places to visit in the uk in autumn

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23 of the Best Destinations to Enjoy England in Autumn

• Last Updated 3 September 2024

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The weather has officially turned, the leaves are changing, and Autumn has hit England with full force! But that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop exploring.

There are hundreds of amazing places to explore around the country. Like our amazing national parks, made all the more beautiful by autumn colours. Or our culture-rich cities, historic towns, and incredible heritage buildings. Or how about hitting the English coast for a windswept clifftop walk?

I’ve gathered recommendations from some top bloggers to create this list of the best destinations to enjoy autumn in England. From haunted Halloween destinations and quirky autumnal festivals, to glorious landscapes for hiking and adventure… there’s plenty to keep you busy this season!

Dorset AONB

The new forest.

• North Coast of Cornwall
• Westonbirt Arboretum, Cotswolds

Hadrian’s Wall Country

• Peak District
• Matlock Bath
• Forest of Dean

Stratford-upon-Avon

Grizedale forest .

• South Downs Way
• Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Bourton-on-the-water, Cotswolds

Autumn in england: the quicklist, best england autumn destinations.

There’s a map and a short version of this list at the bottom of this page. In the meantime, keep reading to discover the best Autumn destinations in England…

RELATED POST: Autumn Packing List for England

The Dorset National Landscape (formerly AONB) is one of the most spectacular places to visit during autumn in England. Few other regions can boast quite such an amazing range of landscapes.

Head to the rugged and wild Jurassic Coast for windswept hikes. Or to any of the historic seaside towns for cosy pubs and amazing seafood! Further inland, you can enjoy the autumn colours of the stunning Dorset countryside. Puddletown Forest, near Dorchester , is a brilliant choice! And nestled amongst the rolling hills of Purbeck, Corfe Castle is another fabulous place for an autumn hike.

Recommended by: Mal, Raw Mal Roams  

The New Forest is a National Park situated in Hampshire in the south of England . The New Forest is a great destination all year round, but visiting in Autumn can be particularly rewarding.

There are vast areas of gorgeous heathlands that in September turn pink and purple, creating a beautiful contrast with still, green pastures. The New Forest also has a large population of cute wild ponies. These live within the boundaries of the park and can be spotted in many locations.

A visit in October and early November will be rewarded with picturesque scenery. Enjoy the rich red and golden colours of trees shining in the autumn sun. The park has hundreds of different walking and cycling trails to choose from for every level. And when you get cold, head to Lymington. There, you can warm up with a hearty roast dinner in one of the cosy traditional pubs.

Recommended by: Suzanne from Meandering Wild

In autumn Cornwall becomes a serene and calm place.  After the bustle of the summer months, exploring the north coast is the perfect way to spend the autumn. 

The surf beaches in Bude and Newquay are quieter but the waves continue to be as good as they are in the summer. The autumn storms make clifftop walks invigorating.  Waves crash up the steep cliff faces and break over the harbour walls, a stunning and imposing force of nature. Inland, the small villages start to have a more cosy feel with pubs welcoming visitors with open fires.

As with other places the tourist spots are less visited. In autumn, Tintagel Castle,  Geevor Tin Mine  and Lands End are often a more pleasant experience where you can take your time to explore.

READ MORE: How to Spend 4 Days in St Agnes and the North Coast of Cornwall

Recommended by: Cath –  Travel Around Ireland

The Cotswolds area of England is a beautiful place to visit in Autumn. There is an abundance of woodlands and forests to wander through and enjoy the colourful spectacle that is autumn in England. Rivers meander alongside splashes of yellow, orange, red and brown.

Along with the natural woodlands, you can also visit some arboreta in the area. None are more beautiful than Westonbirt Arboretum . Located near the picturesque town of Tetbury, Westonbirt delights visitors with autumn colours from late September to early November.

In the Old Arboretum, visitors can see stunning colours from oaks, horse chestnuts and acers. While over in the Silk Road part of the arboretum, the landscape is awash with colours from trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world. Make sure to visit the Maple Loop to see the stunning Japanese Acers.

Recommended by: Monique at tripanthropologist.com

Hadrian’s Wall extends for 73 miles (or 80 Roman miles) across northern England from Bowness-on-Solway on the west coast, to Wallsend in the east. Northern England in the shadow of the wall is known as Hadrian’s Wall Country. You know you’ve arrived when you start driving on the extremely straight Roman roads!

The moors turn golden in Autumn and the hordes of hikers completing the whole, or just sections, of Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, are much reduced from their peak summer numbers. It’s hard to explain the remote feeling in the Scottish borderlands. It’s just you, the wind, and the sheep, following this ancient Wall built as the most northern outpost of Roman Britannica.

Cycle, camp, and explore the forts along the Wall (such as Housesteads and Birdoswald). Take one of the many  Hadrian’s Wall walks , and hike the National Trail among the stunning Autumn foliage in northern England!

Recommended by: Jenny, Peak District Kids

The Peak District is a beautiful destination all year round with its green rolling meadows and dramatic escarpments. But come Autumn, the heather moors and woodlands turn to their rusty hues and the morning chill brings impressive cloud inversions in the valleys.

On those crisp blue-sky days, there’s nothing better than a long walk in the hills or along an escarpment to appreciate the season. Followed, of course, by a hearty home-cooked meal next to a roaring log fire in a cosy village pub.

Our favourite walks for this time of year are Baslow Edge or  Padley Gorge . Or perhaps stroll the impressive Chatsworth Estate (it’s free to walk through). Alternatively, hop on your bike and enjoy one of the many traffic-free cycle trails along disused railway tracks.

Recommended by: Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!  

Matlock Bath in Derbyshire is a great Autumn destination in England. Starting mid-September and running until the beginning of November is the annual Matlock Bath Illuminations .

The illuminations date back to 1897, when they were first held to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. There are lights strung around the town and Derwent gardens. There’s also a fantastic, illuminated model boat parade along the River Derwent. To this day the parade still features one ‘candle-lit’ boat in the traditional Victorian style.

The boat parade and shows are open every weekend from 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Other attractions include a live band, craft stalls and a firework display. It can get very busy, especially on Saturdays, so we recommend  booking tickets in advance . Matlock Bath has a few accommodation options and you must try the fish and chips during your visit.

Recommended by: Nichola, Globalmouse Travels

Bristol is the perfect Autumn destination in England. The city has delightful outdoor walks, an iconic skyline, and tree-lined boulevards which look perfect as the days shorten and the leaves turn red and yellow.

Start your visit by exploring the Georgian streets of Clifton Village. Enjoy a stroll across the world-famous Suspension Bridge, and grab a bite to eat at the tranquil Clifton Lido. Don’t forget to take a little shopping trip around the independent shops in the historic Victorian Arcade.

Head into the city centre, passing Banksy’s unmistakable art on Park Street. If you’re looking for  things to do in Bristol with kids  make sure that you pop into We the Curious . This interactive hands-on science museum is perfect for rainy days. There’s also an aquarium nearby. If you’re peckish don’t miss Za Za Bazaar, a huge world street food restaurant all under one roof. 

Recommended by: Rose, Where Rose Goes

Oxford is a lovely destination to visit any time of year. However, the red leaves against golden stone are particularly Instagrammable in autumn. There are also many cosy cafes, like Georgina’s Cafe in the Covered Market. Perfect for curling up with a cuppa or hot chocolate with marshmallows!

Whether you’re visiting as a day trip or spending a weekend in Oxford , there’s plenty to keep you busy. Even if you have bad weather, you can nip out to explore the main Oxford attractions. Most of these are conveniently close together like the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Libraries and Bridge of Sighs.

The many museums like the Ashmolean and Pitt Rivers are fantastic places to shelter from the cold and learn about Oxford in days gone by. At the Pitt Rivers, you can see the world’s only dodo tissue remains. It’s thought these inspired Charles Dodgson (pen name, Lewis Carroll) to write the Alice in Wonderland books.

Recommended by: Dymphe, Dymabroad

London is a great city to discover, especially in autumn! There are plenty of places for a great autumn experience, as you can see beautiful autumn colours everywhere.

One of the best places for this is Kynance Mews. This is a street with a stunning entrance gate that’s covered by many red leaves in autumn. Kynance Mews is one of the  best photo spots in London as well!

Another beautiful place to visit is Hyde Park, where thousands of trees create incredible autumn scenery. Going to Kew Gardens is also a fun thing to do. This is a beautiful botanic garden – and the colours at Kew Gardens are gorgeous during autumn!

Recommended by: Richard, RJ on Tour

Located towards the west of Gloucestershire is the stunning ancient woodland of The Forest of Dean . It comprises of 100 square kilometres of mixed woodland to explore on foot or riding a bike. Autumn is special in the Forest of Dean due to the fantastic colours of the trees. This is also a great time for spotting wildlife, as creatures are busy preparing for the winter months.

Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja

York is a fantastic destination in England to visit in autumn. While the city is beautiful year-round, seeing the leaves change colour as you stroll around the City Walls or through Museum Gardens is a must!

There are also several fantastic festivals that take place in York during this time of year. The York Food and Drink Festival brings together some of the best foodie experiences in the area. The York Beer and Cider Festival takes place over a September weekend at the racecourse. And the York Balloon Fiesta is a completely free multi-day festival in the autumn as well!

Sometimes called the “Most Haunted City in Europe,” York is great for visiting around Halloween, too. Attractions like the York Dungeon and York Maze are ideal. Or exploring the city on a ghost tour will spook both adults and kids alike.

READ MORE: A Local’s Guide to York

Recommended by: Michele, The Intrepid Guide

What makes Stratford-upon-Avon so wonderful is that you can literally walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare. From where he was born, where he was educated, and where he lived, through to his final resting place. The perfect time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon and explore its country gardens is in Autumn. Not only have the crowds died down, but the trees are covered in electric red, orange, and yellow leaves. 

Some of the best things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon include a canal tour along the River Avon and a visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace. You should also visit Shakespeare’s New Place for its extensive gardens decorated with Shakespeare-inspired sculptures.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is also a must-see for its gorgeous Tudor building set in a quintessential English garden. To complete your Shakespearean experience, see one of Shakespeare’s plays. These are regularly performed at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre located in the centre of town. Before the show, head up to the terrace of a riverside dinner.

RELATED POST: Most Romantic Places in Britain

Recommended by: Nisha and Vasu from Le Monde, the Poetic Travels  

The sight of leaves changing colours, the shining golds and browns cloaking the ground and the smell of fresh-scented air; there’s something about autumn that makes everything magical. Grizedale forest is no different when it comes to Autumn in England’s Lake District. The forest is made up of a number of hills, small tarns, and tall trees.

The well-marked walking trails vary in length from 1.5km to 16km. You can find child & elderly-friendly ability trails, as well as more strenuous ones. An ability trail has a mostly flat surface, plenty of sculptures, cafe and many resting places. They also have some beautiful views of the Grizedale valley!

Strenuous walks take you to the highest point with spectacular 360-degree views. I recommend the Carron Crag walk and the Tarn walk. There are also cycling trails varying from 3.5km to 23.5km. These are away from vehicular traffic and still have lots of sculptures along the way. 

Recommended by: Kenny, Knycx Journeying 

England’s Lake District has long been a popular destination for those looking to get away from their busy schedules. It’s the perfect place to just kick back, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Windermere is the largest natural lake in England. Its town is usually crowded in summer as there are many summer homes in the area. It quiets down a little bit in autumn, however, and the weather is perfect for visitors to explore the area with less crowds.

Hop on a sightseeing cruise to Ambleside, go hiking to the Hill Top, or take a scenic train ride on Lakeside’s Haverthwaite Railway. All that will also be rewarded under the backdrop of incredible foliage that’s hard to forget. 

Recommended by: Claire, Stoked to Travel

The South Downs Way is a 100-mile-long National Trail stretching from the charming cathedral city of Winchester to the beach town of Eastbourne . Whilst you could of course hike or bike the trail in its entirety, you could also opt to walk sections of the route.

For example, the section from Lewes to Alfriston. This is my personal favourite part of the South Downs Way as it leaves the bustling and historic market town of Lewes, before winding its way through the gorgeous British countryside to the quaint village of Alfriston. This is the perfect place for a spot of afternoon tea and a warm-up.

You can also stop by the beautiful orchard at the Alfriston Clergy House to pick one of the English varieties of apple grown here. Or why not collect a pumpkin from their annual crop and take home to cook up a tasty, hearty autumn soup!

Recommended by: Darek and Gosia

Autumn in England doesn’t have to be grey and gloomy. In fact, there are many sunny days, which are just perfect for planning a trip to see some of the most beautiful English towns. One of our favourite destinations in autumn is Marlow in Buckinghamshire .

From walking alongside the River Thames to visiting Marlow Locks – there is so much to see in this little town. If you fancy exploring the river on your own, then you can hire a boat from the Little Green Boat Company. It’s a great experience and it will give you a different perspective of the town.

Midsomer Murders fans will definitely recognise some of the spots from many episodes of the crime drama. Including the beautiful Two Brewers pub. So, there is no better time to visit the town than this autumn!

Recommended by: Emily, London City Calling

Lincoln is a small English city in the East Midlands known for its striking medieval Cathedral, an impressive castle and many narrow cobblestone streets.

Lincoln makes a great autumn destination in England. Not only does the charming city look beautiful shrouded in autumnal colours, but there are also plenty of things to do in Lincoln both indoors and outside.

You can visit the stunning Lincoln Cathedral and wander around the city’s many charming independent shops. Be sure to explore Lincoln Castle, home to a Victorian prison and a copy of the Magna Carta. And if the rain does happen to hit, there are plenty of cute cafes and cosy pubs around the city. So you can step inside for a drink while you wait for the weather to pass.

Plus, to really get into the autumnal spirit, there are several pumpkin patches close to Lincoln including the beautiful Maxeys Farm Shop.

Recommended by: Joanna, The World in My Pocket

Windsor is a great destination to visit year-round if you are passionate about the Royal family. However, when autumn hits England, it becomes even more charming because of the beautiful warm colours of Windsor Park.

There are quite a few things to do on  a day trip to Windsor , but in autumn you shouldn’t miss the Long Walk. This is a 3km avenue connecting Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse Statue of King Charles II on his horse.

