Autumn is a season of plenty in The Workhouse vegetable garden with wonderfully shaped pumpkins and squashes adding splashes of vibrant colour at the National Trust property in Southwell. Visitors can purchase garden produce and get creative in preparation for Hallowe’en or join in with one of the autumnal events.

Those feeling brave enough can listen to Spooky Tales told by costumed Workhouse characters on Friday, 31 October from 12noon-4pm. Families can also get involved in making scary beasts at the Rats, Bats and Cats Craft Day on Wednesday, 29 October, 12noon-3.30pm (£3 make and take).

Other events this autumn see The Workhouse participating in both national and local initiatives. Picture a Pauper, part of ‘Big Draw’ on Sunday, 12 October from 12noon-4pm gives visitors the opportunity to create their own artwork using workhouse interiors, the garden and paupers in costume as inspiration. Apple Day is celebrated at The Workhouse on Saturday, 25 October 12noon-4pm, as part of the local Bramley Festival and includes apple themed tours and storytelling.

A new addition to the recreated Victorian vegetable garden is the scarecrow named after pauper inmate Tommy Tinker. Both Tommy and new information boards have been funded by a donation from the National Trust Nottingham Centre.

“Visitors have been spending much more time in the garden since we installed the new boards,” said Pat Berrisford, volunteer gardener. “We hope Tommy will become a talking point too. I am sure he would have liked that.”

Further details of these and other events can be found on: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/theworkhouse or by calling 01636 817260