Halloween fun, Rogues and Rascals, and three courses for £13

Afternoon, Swindon. The nip in the air, the smell of woodsmoke… hang on, it's still really sunny? I'm so excited about autumn that this week is packed.

Short on time? Head to Lotmead Farm for pumpkin picking anytime throughout October. It's only £2.50, it's lovely and it's my pick of the week. See what's on at Lotmead Farm.

Also in today's email: five more things to do, charity challenges and a theatre production I absolutely loved.

Step back in time and uncover the story behind a dramatic 17th-century brawl in Swindon, brought to life in this fascinating local history exhibition.
When: Wednesday 14 - Sunday 18 October · Where: Lydiard House Museum, SN5 3PA
Book your historic tour

Fancy a spooky film night? Watch Halloween favourites on a big screen beside historic Lydiard House, with food and drinks available on site. Choose from The Lost Boys, Coco, Hocus Pocus and more.
When: Friday 16 - Sunday 18 October · Where: Lydiard Park, SN5 3PA
Check tickets are left

Get into the festive spirit early with this classic ballet, featuring stunning costumes, beautiful choreography and Tchaikovsky’s iconic music.
When: Thursday 15 October · Where: Wyvern Theatre, SN1 1QN
Book the theatre

Pick your own pumpkin and enjoy a fun family friendly autumn day out, with a Halloween activity trail available throughout October.
When: Anytime throughout October · Where: Lotemead Farm, SN4 0SN
Plan your pumpkin picking trip

Swindon band Talk In Code are back in town! Catch the local favourites live at The Victoria for an evening of live music. Their new single, What I've Been Missing, is also due out this week.
When: Saturday 17 October · Where: The Victoria, SN1 3BD
Book tickets now

Swindon beats London for walking. Swindon has been named among the UK’s best places for walks, ranking ahead of the capital in a new list celebrating great places to explore on foot. Read the full story

The Kembrey Inn is reopening. The Swindon pub has become the first former Brewers Fayre restaurant to reopen under new management, with an expanded menu and breakfast service planned. Get the latest updates

Swindon supermarket staff take on charity challenge. Aldi staff in Stratton have completed a 24-hour cycling challenge to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust. Take a look

Get Three Courses for £13. The Blunsdon Arms is offering a fixed price lunch menu with one course for £8.79, two courses for £11.29 or three courses for £13.79, served Monday to Friday from 12pm–5pm. Find out more

Get 20% off at Burger Now & Mexican Now. Fancy burgers, tacos or loaded fries? Bag 20% off your order with discount code CT20. Perfect excuse to try the relaunched Swindon food spot! Visit their website

Enjoy a cheaper carvery. Toby Carvery at The Friary in Blunsdon advertises a £7 carvery, with a King Size option for £8.99. Check it out

Get a free drink at Balula’s Café & Deli. Fancy pizza for lunch? Grab a free drink with any pizza every Friday between 12pm and 3pm. Get the full details

Fancy a fun day out at Laser Quest Swindon? The School Holiday Mega Pass gets you five games, a combo meal and unlimited drinks for £20 per person. Students can also get three games for £15 every Tuesday with a valid student ID! Discover more

That's it from me this week. If you spot me at Open Studios, come and say hello.

One question for you: which café should I try next? Hit reply and tell me. I read every one, and the best tips make next week's email.

Keep it local,
Maddie x