Mostly unchanged since the 11 th  century when it was a hunting ground, the long walk is divided between Windsor Park and the Deer Park. The latter is home to around 200 red deer. These are used to people walking up and down the avenue and are easily spotted among the yellow leaves of the hundred years old oak trees.

Recommended by: Anu, Country Hopping Couple

Bourton-on-the-water is one of our favourite spots to visit during autumn. A classic Cotswold village, Bourton-on-the-water is also known as Venice of the Cotswolds, because of its picturesque stone bridges and gently flowing River Windrush. On a crisp autumn day, take a stroll along the river admiring the quaint limestone houses. Or stop by at one of their famous tea rooms.

Bourton-on-the-water has a plethora of things to do, considering how small the village is. One of the finest ways to enjoy the autumnal scenes is to take a hike. Perhaps the one from Upper Slaughter via Lower Slaughter, following along River Eye.

Alternatively, you can visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum or Model Village, a miniature version of Bourton-on-the-water. For a sweet treat, head to The Den. This mighty little cafe serves the yummiest cakes and muffins!

Recommended by: Amy, The Travel Fairies

Whitby is the perfect place to visit in Autumn because of its association with the story of Dracula. Not only did a visit to Whitby inspire Bram Stoker’s book, but it’s also a setting within the story itself. There’s nothing like seeing Whitby Abbey dominating the town on an overcast Autumn day to truly feel the Dracula vibe.

Ghost walks, Paranormal Nights and Dracula experiences can be found in Whitby around Halloween. The Abbey is also illuminated to make it even more dramatic.

If you’re not into all that spooky stuff, the coastline is perfect for feeling the brisk Autumn wind. The nearby forest and moorland are alive with the changing colours and whales can even be spotted migrating to warmer climates.

Recommended by: Diana, Travels in Poland

Between beautiful chapels, a university or two, a botanical garden and a quintessential autumn feel, Cambridge is an ideal autumn destination in England.

Some of the most beautiful fall foliage can be found at the Cambridge University Botanical Garden. With over 16 hectares, visitors can spend several hours wandering the trails, visiting the humid interior greenhouses or simply enjoying a picnic on the grounds. Visiting King’s College Chapel or St. John’s College brings you to some fantastic grounds where you can easily follow up with some season-end punting. Pop in and out of some great local establishments for dessert or dinner and walk the chilly evening air in the lit streets of Cambridge.

Recommended by: Me!

Bath is beautiful all year round, but when autumn hits in England this stunning little city is an ideal destination. The honey-coloured stone of the city centre looks gorgeous against the red and gold leaves, especially along the banks of the River Avon.

There are plenty of indoor things to do, too – such as the iconic Roman Baths. So even if it rains the whole time you can still enjoy a weekend in Bath ! And, of course, this is a spa town which means plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind. Soak up the healing waters – and the city views – from the toasty comfort of the Thermae Spa rooftop pool!

England Autumn Destinations: Map

• Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
• The New Forest, Hampshire
• Hadrian’s Wall Country
• Stratford-Upon-Avon
• Grizedale Forest
• Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds

Are there any more great places to visit in England during Autumn? Scroll down to share your favourites in the comments!

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2 thoughts on “23 of the Best Destinations to Enjoy England in Autumn”

Hey Emily! Thanks for sharing this post. Oxford is my favorite, no matter what part of year it is, I don’t have any specific reason for this choice but I think I have some special associations with it.

It is a very lovely city!! I have friends there so have visited many times, it’s such a beautiful place!

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 11 Places to Visit in the UK in Autumn

Today I want to bring you A Lady in London’s guide to the best places to visit in the UK in autumn. There are a lot of great fall travel destinations in Britain and the next few months are perfect for discovering the best of the season.

Visiting the UK in Autumn

One of the best things about visiting the UK in autumn is that fewer people do it than in summer. You’ll benefit from sparser crowds while you travel, not to mention shoulder season travel deals and less traffic if you drive.

And if you’re concerned about the weather, don’t be. The British weather is unpredictable at the best of times, so you’re just as likely to encounter raindrops in June as in October.

If you have the right clothes and a good umbrella, you’ll be fine no matter the weather. My autumn packing list can help. If you’re in the UK, I also recommend this umbrella . If you’re in the US, this one is ideal .

If you love colorful leaves, it’s a great season to be in the UK. The timing of the autumn foliage changes each year, but the hues are usually at their best in late October and early November. You can check before you go to make sure.

Places to Visit in the UK in Autumn

So where should you travel? My list of places to visit in the UK in autumn comes from my own experiences. I’ve been to all the places on this list in autumn, and can personally attest to how great they are. If you go, I’m guessing you’ll agree.

1. The New Forest in Autumn

First on my list is the New Forest National Park . This wooded area in the south of the UK is one of the most beautiful places in England in fall. In fact, it’s one of the best places to travel in autumn in general.

The New Forest is full of everything from cozy pubs to the area’s signature ponies. The latter can be spotted all over the national park, and they’re exciting to come across on country walks.

The New Forest is perfect in fall because its heathland, woods, and glades turn bright with the season. It’s an amazing place to travel if you love the outdoors and autumn foliage.

Given its proximity to the UK capital, it’s an easy autumn day trip or weekend getaway from London , too.

2. Cotswolds in Autumn

Next on my list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn is the Cotswolds. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is beautiful at any time, but a number of places come into their own in the fall.

The Westonbirt Arboretum is a great example. One of the most important of its kind in the UK, its trees burst with red, orange, and yellow hues in the autumn. It’s worth planning a trip to coincide with the season.

Beyond the leaves, autumn is a great time to be in the Cotswolds because the crowds are thinner than in peak season.

Places like Arlington Row in Bibury and the high street in Burford are much calmer than in summer, and Cotswolds villages like Painswick , Sapperton, and Upper Slaughter are ripe for visiting.

If you want to learn more, you can read about my autumn weekend in the Cotswolds and see photos of what the area looks like this season.

3. Nottingham in Autumn

In the Midlands, Nottingham is another of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn. This underrated city in Britain is home to Robin Hood lore and historic castles and streets.

Nottingham is a great place to visit for its beautiful buildings, heritage architecture, and fun shopping. It’s also home to one of the oldest pubs in England, the famous Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem.

Add to that Nottingham’s proximity to the legendary Sherwood Forest, which comes alive with fall colors this season, and it’s a great place to travel in autumn.

4. Pen Y Fan in Autumn

Out west, the Brecon Beacons National Park is one of my favorite places to visit in the UK in autumn. This area is beautiful for weekend breaks in Wales , and is the perfect spot to get into nature in Britain.

But if there’s one place I would go in the Brecon Beacons in fall, it’s Pen Y Fan . The highest peak in South Wales, it’s the perfect place to hike and a beautiful destination for getting outdoors this season.

Early autumn is the perfect time to summit Pen Y Fan, as the summer walking crowds are gone, the days are still long enough to get a big hike in, and the weather can be just right for a climb.

5. Yorkshire Dales in Autumn

Back in England, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is another of the top places to visit in the UK in autumn for great hikes, country walks , and challenging climbs.

The Yorkshire Dales are perfect for getting outdoors in autumn, as they’re less busy than in the summer and there’s a lot of picturesque scenery to take in.

From waterfalls to rock formations, this part of Britain has a lot going for it when it comes to aesthetics.

Whether you want to climb one of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, meander along the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, or do a quick walk to Malham Cove, there’s something for every skill and ability level here.

6. Northumberland in Autumn

I included the Northumberland coast on my list of places to visit in the UK in summer , but I want to include the inland areas in my autumn list.

That’s not least because Northumberland’s natural beauty comes alive in autumn, and there are great places to see fall foliage and seasonal colors in this part of northern England.

One of my favorite places to travel in Northumberland in autumn is Cragside. This 19th-century country house is perched on a rocky hill and is surrounded by trees with beautiful leaves in fall.

Cragside also has over 30 miles (48 kilometers) of footpaths and trails, making it a great place to soak up the seasonal hues in autumn.

7. Penrhyn Castle in Autumn

Back in Wales, Penrhyn Castle is one of the ideal places to visit in the UK in autumn. If you love a good historic house, it’s the perfect one for you to visit this season. It also makes a great stop on a road trip in North Wales .

Built in the 19th century, Penrhyn Castle is a Victorian fantasy on the Welsh coast. From towers and turrets to gardens and museums, this most beautiful of castles in Wales is packed with things to explore.

Penrhyn Castle is just the house to visit in autumn because of the stunning vines that climb its walls. The red hues are spectacular and make for great photos.

8. Kent in Autumn

In southeast England, Kent is one of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn. This is not least because the vineyards and orchards around the county come alive with fall colors.

This area is famous for its drinks , and there’s great wine and cider tasting in Kent . From winery tasting rooms to cider producers’ cellar doors, there are lots of places to sip and savor in autumn surroundings this season.

Kent is also full of historic castles with grounds that come alive with the colors of autumn, so there’s a lot to see in the Garden of England in the coming months.

From Leeds Castle to Walmer Castle near Deal , there are plenty of historic fortresses where you can take in seasonal foliage.

9. Southern Scotland in Autumn

Up in Scotland, there are a lot of great places to visit along the border with England this season. From the Scottish Borders to the west coast, this part of Scotland comes alive with colors.

Whether you want to take a country walk in The Cheviots, visit the Jane Austen site of Gretna Green, or spend a day out visiting a home like Traquair House, the oldest continually inhabited house in Scotland, there are lots of great things to do in southern Scotland in autumn.

While this under-the-radar part of the UK is never crowded with tourists, autumn is still a great time to visit for the seasonal colors relaxed pace of life.

10. Robin Hood’s Bay in Autumn

When it comes to the coast, Robin Hood’s Bay is one of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn. Not only is it one of the prettiest villages in Britain , but also one of the most beautiful places in the UK at this time of year.

Robin Hood’s Bay is great in autumn because the peak season crowds are gone, the village pubs are cozy for dinners by candlelight, and the coastal walks show off stunning seasonal scenery.

Add to that the fact that the narrow lanes winding their way up the hill from the waterfront are empty of people, and fall is the perfect time to travel here.

11. London in Autumn

I can’t help rounding out my list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn with London. The UK capital is a great place to be this season, not least because there’s so much to see and do here.

Visiting London in autumn not only means sparser crowds than in summer, but also great seasonal scenery in places like Hyde Park . The leaves in Hampstead Heath in autumn are stunning, too.

There are lots of seasonal events in the UK capital in autumn as well. From October food festivals in London to Bonfire Night and the Lord Mayor’s Show , there’s something for everyone.

Add to that great colors for autumn walks in London and the prospect of exciting autumn day trips from London , and there are a lot of reasons to visit the city in fall.

Best Places to Visit in the UK in Autumn

I hope my list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn has inspired you to travel in Britain in the fall. I fell in love with all these places and I have a feeling you will as well.

If you’re visiting later in the year and need more inspiration, take a look at my list of the best places to visit in the UK in winter , too. Happy travels!

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4 Comments on Lady’s 11 Places to Visit in the UK in Autumn

I’ve visited London in autumn before and it’s so lovely – just as you say, Hyde Park and Hamstead Heath – so beautiful! Even just the smaller Green Park – I remember people sitting and playing in the lovely coloured leaves and taking photos of each other. 😀

That’s great!

Dear Lady in London, Would you recommend a tourism agent/agency that can do all these places in one trip? I’m going to England with my husband on September and would love to know the places you’ve mentioned. We have time, will stay until mid October. Thanks and best wishes, Zelia

Thanks! I do that kind of planning. Please see the Travel Planning Services page of my blog for information on how I can help you.

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Six Reasons for an Autumn Getaway in the UK

Is autumn a good time to visit the UK? We think it’s one of the best times, and here’s why;

• The fall season in the UK is simply stunning, with vibrant autumn colors across cities and landscapes, and the low sun and early morning mists shrouding the countryside and architecture, making every vista Instagram-worthy!
• The weather will still have a bit of summer warmth, and an Indian summer in September is a real possibility.
• Fewer tourists travel during the autumn months, they’re all hunkering down for the winter to come or recovering from their summer holidays, so attractions and tours are quieter.
• Flights, car rental, hotels, and holiday homes will be cheaper during the shoulder season months between summer and winter, making the UK in the fall a budget friendly option.
• Seasonal food is at its best in autumn, with the harvest in and many specialties available. Think delicious woody mushrooms, slowly caramelized pumpkins, sweet roasted chestnuts, and newly picked apples, and you have the flavors of autumn.
• Autumn festivals are common in the UK, as the country celebrates a successful summer and gets ready for the cold of winter. Think Guy Fawkes or Bonfire Night and Harvest Festival when the bounty of the land is celebrated.

Weather in UK in Autumn

When is autumn in the UK? Autumn starts on 1st September and ends on 30th November every year.

Early autumn is usually warm and if you’re lucky you might get an Indian summer in September. However, if you’re travelling for those autumn colors, you’re unlikely to see much of a change during September, as it’s the cold that causes trees to become dormant and the leaf colour to change.

In the south of the country in early autumn you can expect average temperatures to be around 14 to 18° celsius (57 to 64° fahrenheit) during the day and in Scotland, 10° celsius (50° fahrenheit).

The further north, and the deeper into autumn you go, the more unpredictable the weather becomes. This is the season of high winds and rain, so always pack a waterproof coat and shoes or boots.

UK Travel Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for travelling in the United Kingdom.

• Search for affordable flights to England with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in UK with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in UK with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in UK with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Autumn UK Destinations Map

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Cairngorms National Park, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

Explored by Sophie & Adam of We Dream of Travel

Scotland is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, and during the autumn season the trees come ablaze in a myriad of warm tones. One place in particular where these are at their best is the Cairngorms National Park , situated in the eastern Scottish Highlands. 

Covering 1,748 square miles, Cairngorms is the largest national park in the British Isles, larger than both the Lake District and the Peak District combined. As such, it covers a diverse variety of landscape including mountains, heather moorlands, forest, wetlands and even a sandy beach at Loch Morlich! The Cairngorms should definitely be included on your Scotland itinerary .

