The light is changing, leaves are falling and there’s definitely a new chill in the air. Embrace these magical seasonal changes, wrap up and get into the fresh air at YSP – autumn is a brilliant time of year to visit.

This season there are several amazing new works outside to discover, and a new programme of exhibitions and events coming up indoors and out. With new autumn menus to try, gorgeous new products to browse (and buy) in our shops and YSP’s special and extensive landscape to explore.

If you're visiting over the October half term, pick up a Myths Magic and Haunting Tales trail sheet from the Information desk to help you explore, play outdoors in Little Wild Wood and get creative together in the Imagination Station.

Don't forget, kids visit for FREE and parking is FREE.

Walking boots at the ready!

Nothing beats an autumn walk, with crunchy leaves to wade through, perfect conkers to forage and a chance to enjoy the last of the sunshine before winter descends.

If you’re venturing down to the lake you might spot contractors working on the Cut Bridge, which crosses the waterway between the lakes. Vital restoration work is taking place on the bridge – one of only 5 cast iron bridges left in Yorkshire. The original iron structure will be restored, with 100s of years of paint removed and architectural details reinstated.

A diversion is in place until 20 December, taking you along the lakeside. Here you can spot sculptures and other hidden gems you may previously have missed – if you’ve not walked the route before it’s a great opportunity to discover something new!

Look out for Jaume Plensa’s Wilsis gazing out across the lake, and staff favourite Hazmat Love, surrounded by seasonal foliage and wildlife.

Wonders of nature

Slowing down and noticing what is around us in nature helps us to remember that we are part of something much bigger than just us, and does wonders for wellbeing.

We recommend taking a walk through the woodlands looking out for impressive funghi, berries and other seasonal delights. We say goodbye to our summer migratory birds who start their journeys south over the next few weeks, and prepare to welcome our winter visitors, who join our Yorkshire residents.

The heritage apple and pear trees in the Bothy Garden are full of fruit, a legacy from 17th century Bretton Hall resident Diana Beaumont who is responsible for planting the trees we enjoy today. The area behind the Bothy was once home to hot-houses growing pineapples and other tropical fruit – a nice link to in Bharti Kher’s Djinn who sits at the top of the hill under a halo of bananas!

Embrace the wonderful weather

We all know the phrase – ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather...only bad clothing!' – we wholeheartedly agree!

Don’t let rainy or windy days put you off – some of the best experiences can happen when you least expect.

If you need shelter, and a warming cup of tea or bowl of fresh soup, visit one of our cafes on site, before exploring indoor exhibitions.

Then grab your waterproofs and wellies and get exploring – crunch through autumn leaves, or wade through soggy lawn to enjoy the changing scenery and a new side to familiar sculptures outdoors. We recommend creating your own rain shadow on Andy Goldsworthy’s Shadow Stone Foldand paying a visit Skyspace to experience a unique meditative experience, made even more magical with rain falling through the centre of the space.

Book your tickets now!