look Bedding Set, £30

Charlotte

I’ve really gone to town in spending on clothes over the summer and now I’m craving investing into my space a bit more. I’m lucky to have quite a big bedroom in my rented flat but the carpet is seriously not the one so I’ve been wanting a big rug since I moved in back in April. I’ve seen the Berber Stuff ones all over my Instagram this year and although they’re super spenny I think I’m going to bite the bullet and do it- eek! We know by now I’m a maximalist style lover through and through so my other picks are equally as fun and ‘out there’, the most pressing of which is the disco ball planter which I think is an essential purchase (I’m sure you will agree).

*Etsy, BerberStuffArtisanat, Moroccan Checkered rug, £122.85 | Harlie Brown Studio, Bonjour Monsieur Crabe!, £30 | *Etsy, RinseStudios, Rainbow Disco Ball Planter, £70 | *Trouva, Smiley Lamp Designed by Mr Maria, £125

Lareese

Autumn is all about cosying up and creating warmth in the home with blankets, seasonal scents and those glorious tones we’re treated to in nature at this time of year. I don’t go crazy with novelty bedding or anything like that but I always go ham on the autumnal candles, throws and twinkly lights on the fireplace. I might even go for a front door wreath this year!

Zara Home, GINGHAM CHECK BLANKET, £29.99 | *Liberty, BYREDO Tree House Candle, £59 | *Etsy, TheBizaarStore, Autumn Dried Flower Wreath, £62.50 | *Anthropologie, Pumpkin Harvest Dish Towel, £18 | *The White Company, Star Fairy Lights, £12

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Ding ding ding, the countdown to the scariest holiday of the year is on, and with less than 20 days to go, getting your home in order and looking suitably spooky is surely of the highest priority. Whether you’re a classy and minimal autumn interiors lover or use any opportunity to go 10/10 tacky to your full advantage, tablescaping (referring to “the Instagram trend of beautiful, and sometimes heavily decorated tables”) is one of the easiest but most effective ways to switch up your space seasonally.

Featuring everything from candlesticks, napkins, plates, glassware, flowers, gorgeous tablecloths and show-stopping centrepieces galore, keep scrolling for 10 totally unique and inspiring Halloween tablescape designs for every type of home

Via – @putnamflowers

Via – @johnlewis_alexandra

Easily achievable after a quick trip to your local supermarket, this classic take on a Halloween table is beautifully effective whilst being simple enough to appreciate throughout the month of October. Pile pumpkins, squashes and gourds across a central table runner and dress with a selection of dried fruit, eucalyptus, pinecones and other foliage of your choosing to create an impressive centrepiece for dinner parties galore.

Via – @cesileearanaevents

Via – @the.colour.emporium

For colour lovers, anyone celebrating with children or simply those who love to go all out, this classically gaudy candle centrepiece is the showstopper of all spooky tablescapes. Grab some candle holders of differing heights, a black tablecloth or backdrop to make your candles really pop and perhaps a side of water because y’know, fire hazard, and you’re good to go! Bonus points for faux spider webs to add that extra pizzazz.

Via – @dolloverme

Sticks and stones may break our bones, but they also make great Halloween centrepieces, FYI. Possibly the simplest of table designs to pop together this October, simply head into your garden or local park and collect the crème de la crème that nature has to offer for this earthy masterpiece.

Via – @labricoledeleenc

Via – @hello.meparty

For the parents and fun aunties out there, it’s time to get the novelty decorations out and make no apologies for it. Faux spiders, paper plates and an overdose of sugar are essentials here, as well as a bright and bold colour palette that screams Halloween to the max. Head to your local Pound Store or supermarket for all your table dressing needs and add a bottle of wine into the trolley whilst you’re at it- you’ll need it.

Via – @thepopupbnb

Via – @thefestivehaus

Dare we mention … Christmas? If you fancy nabbing some decor that can be used from October through to the ultimate dinner party season of December, then ditch the colours synonymous with Halloween and go classy with a red and green theme that won’t ever let you down. If you’re feeling bad and bougie then head to your local florist for the best dramatic blooms to recreate this floral masterpiece, otherwise grab some foliage from the garden and some red accent blooms from the supermarket (or faux flowers from Hobbycraft) and away you go. Finish with a dark tablecloth to make your centrepiece stand out and welcome in the compliments.

Via – @styleblueprint

Gingham lovers rejoice, this traditional countryside table design is everything we could want from a grown-up take on Halloween and more. Head to Oliver Bonas (or your local chazza shop) for colourful glassware and napkins and finish with some fresh blooms for an extra bit of spice and texture- the more the merrier we say.

First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?

I’m fine, thank you! My 2021 has been good so far. I wrote a novella, called Blind Spot, which will be published as part of The Reading Agency’s Quick Reads programme next year, and I had final copy edits to do on A Slow Fire Burning, which was published in August. Since the summer I’ve been doing publicity for the book – mostly online, but I’ve also been to a few festivals, so things are starting to feel a little more normal.

Can you tell us about your new book A Slow Fire Burning?

What was the process like for writing it after your initial idea?

The book started with me thinking about a particular character – a young woman called Laura, who suffers from a condition called disinhibition – but Laura was a character without a story. The challenge for me was finding the right story to tell. Once I had that, the writing process itself was very enjoyable (mostly).

It must have been incredible to see The Girl On The Train reach such incredible success so quickly, how did you adapt to the popularity of the novel?

It was exciting and quite bewildering; more a series of small moments than one grand realisation, so I think I adapted slowly, step by step. It took a while for me to realise quite how big the novel had become, and to appreciate what that would mean for me.

Did you find yourself ever suffering with imposter syndrome when writing after that success?

Yes. If you have a success on that kind of scale, I think it is natural to feel that it is in some sense undeserved, or that one has been disproportionately rewarded for one’s efforts! But that is the nature of this sort of work, criticism and praise are subjective, earnings are not neatly related to hours worked – I had plenty of experience of being completely ignored before I found success.

How do you think growing up in Zimbabwe has affected your writing style or perspective?

What have some of your favourite reads been this year?

Mrs Death Misses Death by Salena Godden, Lean Fall Stand by Jon McGregor, No One is Talking About This by Patricia Lockwood, The Turnout by Megan Abbott, Dream Girl by Laura Lippmann, Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason, The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak, Everyone Knows Your Mother is a Witch by Rivka Galchen. In terms of non-fiction, I loved Real Estate by Deborah Levy and The Devil You Know by Gwen Adshead and Eileen Horne.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

Work will save you!

What are you currently working on?

I haven’t started a new book yet, I’m in that in between phase, where I walk around a lot, thinking about the characters I want to write next, trying to figure out the story they belong in.

What does your perfect weekend look like?

That varies, but at the moment I’d probably say, dinner with friends Friday night, trip to the beach on Saturday, long walk and late pub lunch (possibly sliding slowly into dinner) on Sunday. In short, lots of food and fresh air and good company.

What do you always carry with you?

Phone, keys, sunglasses, lip balm and a book.

What would your last ever meal be?

Tricky. Maybe a ribeye with chips, maybe the perfect Cacio e Pepe? Quite possibly a really good spicy lamb chop.

What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?

Make your own money, try to save a little, keep your finances firmly under your own control. You never know when you might want to pack a bag and leave. 

Keep up with Paula Hawkins on Instagram here!