The spectacular autumn colours can be seen throughout the park and can be enjoyed by taking a walk or bike ride along one of the many routes, making the Cairngorms one of the best UK autumn breaks for activity lovers. 

Munro bagging is a popular activity in Scotland – summiting one of the mountains over 3000ft (known as Munros!). There are 282 Munros in Scotland and over 50 of them are located in Cairngorms National Park, including the second highest peak in the UK – Ben Macdui. Bagging a Munro while hiking through colourful foliage is definitely one of the best ways to enjoy the autumn season!

RELATED POST – Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips

Other Things to Do Nearby

There are plenty of other things to do in this outdoor lovers paradise such as shooting, fishing, water sports, bungee jumping, golf, mountain biking and hiking. 

For those who prefer more gentle pursuits, there are  six whisky distilleries in the national park and  eight Scottish castles  to visit as well as following the Outlander Trail. It is also home to Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer! 

Just an hour away is the vibrant and lively city of  Aberdeen , a great start or finish point for any Cairngorms trip.

• Stay at Muckrach Country Manor Hotel in Grantown On Spey. With five star reviews, this restored hunting lodge is one of the best hotels in the area and oozes Scottish hospitality and cosy autumn style. On the edge of the national park, the views from the ten acre hotel estate are spectacular and the hotel can organise all sorts of activities and adventures.

Stourhead Gardens, Wiltshire, England

Explored by Suzanne of Meandering Wild

Stourhead Gardens are part of the National Trust Stourhead House in Wiltshire in south west England, just a short distance from the main A303 at Mere. Designed and built between 1741 and 1780 these classic British gardens have been attracting visitors since they opened in 1740.

The gardens were inspired by the buildings in Rome with the lakeside Pantheon being the largest building in the grounds. Smaller grottos and temples are dotted around the large lake.

In autumn the trees turn into a spectacular riot of colour which is reflected in the lake.  They frame the old buildings in a show of amber and red which makes them feel as if they have been in the landscape forever.

The trees and colours are best viewed from the lakeside and it is worth walking around the water to see the display from all the different angles and in different lights. Stourhead is particularly beautiful in the morning when the Pantheon and Grotto are in sunlight.

The gardens regularly see engagements taking place, there are several spots perfect for a proposal, making Stourhead a great destination for romantic breaks!

If you are feeling energetic then walking out to King Alfred’s Tower and climbing to the top will give you stunning views across Wiltshire and Somerset and the full colour of the autumn landscape.

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Stourhead sits in a perfect triangle and you could  spend a day in Bath , Salisbury or Stonehenge. Or base yourself close to Stourhead and visit both beautiful historic cities and the  awe-inspiring Stonehenge  and Avebury Stone Circle over a long weekend break. 

Longleat House and Safari Park  is just ten minutes away, both the historic Elizabethan house and safari park make a perfect day out for a family holiday. There are also lots of National Trust and English Heritage properties in the area, you just need to choose which one to visit!

• Stay at the  Castleton House B&B  in Mere, just a few miles from Stourhead. You’ll be warmly welcomed to this charming and comfortable B&B, which makes the perfect base for exploring the area and serves an amazing full English breakfast to set you up for the day!

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Gloucestershire, England

Explored by Helena of Helena Bradbury

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, is a Forestry England park, tucked away in the South Cotswolds in Gloucestershire. Just 30 minutes from Bristol and and an easy road trip from London , Westonbirt Arboretum is a must-visit in the southwest to see beautiful autumn colours.

Although the arboretum is open year-round for visitors to enjoy and connect with nature, it really comes into its own during the autumn months! From fiery Japanese Maples to vibrant yellow Acers, the range of colours is stunning and there are infinite pathways and trails to see it all from. 

With over 600 acres and 2,500 species of trees, you could spend hours exploring, but to find the best autumn colours head to the Colour Circle and Acer Glade area or walk round the Loop Trail. This is where you can freely walk among the beautiful red Maple trees and vivid yellow Acers.

On the other side of the park, you’ll find the Treetop Walkway which leads to the Concord Glade. Although the trees here are less vivid, the range of greens, yellow and oranges are still just as beautiful to see from the walkway above.

On the edge of the Cotswolds and within an easy drive of Bath, Cirencester, Gloucester and Bristol, this area of outstanding natural beauty in the south west of England has much to see and do. 

Spend a weekend in historic Bath  and take a dip in the thermal waters or take a cycle tour of the Cotswolds  and visit the gardens of  Highgrove House .

• Stay at the Hare and Hounds Hotel . With a Trip Adviser Travellers Choice award in 2020, this traditional English country house hotel is on the doorstep of the Arboretum, just a mile away and boasts a popular bar and restaurant with cozy decor and log fires – perfect for autumn short breaks and exploring the local area.

Is this your first time visiting the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Glenariff Forest, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland

Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders

Known as the Queen of the Glens,  Glenariff  is one of nine glens in Antrim and is widely considered to be the most beautiful. One of the  must-sees on the island of Ireland , Glenariff Forest Park is a National Nature Reserve and covers over 1,000 hectares with planted woodland, lakes and waterfalls which are glorious in autumn.

The timber walkway that winds through the park and glen alongside the river gorge was built around 100 years ago and have been carefully renovated to provide a wonderful 3km trail known as the Waterfall Walk. The route takes you through the park, passing three rushing waterfalls and clear pools en route. Make sure you take sturdy footwear as the wooden boards can get slippery with waterfall spray and leaves.

The wider forest is home to many endangered species, including the red squirrel, Irish hare and hen harrier bird. Try the 9km  Scenic Trail , one of several longer walking routes through the forest which give spectacular views and glimpses of wildlife and the stunning surroundings ablaze with vivid autumn colours. 

The trail takes you to the Inver River gorge, almost to the Ess-na-Crub Waterfall. After crossing the river, you begin a long and winding climb gaining around 200m of elevation over a kilometre. At the top of the climb there are spectacular views over the Glen and across the sea as far as the Mull of Kintyre.

RELATED POST – Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?

Game of Thrones fans will love Northern Ireland, there are nine iconic filming locations to search out along the north east Antrim coast. Just an hour away, is the breathtaking Giant’s Causeway , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a must see when visiting this corner of the UK.

If you have more than a few days, drive the  Causeway Coastal Route  to see the wonderful land of myth and legends that is Northern Ireland. If you prefer the bright lights, head an hour south and visit Belfast , a vibrant and welcoming city coming into its own as a tourist destination after years of conflict. 

• Stay at Portnagolan House B&B at Cushendell, a fifteen minute drive north from the forest. This homely B&B has lush gardens and stunning sea views from its elevated position, which is just a few minutes away from the local village.

Gorge of Killiecrankie, Perthshire, Scotland

Explored by Heather of Conversant Traveller

Just three miles north of Pitlochry the dramatic  Killiecrankie Gorge  is one of the most spectacular locations for seeing the autumn colours in Scotland. This National Trust conservation area has a circular woodland walk along the River Garry, starting at the visitor centre and taking in all the major sites of the gorge.

The footpaths are fairly easy to negotiate, but sturdy footwear is advised especially if it’s been raining recently. The forested riverbanks are a riot of golds, oranges, yellows and reds during September and October, and the footbridge over the water at the Pass of Killiecrankie is a favourite spot for taking photographs.

The gorge of Killiecrankie is one of the best places to visit in Perthshire for historians, as it was the site of one of the bloodiest battles during the Jacobite Risings in 1689. It’s well worth walking up to the viewpoint at Soldier’s Leap, where a Redcoat soldier is reported to have jumped eighteen feet across the ravine to escape the pursuing Jacobites.

Salmon can often be seen jumping around the falls here and keep an eye out for red squirrels and woodpeckers which are quite prolific during autumn.

This is a truly beautiful corner of Scotland. Visit nearby  Faskally Wood which is transformed into The Enchanted Forest in autumn, complete with music and lights which illuminate the trees with beautiful bright colours. 

Head for the  Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre , where you’ll find incredible views over the river Tummel, before heading upstream to the  Braur waterfalls to try your hand at canyoning !

• Stay at Craigatin House and Courtyard . This well positioned Victorian property offers well designed and chic bedrooms and a stunning extension which houses the dining room, where you’ll enjoy a hearty and delicious Scottish breakfast.

The New Forest, Hampshire, England

No list of the best autumn breaks would be complete without including  The New Forest . Designated a national park in 2005, this ancient forest was once a hunting ground for William the Conquerer and is an easy day or weekend trip from London .

Today, the forest covers an area of 566 km2 and is made up of huge areas of unspoilt woodland and heathland divided by river valleys, and a beautiful coastline. This haven for wildlife will reward you with sightings of New Forest ponies, deer, cattle and pigs which roam freely amongst the ancient landscape.

The New Forest countryside transforms over autumn, with huge swathes of vibrant colours and atmospheric misty mornings followed by crisp days, perfect for exploring.

The abundant heather is stunning in September with vibrant pinks and purples contrasting with with the yellowing leaves of the deciduous trees of the forest, displaying some of the best autumn colours in the UK.

A wonderful setting for hiking, cycling, water sports and all manner of outdoor activities, and close enough to London for a last minute getaway from the city, The New Forest makes a perfect weekend break whatever the time of year. Autumn just adds to the experience!

RELATED POST – Top 16 New Forest Outdoor Activities

There is so much to do in The New Forest that you’ll probably want to spend most of your break there. But if you have longer and want to explore further afield, head for Hurst Castle , built by Henry VIII on Hurst Spit in the Solent, towards the western borders of the forest. 

The Historic city of Salisbury is just ten miles north.  With its soaring cathedral spire and  Stonehenge  on the doorstep, it makes for a great day out.

• Stay at Cottage Lodge Hotel in Brockenhurst, deep in the heart of the forest. This ultra friendly family run hotel got a Trip Adviser Travellers Award in 2020 – no surprise when you are offered tea and cake on arrival!  You’ll also find individually styled cosy rooms and charming period features, lending this hotel a home from home feel.

Elan Valley, Powys, Wales

Elan Valley is a stunning area rich with wildlife and nature in the heart of  Mid Wales and perfect for a family break , autumn holidays or a Welsh road trip.

The valley comes alive with colour in the autumn months as the heather and bracken cover the landscape in vibrant shades of orange and brown. Inhabited since the stone age, the rural valley is now famous for its spectacular dams and scenery.

The nearest large town is Rhayader, on The Cambrian Way, a hiking route which spans 298 miles from Conwy in North Wales, over the Brecon Beacons to Cardiff in the south.

Enjoy a hike or bike ride around one of the reservoirs of the valley or gain some height amongst the rocky crags and admire the striking autumn colours of the trees and their reflections in the still waters.

Visit all of the six dams of the Elan Valley to really appreciate the history of these beautifully designed and engineered masterpieces.

Over 80% of the valley is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), home to reservoirs, aqueducts and wildlife. The area also has International Dark Sky Park status , meaning that there is very little light pollution. On clear nights you can see constellations, planets and stars so clearly you feel you could reach out and touch them – perfect if you’re in a campervan or motorhome !

RELATED POST – Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary

Wildlife lovers should visit the Red Kite Feeding Centre  based at Gigrin Farm where you can see the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of red kite whirling through the air and feeding. At  Valley View , you’ll be introduced to falcons, hawks and owls and get the chance to try handling these magnificent birds yourself. 

There are several remains of castles in the nearby area, typified by mounds or earthworks. Good examples of these are Rhayader Castle and the scheduled monument of Tomen Llansantffraid.

• Stay at Penbont House B&B , where you’ll receive a warm Welsh welcome. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the valley, the views over the reservoirs, dams and mountains are fabulous.

North York Moors, Yorkshire

Autumn in the beautiful North York Moors starts in September and lasts through to November. The cooler months of September and October are perfect for hiking and cycling as the rising sun finds its way through the morning mists which cloaks the dales, making the moors a photographer’s paradise.

Autumn starts as the heather flowers in a purple haze as far as the eye can see. The annual  Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage  celebrates the village’s arts and fishing heritage, and brings pop up art, culture and tearooms to the pretty coastal location every September.

You’ll also catch the last of the traditional village and  agricultural shows  during September, and then it’s just a matter of waiting for the trees to explode into autumn’s spectacular colours which heralds the onset of winter.

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Autumn means fungi so get yourself booked onto a fungi foray to find out which ones you can safely pick and eat. The  Yorkshire Arboretum  runs a couple of  fungi forays  which teach you how to identify common, and not so common species, or join  Tees Valley Wildlife Trust  who often run sessions. 

In the autumn, whales move south along the east coast of Yorkshire, following the shoals of mackerel and herring. Late August through to early November is the best time to go whale watching, and trips run from Staithes on traditional fishing boats regularly.

Along with harbour porpoises and white-beaked dolphins, minke whales are spotted regularly, but sei, fin and even large humpback whales have been seen in recent years too.

• Stay at The Feathers Hotel in Helmsly, in the heart of the North York Moors National Park. With views of Helmsly’s Castle and three cozy bars serving cask ale and local produce, this is a great place to cozy up for an autumn weekend.

Other low season holiday ideas…

Sheffield Park Gardens, Uckfield, East Sussex

Explored by Suzanne of Hello Sussex

Sheffield Park Gardens near Uckfield in East Sussex, England is the perfect place to visit for breathtaking autumn colour. The gardens were intentionally planted for fine autumn foliage so a display of vibrant red, yellow and intense orange hues is guaranteed.

Sheffield Park House, a private dwelling, is set in the vast gardens interspersed with lakes, walking trails and parkland, all surrounded by woodland. The main garden is the focus for autumn foliage with many species of shrubs and trees planted by Arthur Soames specifically for autumn colour.

The gardens have Grade I listed status to recognise their international importance for autumn colour and are run by the National Trust.

The best viewpoints are where the colourful planting and impressive trees edge the lakes. Here you’ll get twice the glorious colour as the foliage reflects in the water.

Five beautiful lakes make up the gardens with pathways and trails following the water’s edge. Be sure to spend time wandering through the woodland glades to seek out some of the magnificent trees. 

Take a ride on the nearby Bluebell Railway or a walk with Alpacas to enjoy the best of this beautiful part of south east England.

Just ten minutes north is Ashdown Forest, for more glorious colour, and also the home of Winnie the Pooh.

• Stay at the legendary Griffin Inn in the nearby picturesque village of Fletching. You’ll find cozy and quirky bedrooms, log fires and a seriously good, locally sourced menu.

Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge, East Sussex

Explored by Pierre of French Moments

Bodiam Castle is arguably one of the most romantic medieval castles in England. The 14th century moated castle is set in East Sussex, not far from the Kent border. It is said that the purpose of Bodiam castle was to protect the south coast of England from raids by the  French .

In the 19th century the castle ruins were saved from demolition by a local figure, MP John ‘Mad Jack’ Fuller. The restored fortress features defensive towers, crenellated battlements, a wooden portcullis, spiral staircases… all the elements that bring back the time of the knights to our world.

Autumn is one of the best seasons of the year to visit the grounds. Beside the fact that there are fewer visitors, the colours of autumn are a feast for the eyes. Make sure to bring your camera for colourful photos. The characteristic coloured foliage of autumn beautifully reflects in the moat of the castle.

To enjoy a view of Bodiam castle and the vineyards from a high point, walk the main road south in the direction of Staplecross. After crossing the railway tracks, turn right onto a country lane called Quarry Farm. About 300 metres further on is the Hub, a café and shop stocked with locally sourced products.

Bodiam Castle is not the only attraction to see in the area. The surrounding countryside is bursting with vineyards which turn to yellow and rust coloured tones in October. Take this great Kent vineyard wine tour, enjoy tasting different varieties and leaning about English wine.

If you prefer a bit less booze and a bit more activity, a fantastic way to see this beautiful county is on an bike tour!  A must-do is the popular attraction of the  Kent and East Sussex Railway , a vintage steam train that connects Bodiam and Tenterden via the glorious Weald landscape.

• Stay at the excellent George Inn in Robertsbridge, just a few minutes from Bodiam. This 18th century coaching inn offers sumptuous and elegant bedrooms and an award winning restaurant to tempt your taste buds with local produce and wines.

The Shropshire Hills, Shropshire, England

Explored by Anja of The Travelling Twins

I have seen quite a bit of the world, but the beauty of Shropshire always leaves me speechless, especially in the autumn when its forested hills adopt their new colours of yellows, gold and bronze.

The  Shropshire hills  are known as an “AONB”. My friend Google clarified this for me as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It covers over 800 sq km and was designated in 1958, but the description is as true today.  It spans from Clun Forest in the West across the  Long Mynd, and Caer Caradoc in the centre of the county and then runs twenty miles along Wenlock Edge towards the historic Iron Bridge gorge.  

Shropshire’s hills vary in geology, including craggy outcrops and smooth rolling heathland.  In autumn however it is the forested hills,  especially those to the East including the Wrekin with oak, beech and pine, and the beech woods to the south around Ludlow which really shine with the glory of vivid colour, making this area one of the best places for autumn breaks in England.

Fifty of the best hills are highlighted on the  AONB website . Explore them on foot, along waymarked trails. Some are accessible even without a car. Small market towns like Ludlow, Church Stretton and Craven Arms are accessible by train.

These forested hills also offer pastoral views across Shropshire’s timeless rolling landscape grazed by sheep and cattle, and ancient hedgerows dotted with oaks, often framed by bright or heavy dark skies.  This is what I love most in Shropshire of course,  just after my favourite English town of Shrewsbury. 

Both  Stokesay Castle  and  Ludlow Castle  are in the area and tell the story of how this part of England was shaped by history. Take a stroll through historic Ludlow, a pretty market town renowned for its foodie vibe and independent shopping scene. Discover the award winning beers of the  Ludlow Brewing Company  when you take a tour of their brewery and enjoy a pint afterwards!

• Stay at the Clive Arms in Ludlow. This stylish and award winning restaurant with rooms delivers on both fronts. Open beams, colourful prints, baths in the bedroom and a convivial bar set the scene. The restaurant offers first class informal fine dining and competes well in a town known for its food.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh, Scotland

Explored by Lucy of On The Luce

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh are a peaceful haven where you can escape the bustle of the city at any time of year, but autumn adds a sprinkle of extra magic.

These Edinburgh gardens were founded in 1670 by two doctors studying medicinal plants and moved to the current site in 1820. They stretch over 70 acres just north of the city centre, with great views of Edinburgh’s skyline. The gardens have over 10,000 species of plants and trees, divided into sections of different vegetation.

On a crisp, sunny autumnal day take a walk through the Woodland Garden with its Giant Redwoods, where leaves turn glorious shades of red, gold and orange from late September through to October. There’s also the hillside Chinese gardens, a rock garden and the Japanese katsura trees – nicknamed the caramel tree for the caramel smell it produces when the leaves fall.

Or if the weather’s not so good you can warm up with a hot chocolate or coffee in the garden café or head inside one of the glasshouses. There are ten glasshouses, each recreating a different climate with exotic plants from the tropics to the desert.

Most impressive is the original Victorian Temperate Palm House, which was built in 1858 and is one of the tallest traditional palm houses ever built. The gardens are free to enter, making it a great thing to do in Edinburgh on a budget .

RELATED POST – Edinburgh One Day Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide

If this is your first city break in Edinburgh , you’re in for a treat! History buffs will love a tour of the ancient fortress of Edinburgh Castle, home to the famous  Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo . Reputed to be one of the most haunted cities in the UK, discovering Edinburgh after dark, with wee dram thrown in, is perfect for ghost hunters! 

Wanderers and shoppers alike will enjoy exploring the medieval old town and elegant Georgian ‘new’ town, with it’s beautiful neoclassical buildings, wide streets and open squares.

• Stay at the Cheval Old Town Chambers , a stones throw from the Royal Mile. These luxury serviced apartments in the heart of Edinburgh are beautifully decorated and cleverly designed and with a 24 hour concierge, you’ll have everything you need on hand. Check availability in good time, the apartments get booked up early.

The Isle of Skye, Scotland

Explored by Kat of Wandering Bird

Scotland is one of the best places in the UK to visit in autumn, and the Isle of Skye is one of the prettiest places in Scotland!

The scenery is spectacular any day, but the added colours of autumn, combined with the blue backdrop of the sea and the mountains of the Highlands is extra special.

Autumn is by far the best time to visit- the large crowds from summer have gone, (along with the midges!) but the days are still warm enough and long enough to make the most of them. 

There aren’t a large number of trees on the Isle of Skye, but every hillside and field are covered in heather and bracken which turn incredible shades of gold, red and amber during Autumn. 

The best way to experience all these colours is to get high, hiking up on one of the many routes to a good vantage point. One of the best is the Old Man of Storr on the Trotternish Peninsula. On a clear day, you can see for miles and the autumn colours are breathtaking.  

In autumn, you might be lucky enough to have some of the main attractions to yourself. Visit the famous Fairy Pools , a natural swimming pool in which you can swim (although I wouldn’t recommend it in autumn!) or take a tour of the  Talisker Distillery  and sample their famous single malt whisky. 

There are  three castles on the island  where you can visit and find out more about the clans of Scotland and Skye.

• Stay at  Marmalade  in pretty Portree. This beautiful, contemporary hotel is in the centre of town, surrounded by lush gardens and glimpses of a spectacular view of the Cuillin hills. With great service, delicious home-made food and a per night price that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, this is your perfect Isle of Skye retreat.

Corfe Castle, Dorset, England

Explored by Emily of Dorset Travel Guide

With its idyllic English countryside and stunning coastline, Dorset has many amazing spots to enjoy autumn colours. But one of the most impressive and photogenic holiday destinations has to be Corfe Castle . This striking ruin stands on a hilltop at the centre of the Isle of Purbeck , looking out over the rolling Purbeck hills and dense woodland. It looks incredible at any time of year, but during autumn when the surrounding countryside turns golden, the vista is a must-see.

Corfe Castle was built over one thousand years ago and has a rich history dotted with gruesome tales and grisly ghost stories! It was destroyed during the English Civil War in 1646, so today the ruins stand as a testament to one of the most important moments in the country’s history.

The neighbouring village of the same name is one of the prettiest in Dorset, and its cute stone cottages look particularly picturesque in an autumnal setting.

Keen photographers may want to get up early and climb one of the opposite hills in order to capture the morning mist creeping over the valley. There are numerous walks circuiting the castle which will take you through peaceful autumn woodland and up hills for some incredible views of the captivating ruins.

You can also visit Corfe Castle itself, which is managed by the National Trust, for the chance to explore the ruins and their fascinating history. Its hilltop position affords one of the most breathtaking views in the whole of Purbeck.

Finally, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a Dorset cream tea at the Courtyard Café and Tearoom – and pop into the next door model village before you leave for a chance to explore the castle and town in miniature.

RELATED POST – A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest

Much of the Purbeck coast line is know as the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO protected site with outstanding fossils and landforms – there were dinosaurs here! Head for Kimmeridge and the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life to explore more.

On the eastern side of the Isle of Purbeck is  Studland Bay , a vast area of sandy beaches and heathlands with fantastic views of Old Harry Rocks from the South West Coast Path.

For bucket and spade holidays lovers, take the Swanage Railway steam train to the seaside resort of Swanage and eat fish and chips on the front!

• Stay at Olivers , a friendly and very well located guest house in Corfe village itself. Just 200m from the castle and 300m from the steam railway station, this is a perfect spot to spend a few days.

Are you looking for more UK travel inspiration? Check out these top posts…

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Holkham Beach England: North Norfolk’s Finest Beach

15 Best Cities to Visit in the UK & Fall in Love With!

Wells-next-the-Sea Norfolk: Best Things to Do & See

Norfolk England Beaches: Ultimate A-Z Guide

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Visiting the UK in Autumn

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Thinking of visiting the UK in Autumn? Then this guide will help you plan your perfect trip. It is packed with essential travel tips, ideas of places to visit and things to do in Autumn in the UK.

Autumn is a perfect time to visit as although the weather will be cooler (and wetter), attractions will be quieter and you can expect lower prices for accommodation. Your trip will also coincide with some of the biggest and most unique cultural events that are celebrated or hosted in the UK.

Advantages of visiting the UK in Autumn

Disadvantages of visiting the uk in autumn, westonbirt arboretum, gloucestershire, lord mayor’s show, chester literature festival, blackpool illuminations, premier league football, international and domestic rugby, the great north run, guy fawkes/bonfire night, scottish international storytelling festival , what are the best months to visit the u.k. in autumn, what is the weather like in autumn, how many daylight hours are there in the u.k. in autumn, what should i pack for the u.k. in autumn.

The biggest advantage of visiting the UK in Autumn is the lack of crowds. U.K schools reopen in the first week of September so attractions and transportation will be quieter. 

You may still find high accommodation prices if you visit in September as the weather is still warm and dry but as Autumn progresses into October and November, tourist numbers continue to fall and in turn, so do accommodation prices.  

Another advantage is that you can enjoy the myriad of Autumn colours that the U.K experiences in Autumn. Enjoying a woodland or park stroll, walking on crunchy leaves under colourful oak and sycamore trees or hunting for conkers and chestnuts whilst watching the squirrels get ready for winter is a memorable experience. 

Plus, Autumnal rain will make the UK’s waterfalls such as Hardraw Force in Yorkshire and Aber Falls in Snowdonia, North Wales even more impressive. 

The main disadvantage of visiting the UK in Autumn is the weather. 

Once October arrives, the weather in the U.K. changes quickly and you can expect consistently cooler and wetter days with shorter daylight hours. There is a reason why many Brits fly to the sun in the week-long school break at the end of October! 

Some attractions such as Highclere Castle will introduce shorter visiting hours in October and November and some attractions, particularly rural historic houses, close completely in November and early December.

Places to visit in Autumn in the UK

Everywhere you go in the U.K. has a good mix of indoor and outdoor attractions so wherever you choose to visit, you can make the most of a dry day by visiting an outdoor attraction and take shelter indoors on a wet day. 

One of the best places in the U.K. to experience the colours of Autumn is at the Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire, which is one of the largest arboretums in the U.K. 

The arboretum has over 16,000 different types of trees and boasts 600 acres of woodland with numerous woodland trails to enjoy. Westonbirt is under one hour’s drive from the villages of the Cotswolds so can be visited as part of a Cotswolds road trip. 

Take a trip from London to Stonehenge in Autumn and enjoy the ancient site without the crowds of summer. We also think that Stonehenge is atmospheric on a misty, Autumnal day. 

Explore the visitors centre before taking the short walk or bus ride across Salisbury Plain to the ancient stones. 

Just pick a dry day as there is little shelter on site!

The landmarks of London are fantastic to visit at any time of the year, but in Autumn you can enjoy smaller crowds and waste less time queueing.

Plus, with so many museums to visit and covered markets in London , there is always somewhere interesting to pop into should you get caught in an Autumnal rain shower.   

Enjoy the buskers of Covent Garden and the view from the London Eye on a sunny day and explore the fascinating V&A or the British Museum on a rainy day.

🍂 Read more about visiting London in Fall

Events in the U.K in Autumn

If you want to see and experience the pomp and pageantry that the U.K. is famous for, The Lord Mayor’s Show in London is a must. 

The show is a procession through the historic City of London when the newly-elected Mayor of London travels to Westminster to swear loyalty to the crown. 

It takes place on the third weekend in November, as it has done every year since the 13th century. 

Spectators can expect marching military bands, gold carriages and horseback cavalry.  The parade is free to attend and draws large crowds from across the U.K. You can find out the best viewing spots and the order of procession here.

If you are visiting the U.K. in Autumn, especially if you are in London with kids, this is an unmissable event.  

For ten days in late November, the historic city of Chester becomes the focus of the literary world when it hosts the Chester Literary Festival. 

There are book and poetry readings, talks by world-famous authors and a wide range of literary workshops. Tickets can be booked online in advance here where you can also discover this year’s exciting programme of events. 

Every September, the seaside town of Blackpool in north-west England challenges the arrival of darker days with a vibrant festival of light. The Blackpool Illuminations are renowned throughout the U.K and attract visitors from all over the country. 

Over one million lights adorn Blackpool’s seafront promenade and you can expect illuminated trams and tableaus, laser shows, regular parades and even the 19th-century Blackpool Tower is lit up. Best of all, it’s all free! 

During the day, you could visit the Blackpool Pleasure Beach theme park, build a sandcastle on the sandy beach or visit the iconic Blackpool Tower. Enjoy an afternoon tea in the world-famous Tower Ballroom which includes dancing to the famous Wurlitzer Organ.

Sport in the U.K in Autumn

Autumn is a fantastic opportunity to catch a Premier League football game, whose season runs from August to May. 

If you want to watch a match, you will need to plan ahead and book well in advance of your visit. Use our helpful guide to buying premier league tickets. 

If you don’t manage to get tickets for a premier league game, there are other divisions of football which are easier to get tickets for. 

Don’t despair if you can’t get any tickets for top league clubs as you can still visit many of the UK’s best loved stadiums such as Old Trafford in Manchester or Anfield in Liverpool on non-match days and enjoy a behind-the-scenes stadium tour. 

Rugby is the quintessential British game and is played all over the U.K. in the Autumn. If you don’t usually follow rugby in your home country, attending a rugby match in the UK will be a thrilling experience. 

There are Autumn Internationals held at each of the home nation stadiums, including the iconic ‘cabbage patch’ Twickenham Stadium, the home of the England rugby team in west London. 

However, it is much easier (and cheaper) to pick up a ticket for a regional or local team match. Check the Premier League rugby fixtures to see if your visit coincides with a match. 

The Great North Run takes place between Newcastle and South Shields in the north of England every year in mid-September. Over 60,000 runners take part with many more tens of thousands lining the route to cheer them on. 

It is a fun, family and inclusive atmosphere and should not be missed if you are in the Newcastle or Northumberland area. Expect a lively atmosphere with fantastic street entertainment alongside the half marathon run. 

Festivals in the U.K in Autumn

Like the rest of the world, Halloween is celebrated in the U.K. on October 31st. Shops, homes and attractions will be decorated and many attractions, historic houses and theme parks will host special events. 

Alton Towers theme park in the West Midlands hosts a month-long ‘Scarefest’ with extended opening hours, live entertainment and shocks and surprises around every corner.  

Nearby Warwick Castle hosts a spooktacular after-dark event with haunted trails, a maze and live music and entertainment. 

Bonfire Night remembers the foiling of the infamous Gunpowder Plot on November 5th 1605 when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London. 

Today the event is marked throughout the U.K. with communal bonfires, the ‘burning of the Guy’ (an effigy of Guy Fawkes) and most common of all, fireworks. People gather to let off fireworks in their gardens and there are organised, low-cost displays throughout the country. 

One of the largest events takes place in Lewes in East Sussex with the ‘Enemies of the Bonfire’ parade.

Local villagers process in period costumes holding flaming torches alongside controversial effigies of current political figures which are then tossed onto the bonfire. The event culminates in a giant fireworks display. 

If you are lucky enough to be in Edinburgh in the last two weeks of October, you can attend the affordable and varied events of the Scottish International Storytelling Festival. 

There are spoken word and storytelling sessions in English and Gaelic for all ages held all over the city. Find out about this year’s exciting festival programme here . 

FAQs about visiting the U.K in Autumn

September, October and November are shoulder season months in the U.K. so you will experience fewer crowds than during Spring and Summer. 

However, the weather can often change rapidly so if you want the warmest, driest days for your U.K. vacation, we recommend visiting in September. 

The average temperature in September is a pleasant 16 degrees C or 60 degrees F though it will inevitably be cooler the further north in the U.K. you travel. In October, the average temperature is a cooler 12.5 degrees C or 55 degrees F. 

There is a significant temperature drop in November with an average temperature of 9 degrees C or 49 degrees F. 

September is a relatively dry month with an average rainfall per month of just 2.13 cm. In October, the figure increases to 2.93 cm with a slight fall in November to 2.72 cm. 

If you want to enjoy the most daylight hours in order to pack in your sightseeing, the best month to visit the UK in Autumn is September. It has an average of 12.45 hours of daylight per day.

October has an average daylight hours of 10.48 hours but as soon as the clocks go back one hour at the end of October there is a considerable change in daylight hours. November gets only an average of 8.57 of daylight hours. 

What you pack depends in which month you are visiting. In September you can get away with T-shirts, light trousers, sandals or closed-toe shoes with a jumper or sweater for the cooler evenings. 

If you are visiting in October, we would advise packing warmer clothes, a waterproof coat and closed-toe shoes or boots. November visitors should consider packing additional items such as a hat, scarf and gloves, particularly if you are visiting Scotland or Northern Ireland . 

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit the U.K. Come prepared for all weathers and you will be treated to quieter attractions, cheaper prices and the glorious colours of Autumn.

• When to visit the UK – Guide to every month and season
• UK in spring
• Podcast episode – Visiting the UK in summer
• UK in winter
• London in winter
• London in spring
• London in autumn
• London in summer

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27 of the best places in the UK to see autumn colours

From the Lake District to Cornwall, add these to your must-visit list

Autumn is alive with a breathtaking palette of golden colours, brilliant blue skies and a crisp chill in the air. Wherever you live in the UK, it's the perfect time to slip on your walking boots and soak up all the season has to offer.

To help you find the best spots to visit, we've rounded up the wonderful places in the UK to see the blazing colours of autumn in 2024. From the Lake District to Cornwall, take a look at them below...

Loch Faskally, near Pitlochry, Scotland

During autumn, the spectacular golden leaves are reflected onto the glistening Loch Faskally. It's an excellent place for a walk; the route includes a metal suspension bridge of the river, the fish ladder on the dam, and breathtaking views. If you're lucky, you may even spot a flash of pink as salmon dart through the water.

Castle Combe, Cotswolds

Situated on the southernmost edge of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is an idyllic corner of the countryside. Often named one of the prettiest villages in England, it's a riot of colour in autumn and makes a wonderful place to explore.

Read more: The best hotels in the Cotswolds

Grasmere, Lake District, Cumbria

Grasmere is often called the jewel of the Lake District — and it's easy to see why. During the autumn months, why not take a walk around the glistening lake and soak up the glorious changing colours. This lakeside stroll has fairly level ground, and should only take around two hours to complete.

Stourhead Gardens, Wiltshire

During autumn, the beautiful National Trust gardens at Stourhead are emblazoned with deliciously golden colours. Wrap up warm and make a day trip of it.

Hever Castle

Visitors at Heaver Castle are treated to glorious displays of autumn colour throughout the estate. Expect rich yellows, reds, oranges, Japanese maples, and pretty tulip trees.

Whinstone Lee Tor in the Derwent Valley

For spectacular scenery and a dose of wildlife, the Whinstone Lee Tor in the Derwent Valley is one to add to your must-visit list. The 6.9km circular trail near Hope, Derbyshire, is considered a moderately challenging route and takes an average of two hours to complete. Visit alltrails.com to plan your visit.

Grizedale Forest, Cumbria

Nestled in the heart of Cumbria, Grizedale Forest is a joy to behold come autumn. Make the most of seasonal sunshine as you crunch your way through the splendid hills and small tarns.

Castleton, Hope Valley

Surrounded by stunning scenery, Castleton is one of the best places in the UK to see autumn colour. From the rustic bracken to beautiful misty mornings, expect a riot of oranges, browns and roaring reds.

Coombe Hill, Buckinghamshire

Coombe Hill is the highest point in the Chiltern Hills, boasting extensive views over the Aylesbury Vale. Epic views are an obvious lure here, as well as bustling wildlife numbers. The National Trust has plenty of advice on which route is best to take.

Aberystwyth, Wales

Perched in West Wales, Aberystwyth is a picturesque town that has thousands of years of history. It's the ultimate place for a weekend staycation, especially once the trees turn golden brown.

Newlands valley, Lake District National Park

Regarded as one of the most picturesque and quiet valleys in the Lake District, autumn sees the area undergo a beautiful change in scenery. The sweeping valleys turn to shades of orange, yellow and gold as the new season takes its grip.

Bridge at Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia, Wales

This bridge is a cornerstone of history and one of the most iconic settings in North Wales. One of the best bridges in the area, it's a wonderful place to explore on a slow Sunday afternoon.

Llanrwst, North Wales

Add this tiny market town to your must-visit list this autumn. Llanrwst's three-arched bridge across the Conwy (with its famous cottage at the end) is the first thing you'll see upon arrival. Whether you're looking for a staycation or a day trip, this gorgeous town will set your heart on fire.

Sheffield Park, East Sussex

The National Trust's Sheffield Park is famous for its fiery autumn display. Originally laid out in the 18th century by Capability Brown, it has some of the best colours in the country. To experience all it has to offer, the National Trust recommends visiting in the second half of October.

Faskally Wood, Perthshire

If you're heading to Perthshire this autumn make sure to stop by at Faskally Wood. Discover the joyful hues of autumn across a wide range of tree species, some of which are more than 200 years old. It really is an unmissable sight.

Lake District, Cumbria

One of the most scenic spots in the UK, the Lake District is the perfect place to soak up the glorious colours of autumn. Located in the heart of Cumbria, this slice of paradise is famous for its beautiful lakes and mountainous fells.

Lake Llyn Padarn at Snowdonia National Park

Have you ever been here before? If you're looking for one of the best places to soak up autumn colours, then Lake Llyn Padarn is the place to come. Pack your walking boots and make a day of it.

Halnaker tree tunnel, West Sussex

Situated in West Sussex, the fairy tale-like Halnaker tree tunnel is an incredible sight to behold. You'll find it on the way to the Halnaker Windmill near Chichester.

The New Forest, Hampshire

Over in Hampshire, the New Forest is one of the best spots to visit the blazing colours of autumn. We're certain you'll fall in love with the cliff-top walks, idyllic glades, ancient woodland and open moors. Pack a picnic and make it a day trip to remember.

Westonbirt Arboretum, The Cotswolds

When you're not soaking up the honey-hued cottages in the Cotswolds , head over to Westonbirt Arboretum. The diversity and vibrancy of leaf colours here will have you wanting to come back every year. It's worth knowing that you have to book in advance if you want to visit.

Nature & Wildlife

Adopt a beehive today to protect honeybee numbers

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Make a ‘hedgehog highway’ in your garden this week

World's most beautiful flower field revealed

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The 9 best places to see autumn leaves in the UK

Gutted summer’s over? Never fear – now you’ve got an excuse to discover the UK’s most beautiful autumnal landscapes

Okay, summer’s status as the all-round best season is well-established – long days, sun-kissed skin, beer gardens, we get it. However, autumn has gotta be when the UK is at its most colourful, with trees and up down the country erupting into otherworldly colours the second October arrives. 

We’re here to give autumn some love. Even if you’re an avid shorts-wearer and prefer the evenings when it’s light until way after 10pm, there’s nothing more satisfying than the crunch of those leaves under your boots, is there? After all, autumnal walks are a great excuse to don a funky scarf and drink a silly amount of chai lattes, and there are plenty of gloriously colourful spots to gander. So, from Surrey to Northumberland, Wiltshire to Cumbria, here are the very best places to see autumn leaves in the UK.

RECOMMENDED: ✨The most  magical and mystical places in the UK 🌈The most  colourful places in the UK 🏔️The most  scenic hikes in the UK 🌤️The best  places to visit in the UK  

Looking for more travel inspo? Check out our latest travel guides , curated by local writers.   Oh, and t his guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top places to see autumn leaves

1.  coombe hill, buckinghamshire.

You can get a stellar view of the Chiltern Hills in all their autumnal glory from the crest of Coombe Hill . In fact, on a clear day you can see all the way to the Cotswolds. Once you’ve had your fill, tackle one of the many nearby walking trails taking you through a canopy of golden beech trees or the moss-covered Low Scrubs woodland at the foot of the hill.

2.  Grizedale Forest, Cumbria

Grizedale Forest becomes a patchwork of autumnal shades at this time of year. Backed by mountains and glassy lakes, the woodland in the Lake District National Park boasts an enticing array of walks that take in ancient beech trees, quiet valleys and crags with views of the ever-changing scenery.

3.  Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire

Autumn goes way over the top at this Cotswold garden. Westonbirt Arboretum is home to thousands of tree species from all over the globe, and they put on an incredible display of golds, pinks, glowing reds and vibrant yellows as autumn hoves into view. Don’t miss Acer Glade or Maple Loop for extra eye-popping hues.

4.  Mar Lodge Estate, Aberdeenshire

A nature reserve in the middle of the Cairngorms might just be the perfect place to soak up the season in Scotland . It’s the largest such reserve in Britain, and contains four of the five highest mountains in the UK. Mar Lodge Estate is also an autumnal wonderland, with lochs and evergreen forests framed by miles of glorious colour.

5.  RHS Wisley, Surrey

Seasonal events are off this year at Wisley but that won’t stop the trees and shrubs from showing off. Visit in October and November to crunch leaves underfoot and enjoy gaudy foliage in the garden’s Pinetum and Seven Acres sections.

6.  Stourhead, Wiltshire

Burnt orange and golden brown leaves are in abundance at Stourhead , a huge, historical landscaped garden dotted with follies, temples and rare trees. Find forest floors covered in leaves ideal for kicking and cosy spots for picnics on dry days.

7.  Bolderwood, Hampshire

The ancient woodlands of the New Forest National Park are spectacular all year round, but there’s something extra atmospheric about them in autumn. Take the Knightwood Oak or Bolderwood Radnor walking trails to see a dazzling panoply of orangey shades.

8.  Kielder Forest, Northumberland

A vast woodland that runs along the border between England and Scotland, Kielder Forest  is scored with walking trails that take in the area’s dramatic and vibrant scenery. Fancy staying after dark? Head to the Kielder Observatory to cop a look at the autumn night sky, free from light pollution.

9.  Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey

Winkworth Arboretum is one colourful garden. Famous for its blaze of blooms in late spring, the landscape turns technicolour in the colder months as well. The liquidambar and maple trees are the boldest, but look out for bright berries and fungi too.

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England in Autumn: 12 of the Most Beautiful Places you Should Visit

England in Autumn is amazing. You can find great foliage and fall vibes. Let me show you all of the very best places to experience Autumn in England. If you’re looking for cheaper trips, foliage, romantic experiences and lesser crowded attractions than this is the destination for you.

Autumn is the shoulder season in England, so the rates will be better, and the weather only slightly cooler. Because England is quieter in the Autumn, you’ll get to see more and really enjoy the seasonal spirit. Let us show you some of the most beautiful places in England to visit on your fall vacation.

OUR GUIDE TO ENGLAND IN AUTUMN

This post may contain compensated links, which means, at no cost to you, I earn a commission. Read our disclaimer here .

What you need to know about exploring England in Autumn

The UK in Autumn is still warm in early Autumn. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the shoulder season without the prices and the crowds. If you want to see beautiful foliage however, you’ll need to come later in the season. Prepare to rug up as winter approaches and plan your itinerary with shorter daylight hours in mind.

When it comes to October holiday destinations, England has that perfect combination of temperate weather and beautiful fall leaves. Whether you’re enjoying autumn in London or in the country side, you’re in for a beautiful experience.

1. Enjoy a pop of colour in the Cotswolds

The quaint stone villages and beautiful countryside make the Cotswolds one of the prettiest places to enjoy Britain in Autumn. Villages such as The Slaughters and Stowe-on-Wold come alive with ivy lined walls burning red. 

Make sure to stroll through a churchyard or two. The combination of a misty morning, amber leaves and ancient stone building is magical. 

The Cotswolds is one of the prettiest places to take an Autumn walk. Blenheim Palace is the perfect place to explore and crunch fall leaves underfoot.

2. A trip in England in Autumn would be incomplete without punting in Cambridge

Cambridge is beautiful year-round. In autumn however it transforms into one of the most magical places to experience Autumn in England. Stroll through the laneways and warm up with a pot of tea (or pint) in a local pub before getting ready to punt. An experienced punt operator is the best option in Autumn.

It’s fall too cold to risk falling in! Take note of the brilliant red ivy that lines the buildings. Weeping willows glow in shades of yellow and orange. Punt a little closer to the shore for a good look. It’s one of the most beautiful places in England to visit and one of the best day trips from London .

LET’S PUNT | Prebook your punting tour here

3. Rug up and enjoy the beach to yourself in York

Fall foliage is king, but why not mix it up with a trip to the beach? The summer crowds have packed up and long expansive beaches like those in York are perfect for an autumnal walk.t

Walk down the sea wall at Bridlington to the beach. When the tide is out, the sand stretches for miles. Unlike Beachy Head and other beaches on the South Coast of England, Yorkshire has stunning sandy shores.

Autumn brings wales and porpoises to the York Coast. Boat tours run from Staithes and allow you to get up close.

If you’d prefer to head a little further inland, the moors come alive with heather. It is a purple haze as far as the eye can see. Autumn is apple harvest season and the perfect time to enjoy a cider. Try it warm and spiced to warm up post exploration!

Whilst you’re in the area

READ | Our guide to Bridlington – a pretty seaside town in York 

READ |  Plan your trip and visit England’s most beautiful cathedrals (hint, one’s in York!)

4. Immerse yourself in beautiful foliage at Bedgebury Pinetum

A pinetum is a botanic garden that focuses specifically on conifers. Bedgebury Pinetum is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Despite focussing on conifers it also has a large range of deciduous trees.

Instead of a hike, why not bike ride through the autumnal foliage? The park features miles of gravel paths perfect for all ability levels. When the fall foliage is at its peak it’s absolutely stunning riding through a canopy of red. It’s a bucket list place to experience Autumn in England and one of the prettiest days out in Kent.

There is an onsite cafe, lake and easy parking. Bedgebury Pinetum is located in Kent. It’s an easy drive from London and there is plenty of parking.

5. COSY UP IN AN OAST HOUSE IN RYE 5. Cosy up in an oast house in Rye

An Oast House is a traditional building that is found in Kent. They were traditionally used to store hops. These days many are converted into homes and uniquely one in to a hotel!

A big day out enjoying Autumn in England must end with cosy accommodation. There’s nothing quite like a roundel room (a round room in the heart of the oast building) to tuck in for the night.

Playden Oasts Hotel in Rye is close to Bedgebury Pinetum and also the coast. Why not combine a walk along the sandy Camber Sands beach with your stay. It’s the ultimate Autumn minibreak vacation.

Plan your visit

WHAT : Playden Oasts Hotel and Restaurant

WHERE: Rye Road, Playden, Rye TN31 7UL

READ |  Our post on staying at the Playden Oasts Hotel in Rye

BOOK |  Spoil yourself with a night in the Roundel Room at the Playden Oasts Hotel

Enjoy Autumn leaves in London

6. stroll through st james’s park.

Spending Autumn in London is the ultimate fall experience. Start with a stroll through St James’s Park . It’s right near Buckingham Palace and the perfect place to spot squirrels.

The park is full of deciduous trees at at 57 acres in size (23ha) – there is plenty to explore.

St James’s park is in the city of Westminster in central London. Best of all its very close to Windsor Castle and the Horse Guard Parade. Get off at Victoria station if you are taking the train.

7. Rug up and explore beautiful Hyde Park

Hyde Park is a must see London attraction regardless of the time of year. In Autumn, however, it is a great place to see beautiful autumn leaves. 

Hyde Park is the largest of the four royal parks that form a chain around Kensington Palace. It spans 350 acres (140 ha) and features many paths lined with deciduous trees.

Take a seat on one of the iconic black wrought iron benches or talk a walk around the lake. The large number of deciduous trees means that you will be in for a spectacular display of colour no matter which area of the park you’re visiting.

8. See the flaming red maples at Hamstead Heath

Head 30 minutes north of London to see the incredible maple planting at Hampstead Heath . Known for their flaming red leaves, Hampstead Heath is a unique place to experience Autumn in London.

Known locally as ‘the Heath”, the park spans an impressive 790 acres (320ha). A combination of woodland and meadows, at just 5 miles north of the city, it is a haven from the hustle and bustle.

To get there, take the train from St Pancras station. If you prefer you can also catch a bus.

9. Take a walk along the Thames

Take a walk along the Thames. Its the perfect place to spot iconic sights like Big Ben framed in an autumnal leaf frame. Towards November the sky lights up with fireworks to celebrate Guy Fawkes Day. It’s simply unmissable. 

Additionally, many of the Christmas lights are turned on in early November. Celebrating Christmas in London is a truly unforgettable experience.

READ| Our comprehensive London itinerary to plan your stay

BOOK | A London Hop on Off Bus in advance to see the best sites easily!

PLAN |  Visit late Autumn and experience the London Christmas lights

READ |  Discover the best things to do in London at Christmas

10. Spot the deer at Richmond Park

Richmond Park is a protected nature reserve and its just 10 miles south west of London. Located in the Borough of Richmond, it is around one hour from London by public transport or road.

What makes Richmond Park special is that it supports a large range of rare species including fungi, birds, beetles, bats, grasses and wildflowers. What most people visit for though is the deer.

Deer run free in the reserve and autumn is their rutting season. This is when the males rough and tumble in order to gain favour of the females. It is a spectacular site to see. Remember to give the deer plenty of space and adhere to deer safety protocols .

11. Experience Bondfire night in Lewes – An essential England Autumn experience

Whilst London celebrates Guy Fawkes Day, there’s no celebration like Lewes. Lewes is the home of Bonfire Night and the village in which you’ll see the best parades and celebrations.

Lewes is on the Brighton and Eastbourne lines, so easily accessed from London. Additionally, it is around 1 hour’s drive from Rye and the Bedgebury Pinetum. 

Arrive early to get a great spot to watch the parades. There are multiple vantage points throughout the town, so there is plenty to see. It’s a unique fall experience in England that you surely won’t forget.

The ancient township of Lewes is also very beautiful. It is the location of Anne of Cleves house (one of Henry VIII’s wives), a castle and beautiful traditional stone buildings. Arrive during daylight to explore. Festivities start at sunset.

READ |  Come back to the region in winter to experience the nearby Burning of the Clocks festival in Brighton

12. Escape on a narrowboat

As the temperature cools down, Autumn is the perfect time to rug up and set off on a narrowboat getaway.

Imagine waking up on a crisp morning with ducks and swans for company. Autumn is a great time for getting back to nature. From birds picking winter berries to animals preparing their winter haul – there’s plenty to see.

Narrowboats are usually equipped with heating – some even log heaters – so you’ll be warm and comfortable.

If you’re new to narrow boating, look for a route without locks. Anglo Welsh Ltd offer a great route in Birmingham great for beginners.

More reasons to experience Autumn in England

In addition to the many beautiful places that you can enjoy Autumn in England, there are also many events to enjoy.

Halloween is widely celebrated in England and is great fun. Partake in some trick or treating or enjoy the decorations. Autumn is traditionally harvesting time in England. Enjoy apples, cider and delicious food at this time of plenty before the winter.

The fall is a time to cosy up and explore without the bite of winter. It’s the perfect time to visit England.

MORE POSTS ABOUT ENGLAND

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Unique Places to stay in Rye: Playden Oasts Inn

Best day Trips from London: Behind the Scenes Bletchley Park

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The loveliest autumn holidays to take in the UK

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There is something liberating about an autumn holiday in the UK; no anxiety-ridden forecast checking, no crowded airports, no passport admin to contend with. An autumn break here means you have signed up for drizzle, fires and thick roll-neck jumpers. A trip that is equal parts exploring the changing seasons outdoors as well as cosying up indoors. Walks to blow away the cobwebs and take in the autumnal leaves are a favourite pastime, while Sunday roasts are an absolute must. To embrace the season, these are our editor's picks for the best places to go in Autumn in the UK, from the Scottish Highlands to charming seaside towns. For more inspiration, see our guide to where to go in Europe in autumn .

Get lost in the New Forest, Hampshire

Hampshire is one of the best places to visit in October, when the ancient woodlands transform into a forest of fire, leaves pirouetting towards the dewy pre-winter ground. Myriad walking routes take in the chocolate-box villages – amble along Fordingbridge’s riverside and learn about the history of the New Forest ’s seven medieval churches. This corner of the UK has castles, cottages and cute pubs galore, so be sure to pack the boots and a camera.

Where to stay: Explore all Hampshire offers from the comfort of The Montagu Arms . The dog-friendly hotel resembles a charming cottage, with foliage cascading down the front. Don a jacket and dine on the terrace, where guests and locals gather for deliciously seasonal post-stroll fare, and unwind in the spa as Thai-trained therapists get to work on aching muscles. Connor Sturges

Go back in time in Canterbury

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims through Canterbury’s cobbled streets is like stepping back in time. The Pilgrim’s Way runs from Winchester to Canterbury and is a well-trodden route that the devoted have followed for almost a thousand years. While many still tackle the walk through the glorious British countryside, most visitors come straight here for historic sites, charming cafes and some well-deserved R&R in the surrounding hotels. Tick off the tourist attractions, immerse yourself in the Canterbury Tales, then branch out – Blean Woods National Nature Reserve is a short drive or bus journey away and the perfect place to break in the hiking boots. Don’t forget to check out the village-feel pubs, from the allegedly haunted Tyler's Kiln to the plant-based monument.

Where to stay: Take a 10-minute drive from the city and check into The Pig at Bridge Place . Expect period features, large fireplaces, and a cosy feel throughout. Food is taken seriously here – even if you’re passing through, try to bag a reservation and sample fresh ingredients from the garden. Connor Sturges

Go leaf peeping at Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire

Follow gentle trails through the 600-acre National Arboretum in the Cotswolds – one of the best places to see autumn leaves in the UK . Nearby Tetbury is stuffed with over 25 antique shops to sift through; the 17th-century Market House comes alive on Wednesday and Saturday mornings with everything from plants to bric-à-brac, and you can refuel at Veloton – a bike and coffee shop, where milk is delivered from a local dairy.

Where to stay: After a day of exploring, flop into the steaming hot tub next to a log fire at Calcot Spa , less than a 10-minute drive from Tetbury. Within the village, we love the look of The Cottage Library on Plum Guide , a charming apartment where you can sink into velvet sofas while gazing up at 300-year-old wooden breams.

Trawl for antiques in Frome, Somerset

Savvy treasure hunters will mark the first Sunday each month in their diary from March to December, when Frome Independent takes over the centre of this Somerset town with a sea of antiques, vintage clothes, handmade jewellery and stoneware, as well as local beer and artisan snacks (perhaps perfectly soft scotch eggs, or vegan brownies made in nearby Bristol ). If you’re not in town for market day, brace yourself for a climb up the cobbled Catherine Hill, dipping in and out of its overspilling independent shops to catch your breath. Reach the top of the hill, and your prize is a silky latte and an apricot Danish at Rye Bakery, housed in a former 19th-century church.

Where to stay: We love the look of Hemington Couch House , a smart four-bedroom new-build townhouse with magnificent natural light and surrounded by a walled garden. For a cosy stay for two, Weavers Cottage is within steps of St Catherine's Hill.

Empty beach walks at Holkham, Norfolk

Amble your way down to Holkham beach for a bracing walk on the endless expanse of sand, and it can feel like you’re the only person left on the North Norfolk Coast. Warm-up afterwards with lunch at the Victoria Inn, where ingredients are grown and raised on the Holkham Estate. You can get your seafood fix at Gurneys Fish Shop in Burnham Market, and the village high street is littered with independent shops, including The Hat Shop at Pentney House, an emporium of thousands of millinery creations.

Where to stay: After lunch, check in to one of the 20 rooms at The Victoria Inn , where you'll find freestanding baths and modish chandeliers. For a private bolthole, we love the look of Blenheim Lodge , a lodge annex located on the beach.

Cider sipping in Bruton, Somerset

This is the season for apple picking and pressing, and when South African Koos Bekker and his wife Karen Roos turned Hadspen House into The Newt in Somerset , planting 267 varieties of apple trees in the process, it was destined to become a hotspot for cider (or cyder as it is known here). Take a tour of the cyder press and cellar, then sit back with a glass overlooking the landscaped gardens from the glass-walled Garden Café. Delve into contemporary art at the nearby Hauser & Wirth gallery set on a converted farm on the edge of Bruton , where the burger with smoked cheddar at the Roth Bar & Grill will cure the cruellest of hangovers.

Where to stay: There are pared-back rooms within the old stables of the The Newt . Another option is Number One Bruton , a slender Georgian house with oodles of personality and a small farm-to-table restaurant.

Drive the North Coast 500, Highlands

You’d be forgiven for plotting your way around the North Coast 500 – a 516-mile route around the north coast of Scotland that starts and ends at Inverness Castle – according to foodie pitstops. Pies from the Lochinver Larder (poached salmon or venison and cranberry are our favourites) need to be boxed up and eaten on the white sand of Achmelvich beach three miles away.

Where to stay:   Settle in for a plate of Loch Glendhu langoustines at the Kylesku Hotel with sprawling views of the loch and hills beyond, or nurse a dram at The Ceilidh Place in Ullapool where you can swap tales with fellow travellers. As the wind picks up and the Scottish drizzle descends you’ll feel rightly smug that you’ve decided to watch the hills turn technicolour from behind your wheel.

Invigorating wild swimming in the Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is home to some of the best wild swimming in the UK , where the majestic colours might just distract you from the plummeting temperatures. The pool at Rydal Bower near Ambleside, found by following signs to Rydal Falls, is deep in the forest and magically tranquil. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in the Lake District .

Where to stay: Arm yourself with a flask for the short dash by car back to The Forest Side , where you will have earnt a soak in a standalone bath as well as the 10-course tasting menu, with ingredients foraged from the walled garden. For more options, see our pick of the best Airbnbs in the Lake District .

Spot the Northern Lights on the Isle of Skye, Hebrides

Make a beeline for the Hebrides to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights as the nights get longer. On the Isle of Skye , your best chance is from the Trotternish Peninsula at the island’s most northerly tip. By day, don walking boots to hunt for shells on some of Scotland's best beaches ; Torrin is a favourite, where the only crowds are likely to be cattle. In the old fishing village of Stein is the Loch Bay Restaurant, where chef Michael Smith has devised simple set menus and you can kickstart dinner with a cockle, mussel and squid broth. And the nine-course tasting menu at The Three Chimneys on the shore of Loch Dunvegan, which might include roasted scallop with seaweed, lives up to the hype.

Where to stay: Kinloch Lodge , a former hunting lodge turned one of the best hotels in Scotland . All of the rooms here have pillowy beds and widescreen loch views. Don't miss the breakfast spread in the morning – the cinnamon-buttered oatmeal is a standout.

Walk a stretch of the South West Coast Path, Devon

When the summer crowds have gone, the traffic heading west on the A303 has sped up from a standstill and the ice cream queue has dwindled, Devon calls for an autumn break. The South West Coast Path follows 630 miles around Britain’s southwest peninsula, but even a slither of this adventure will be deserving of a cream tea laden with jam. Pick any part of the 104-mile South Devon slice from Plymouth to Starcross and it will cast you under the spell of the South Hams as you meander past estuaries, over gorse covered cliffs and past hidden beaches, as well as Agatha Christie’s writing retreat at Burgh Island.

Where to stay: Recharge your batteries at Harbour Beach Club in Salcombe, where rooms embrace a relaxed Hamptons aesthetic and the restaurant serves up fresh lobster and grilled squid for supper. For a stay in Torquay, we love the look of Higher Lodge , a 300 year old thatched cottage retreat with slick interiors, hot tub and a cosy fireplace.

Marvel at the changing colours at Stourhead, Wiltshire

Stand outside The Temple of Apollo overlooking the lake in Stourhead gardens and watch the rusty palate of Japanese maple, hornbeam and chestnut trees gleam in front of you. There’s a reason it was called a ‘living work of art’ when Henry Hoare’s gardens – now part of the National Trust – first opened in the mid-18th century.

Where to stay: Four miles north is the recently revamped Bradley Hare ; less stately than neighbouring Stourhead House but a place where the fire roars in the dining room and the free-standing baths are reassuringly deep. Soho House alum James Thurstan Waterworth is in charge of interiors and stripped back elegance is the backdrop for plates of cleverly crafted food, hearty enough for the change of seasons (don’t miss the roast chicken on a Sunday).

Curl up fireside in the Cairngorms, Highlands

The Cairngorms National Park resembles a painting-by-numbers book as autumn approaches – which is as good an incentive as any to tackle one of the 50-plus Munro mountains in it.

Where to stay: Recover with afternoon tea (including Invercauld Estate rare roast beef and Belhaven smoked trout) by the fire in the drawing room at the Fife Arms , renovated in 2020 by the brains behind the global gallery Hauser & Wirth. A watercolour of a stag’s head by Queen Victoria and a masterpiece by Chinese artist Zhang Enli, painted on the ceiling, are just the tip of Iwan and Manuela Wirth’s eclectic art collection, which trickles into every room and corridor. Tear yourself away for whiskey tasting at the nearby Royal Lochnagar Distillery.

Indulge in Malton’s food scene, North Yorkshire

Celebrate autumn’s seasonal produce with a culinary pilgrimage to Malton, which has been transformed into a foodie hub thanks to Tom Naylor-Leyland, heir to the Fitzwilliam Malton Estate. Meet the town’s producers on a food tour, tasting Yorkshire fare as you go, or drop into the cookery school at The Talbot . Don’t miss Talbot Yard Food Court, which houses six artisan producers, including a gin distillery and coffee roaster. And you can walk off any overindulgence in the grounds of nearby Castle Howard, which bursts into colour as the leaves turn.

Where to stay: In addition to the cookery school, the Talbot is also a hotel and restaurant. All of the rooms are lovely, but book 16, or any with a river view, and you’ll be particularly sorry to leave.

Hibernate with a pile of books in Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire

Start stockpiling your winter reading collection in the ‘town of books’, which straddles the border between England and Wales. Lose track of time in Richard Booth’s sprawling bookshop and if the weather turns, hunker down in its cinema or with a slice of lemon polenta cake and rhubarb jam in the café. At The Old Electric Shop tuck into the vegetarian menu, surrounded by the curious collection of vintage furniture and house plants for sale. Head to the River Café, next to a canoe rental shop on the banks of the River Wye, and contemplate doing something more energetic while you order hearty gnocchi with lamb shank, or just a coffee and pastry.

Where to stay: We like Cheese Market Flats for the splendid vantage point in the historic market opposite the castle.

Sea air and sunsets in Margate, Kent

Margate 's views of sea and sky are all the temptation you'll need to head outside for a restorative walk on Margate Main Sands. Bag a table at Angela’s seafood restauran t (try the ray knobs with aioli), which is set back from the beach, and watch the autumn sun go down.

Where to stay: Following a full makeover Fort Road Hotel has recently emerged as a smart 14-room hotel with serious food and drink.

Marvel at Mount Stewart Gardens, County Down

The mild climate on the shores of Strangford Lough means that the gardens at Mount Stewart House – just a 30-minute drive from the centre of Belfast – are still in bloom as winter looms, while the surrounding parkland and woodland transform into an auburn spectacle. Back in the city, replenish energy levels with a half a dozen oysters at The Morning Star pub, washed down with a pint of Guinness. Or dive into the low-key tasting menu at The Muddlers Club , which rounds off with chocolate, espresso and Irish sea salt.

Where to stay: Retire back in Belfast with a stay at The Harrison , a sublimely restored Victorian merchants' residences with 16 district rooms that are full of personality and playful touches.

17.9 ℃ London

Friday, 6 September 2024

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Autumn in England: best cities to visit in the UK during autumn

Autumn is my favorite season for many reasons, one of them being the amazing fall colors. If you are planning an autumn getaway, then you should consider heading to the UK. Autumn in England is spectacular and there are many places to visit in the UK in autumn, from big cities to small towns and gorgeous parks. Here are the best cities to visit in the UK during autumn – plus a special recommendation for you.

Keep your home safe while you travel

Before leaving on your trip, make sure you “prepare” your house for that period of time too. There are, unfortunately, many break-ins, so it’s good to be prepared.

Among the simple things you can do to keep your home safe while you travel is to install an alarm system and work with a company that offers 24/7 alarm services . In this manner, you’ll know that your house is safe and that it’s being monitored by professional surveillance systems and a team of people ready to intervene, if necessary (though I hope you will never need such an intervention.)

You should also make sure all your doors and windows are closed and talk to a neighbor to check your home every day, if possible. Leaving some lights on, as to give the impression someone is home, and a parked car in front of the house help as well.

As already mentioned, there are numerous wonderful places to visit in the UK in autumn. Among them, a special recommendation is Snowdonia – in the county of Gwynedd, north-west Wales.

A visit here will leave you breathless and will recharge your batteries. Don’t take my word for it: read this article covering all you need to know about Snowdonia, including the best activities recommended by an insider.

Cotswolds, UK – especially the Arboretum here – and Peak District are two other amazing places to visit in autumn in the UK. They are some of the best places to go for fall colors in Europe and this article will feature the best cities so that you can combine admiring fall foliage with visits to museums, admiring the wonderful architecture, discovering the culture, customs, and more.

UK’s capital is a must-visit and London has a lot to offer to its visitors year-round. It is no surprise that it is included in all lists, regardless of the season, and that it is the first city on this list of UK cities to visit in autumn.

You can enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while walking in the parks. When it rains, you get to enjoy all of the city’s attractions and maybe even to go off the beaten path and discover hidden gems .

A lot to see and do in this amazing city! And don’t forget about the Bonfire Night when you get to enjoy fireworks.

Bath is a popular destination in the UK, and autumn might just be the perfect time to visit it. There are events celebrating Jane Austen, there is the Great Bath Feast in October, a Film Festival, and mid-November the Christmas lights lit in Bath.

Add to these special autumn activities in Bath the ever enchanting architecture, beautiful landscape, and wonderful museums and other places to visit, and you have the perfect recipe for autumn in Bath.

If you are a Halloween fan, then head to Manchester for here you’ll be able to attend the “Halloween in the City” festival. All things Halloween are here 😀 Another great autumn event in Manchester is Manchester Oktoberfest.

Add to that numerous fabulous attractions in Manchester waiting to be discovered and you’ve got yourself a lot of things to include on your itinerary.

York is an enchanting city in the UK and visiting it will be a memorable experience. With a Roman and Viking past and numerous things to do all year round , both indoors and outdoors, the city lures visitors each year.

York museum gardens are splendid in autumn, and the York Chocolate Trails is a not-to-miss experience while visiting the city. Numerous museums and castles are also here to welcome you and to allow you to discover more about the city’s past.

When you say Liverpool, you may think of football first, but there is so much more to be seen and done in the city as shown in this article .

Home to the oldest Chinatown in Europe, beautiful cathedrals, as well as several UNESCO World Heritage sites you can see on a walking tour , Liverpool is a cool autumn destination in the UK that will enchant with the fall foliage at Sefton Park.

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

Another great city for a visit during autumn in the UK is Edinburgh, Scotland. Home to Scotland’s most visited attraction – Edinburgh Castle – the city has a lot of wonderful places to discover .

Edinburgh in autumn is even more beautiful as you can admire the splendid fall foliage (the European fall foliage is different than the US one ) while taking a walk through the Meadows.

The Princes Street Gardens are also great during autumn as the trees’ leaves have beautiful colors. Make sure to include these outdoor places on your Edinburgh trip in autumn, along with the city’s wonderful attractions.

photo sources: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5

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Top 10 places to see autumn colours in the UK

Marvel at our top 10 picks for places where you can see beautiful autumn colours throughout the UK

Autumn in the UK means long walks through the fields and forests, admiring the myriad colours of the leaves as they fall. These are our top 10 picks for places where you can see beautiful autumn colours in all their glory.

Stourhead Gardens, Wiltshire

Stourhead House and Gardens, first opened in the 1740s, offers the perfect day out. With 2,650 acres of natural surroundings, including ancient woods, chalk downs, and farmland, Stourhead really comes alive in the autumn season. Enjoy the myriad colours of the woodlands on the King Alfred ’s Tower walk, alongside temples, grottos, and stunning Palladian architecture.

Read more about Stourhead House here .

TINTERN ABBEY, MONMOUTHSHIRE

This masterpiece of Gothic medieval architecture sits on the banks of the River Wye , framed by ancient woodland which comes ablaze with colour in the months of autumn. Take a stroll through this fairy-tale setting as the leaves fall around you, and marvel at the magic of these ruins and the valley beyond.

Read more about Tintern Abbey here .

DOVE CRAG IN THE SIMONSIDE HILLS, NORTHUMBERLAND

Located high in the hills of the Lake District , Dove Crag offers a breath-taking view over the forests below, in particular the juniper and birch trees which light up in spectacular shades of orange and red in the autumn season. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to the coast.

Read more about Dove Crag here .

BODENHAM ARBORETUM, WORCESTERSHIRE

Described as ‘ Worcestershire ’s Hidden Garden’, the carefully landscaped Bodenham Arboretum is home to over 3000 species of trees and shrubs from across the world which particularly come alive at autumn. Take a stroll through this tranquil oasis and soak in the mesmerising colours around you.

Read more about Bodenham Arboretum here .

POCKLINGTON CANAL, YORKSHIRE

One of the top canals for wildlife in the country, and home to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest , Pocklington Canal is ideal for wildlife-enthusiasts. Visit in October or November, when the peaceful waters of the canal reflect the fiery colours of the trees that frame its pathways.

Read more about Pocklington Canal here .

GRIZEDALE FOREST, LAKE DISTRICT

With opportunities to explore the forest on foot, bicycle, or even horseback, Grizedale Forest is perfect for those seeking a more active autumnal adventure. A unique feature of this forest is its artwork – Grizedale contains a collection of unique sculptures by different international artists, who used locally-sourced, natural materials to blend their work seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Read more about Grizedale Forest here .

CASTLE COMBE, WILTSHIRE

Often referred to as the ‘prettiest village in England’, Castle Combe is a place of quaint streets, traditional pubs, and quintessential Cotswold cottages. Visit in autumn to witness the ivy creeping up stone buildings turn red, framing the windows of the buildings lit by the warm of glow of fires from within.

Read more about Castle Combe here .

ST. MARY’S VALE, MONMOUTHSHIRE

Nothing screams autumn more than Halloween , so this year visit St. Mary’s Vale in Wales to get into the spooky spirit of the season. Trees with twisted, gnarled trunks sit on a carpet of blood-red leaves, painting a scene reminiscent of a Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale. Ascend the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain for spectacular views of the rugged wilderness below.

Read more about St. Mary’s Vale here .

MAR LODGE ESTATE, ABERDEENSHIRE

Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, near four of the five highest mountains in the UK, Mar Lodge Estate is framed by some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland . Visit at autumn-time to witness the epic transformation of the landscape into myriad hues of orange and red.

Read more about Mar Lodge Estate here .

CHATSWORTH HOUSE, DERBYSHIRE

You might know this stately home by a different name – Pemberley, the residence of Mr. Darcy in the 2005 film, Pride and Prejudice . It’s no wonder the filmmakers chose this excellent example of English Baroque architecture to feature in the iconic film – aside from the stunning house itself, the surrounding gardens are absolutely idyllic, and make for the perfect autumnal stroll when the house is framed by dramatic hues of auburn and gold.

Read more about Chatsworth here .

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Best places in the UK to see autumn colours

Autumn's colour palette of reds, oranges, yellows and golds sweeps across the countryside from the end of September, through October, November and into early December. Learn why leaves change from green to red and gold and discover the best places in the UK to see autumn colour.

Carys Matthews

Crunching leaves, vibrant views and the red-tinted, golden hues of autumn make this earthy season the perfect time to visit the UK's beautiful countryside.

Where are the best places to see autumn colour near you?

Forests and woodlands are an obvious place to start. It's hard to beat the sense of magic that you get when you walk beneath the kaleidoscopic canopies of oaks, beeches, birches and sycamore. Look for chestnuts on the floor and squirrels and jays in the branches above.

British parks, arboretums and gardens are also great places to visit in October and November, with many boasting statement trees that come into their own at this enchanted time of year. Then there are the hills and mountains, their flanks often blushing red with heather and fading bracken. And who can resist an autumn reflection? For this, our waterways , lakes and coastlines offer plenty of opportunity.

So, without further ado, it's time to lace up your walking boots and head into the countryside for an autumn stomp .

Why do leaves change colour in autumn?

From spring through summer, deciduous tress (trees that lose their leaves in winter) use a green pigment known as chlorophyll in their leaves to produce food from the sun’s energy by combining it with water and nutrients from the soil and carbon dioxide extracted from the air. This process is called photosynthesis. Leaves act like solar panels, exposing the largest area possible to collect as much sunlight and carbon dioxide as possible, which are converted into oxygen and carbohydrates (sugars) that are carried into the tree’s vascular system. Oxygen is also released into the atmosphere from the surface of the leaves during photosynthesis.

Fewer sunlight hours and cooler temperatures mean there is less energy to live and grow so the tree begins to shut down for the winter. Therefore, there is a reduced the need for chlorophyll in the leaves as autumn progresses. As the green pigment breaks down, other chemicals in the leaves become more prominent such as yellow flavonols, orange carotenoids and red to purple anthocyanins, and it is these that produce the stunning array of colours. It’s thought that some of these chemicals help the tree reabsorb valuable nutrients from the leaves.

Eventually, as nights become cooler, hormones in the tree seal off each leaf so that it will eventually snap off and fall to the ground.

Best places to see autumn colours in England

Wicken fen, cambridgeshire.

The mosaic landscape of reed bed, grassland and open water at Wicken Fen means the diversity in which autumn colour presents itself at this reserve is intriguing . In September the sedge turns russet, which becomes golden in the evenings as the setting sun shines through the leaves. This time of year is also ideal to spot some of the resident wildlife with Orb-weaver spiders spinning their delicate webs and bright blue flashes of Kingfishers diving into the waterways. Visitors may also hire bikes instead and take a long cycle around the fen, making the most of the autumn sun.

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King Alfred’s Tower walk: Stourhead, Wiltshire

This is one of the most celebrated sites for autumn colour. A 5-mile walk takes you up through beautiful mixed woodlands to King Alfred’s Tower, a 160ft tall folly designed for Stourhead’s owner Henry Hoare II in 1772. On a crisp, sunny autumn day you’ll be able to catch the sunlight gleaming through the trees, making the autumn foliage even more fiery. As you return, don’t forget to take a detour through the famous landscape garden to see deep hues of red, russet and yellow reflected in the lake. After, enjoy a warming drink at the Gothic Cottage nestled among the trees.

Cardinham Woods, Cornwall

Cardinham is a beautiful mixed woodland. Stroll aside the riverbanks and enjoy the sight of the oak, alder, rowan and willow trees in strong surges of reds, oranges and delicate golds. For families this Autumn you can enjoy The Forest Commission's Gruffalo trail, whilst those seeking a more active visit can set off on the 12km Bodmin Beast cycling trail.

Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire

Travellers have been flocking to this riverbank in the Wye Valley for hundreds of years to admire the grace and beauty of the ruin of the 12 th -century Tintern Abbey. The surrounding wooded slopes are particularly lovely in autumn, while close up, the ancient woodland, with gnarled trees and moss-covered boulders, looks like the setting for a Grimm fairytale. You can enjoy sensational views of the seasonal colour by climbing to a limestone outcrop high above the river.

Westonbirt National Arboretum, Gloucestershire

Home to more than 16,000 types of trees and shrubs over 600 acres of woodland, Westonbirt is a great place for a leisurely meander. Take in autumn’s natural firework display as the arboretum’s acers (Japanese maples) become ablaze with reds, oranges and yellows, while its delicate Chinese spindle treen turns a vibrate pretty pink.

Dove Crag in the Simonside Hills, Northumberland National Park

This autumn, take a walk through the beautiful oak woodland from Holystone to Dove Crag. Weave through the forest, rising to heather moorland scattered with stunning juniper and birch trees, which glow red and yellow against the heather. On a clear day you can see as far as the Northumberland coast.

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• Britain’s best autumn pub walks
• Britain's woodlands and forest
• Britain's best arboreta in autumn

Bodenham Arboretum, Worcestershire

This tranquil arboretum holds more than 3,000 species of trees from across the world. At its centre is a large pool with many rare and ornamental trees adorning its banks. Autumn brings a riot of leaf colour ranging from deep butter yellow through to orange, reds and crimsons as well as an abundance of berries. The many varieties of acer are particularly vivid.

Thorp Perrow Arboretum, North Yorkshire

Thorp Perrow holds no less than five National Plant Collections – of ash, walnut, lime, laburnum and cotinus (which has leaves the colour of red wine in autumn). The arboretum also holds 51 Champion Trees (this national scheme records details of exceptionally large, historic, rare and remarkable trees growing in Britain and Ireland). This collection of exotics results in a stunning seasonal leaf display of golds, oranges, reds, browns and purples.

Knightwood Oak Trail, New Forest

This stunning woodland offers up colours of red, orange and yellow in the autumn months, which look stunning against the backdrop of open heath and moorland. Hunt for the Queen of the Forest, the largest oak to grace the woodland with a girth of 7.4m (24ft).

Pocklington Canal, Yorkshire

Pocklington Canal is one of the country’s best canals for nature and virtually the whole length falls within one of three Sites of Special Scientific Interest. It runs from Canal Head near Pocklington to the River Derwent in East Cottingwith. Its over-hanging trees give way to colourful woodland pockets and hedgerows. As you travel along its length you’ll be able to hear wildfowl on the nearby nature reserve and spot late autumn dragonflies from the towpath as you admire the changing leaves.

Grizedale Forest, Lake District

Grizedale Forest consists of ten square miles of natural woodland in the Lake District near Coniston Water. It is famous for the many sculptures by internationally renowned artists, using natural materials such as stone and wood, made in response to the forest landscape. These can be discovered on an extensive network of walking and cycling trials, offering spectacular trips deep into the forest as it turns deep shades of red and gold in autumn.

Kennet and Avon Canal, Wiltshire

The Avoncliff Aqueduct is a stately spot to view the beautiful autumn colours of the Bath Valley. There’s a handy, but tiny and picturesque, railway station at Avoncliff and a riverside pub, The Cross Guns. The woodland here is a rich variety and includes oak, ash, sycamore, hazel and hawthorn. There are great views from the top of the 100m long Bath stone aqueduct taking the canal over the river. It’s a great spot to see bats flying at dusk to and from the tall arches of the aqueduct and wandering deer feeding on hedgerow leaves and berries.

Grand Union Canal, Hertfordshire

Veteran trees provide bright patches of colour along the Grand Union Canal as it passes through formal pleasure garden at Cassiobury Park, Watford. The canal follows the River Gade along the western side of the park separating it from the ancient woodland of Whippendell Woods. Its oak, beech, silver birch and ash, with areas of hazel, hornbeam, holly, hawthorn and wild cherry, create a superb display of autumn colour.

Leeds and Liverpool Canal, North Yorkshire

As the mill towns drift into countryside follow the Leeds & Liverpool Canal as it snakes from Bingley towards Skipton. At Farnhill there’s a sheer wooded cutting that provides an impressive ravine to journey through. With the North Yorkshire moors in the distance, each side of this tiny wooded valley and Farnhill Wood provide displays of beech, oak, silver birch, sycamore interspersed with some evergreen holly bushes.

Trent and Mersey Canal, Staffordshire

Fradley Junction is the meeting place of the Trent and Mersey with the Coventry Canal. Fradley Pool Nature Reserve is surrounded by native trees and offers a circular walk or a wooded canal side walk. Tree sculptures are dotted among the falling leaves and there are pond dipping platforms. The Junction is home to a number of listed buildings including the Swan Inn, cottages, bridge locks and a small warehouse with original wharf buildings – now an information centre and café.

Hope Valley, Derbyshire

The Hope Pilgrimage offers a three-day, 30-mile hike from Edale’s garden-of-Eden beauty to the now-thriving ‘plague village’ of Eyam, taking in Hope Valley.

Climb to high places and ramble through villages of caramel stone and jitties (narrow passages). Find peace and tranquillity in historic churches and rest up in elegant country houses, now converted to affordable youth hostels . Hope Valley is perhaps at its most striking in autumn, when the surrounding hills and woodlands turn red, russet and gold.

Best places to see the autumn colours in Scotland

Birks of aberfeldy, perthshire.

The Scottish Highlands and more specifically the Birks of Aberfeldy in Perthshire is aflame in autumnal shades. The colours of an artist's palette for their perfect autumn scene prevails closely with a walker's actual view here in Perthshire. The Birks of Aberfeldy, a woodland split in two by the soaring gorge of Moness Burn is a hotspot for autumn delights this season and conveniently is located near the vibrant town of Aberfeldy itself.

Loch Katrine, Stirlingshire

Loch Katrine has wooed artists and poets for centuries – the Wordsworths and Coleridge, to name a few. And for good reason: extending through remote country for some eight miles and overlooked by craggy hills at its southern end, it’s a place of great beauty – particularly in the vibrant autumn months. Take an autumn walk to enjoy the views at their seasonal best.

Glen Affric, Highlands

nts of the pine forest that used to cover much of Scotland. For centuries the flanks of the glen were blanketed with birch,rowan and magnificent Caledonian pines.

Often hailed as the Highlands’ most beautiful glen, Glen Affric not only boasts shimmering lochs and rugged mountains, but it is also one of the largest remnants of the pine forest that used to cover much of Scotland. For centuries the flanks of the glen were blanketed with birch,rowan and magnificent Caledonian pines.

Best places to see the autumn colours in Wales

Llangollen canal, denbighshire.

Starting at the Horseshoe Falls above the quaint village of Llangollen itself, follow the Llangollen Canal through to Chirk. Gaze across to the dramatic arches of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which provide a picture perfect frame for the eyes. As you wander along the vale of Llangollen, the valley will be cast in a crisp orange and yellow hue of Wales' autumn trees and shrubs.

Llangollen walking route

Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, Powys

This canal is the most popular attraction in the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, being one of the Canal & River Trust’s most tranquil waterways. The navigable section of the canal runs for 35 miles from Brecon to the Pontymoile basin. However, arguably the gem of this walk is the wooded landscape of beech trees which provide a mesmerising golden backdrop to the huge views of the Usk Valley.

Stackpole, Pembrokeshire

Experience Autumn's fireworks by the sea. A grand private estate now fully open to explore by the public, Stackpole provides access to some of the UK’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Discover the clear water and sandy dunes of Barafundle Bay, take a bracing stroll along the wind-swept clifftops, or meander your way among the woods at the edge of the Bosherston Lily Ponds. Branches will be erupting with bright autumn foliage and if you’re really lucky you might even spot an otter.

St Mary’s Vale, Monmouthshire

St Mary's Vale is not your average wood and in the lead up to the Halloween season, this circuit is ideal for an eery autumnal walk. Few trees have attempted to grow straight with the vast majority abandoned long ago. Towering trunks have taken on strange, twisted forms that resemble something out of a Tolkien novel. Listen out for the gentle trickle of the Nant Iago stream, before taking the steep climb up to the summit of Sugarloaf – where you’ll be rewarded with views over a flooding sea of burnished reds, oranges and golds.

Best places to see the autumn colours in Northern Ireland

Glenariff forest, county down.

Delight in the seasonal fireworks of ash, oak, beech and hazel that light up this wooded glen – and discover dramatic falls and pools. Glenariff Forest Park is set in Glenariff Glen, considered to be the most stunning of all nine of the Antrim glens. Its 1,185 hectares include two beautiful rivers, the Glenariff and Inver and a couple of truly impressive waterfalls amid the trees.

Tollymore Forrest, County Down

In autumn, burnt-orange beech leaves cling to ashen spurs, their increasing minimalism countered by majestic evergreens and low-lying reefs of mosses, liverworts and feathery ferns. The forest’s saturation and decay are palpable. The slopes around the Shimna River are home to a remarkable number of tree species, including oak, beech, ash, birch, larch, Sitka spruce, yew and willow. Field maple, Himalayan cedar, eucalyptus, Douglas fir, Monterey pines, monkey puzzle and giant redwoods can also be found.

The Argory, County Armagh

In summer the Argory’s lime tree walk is lush and green, but as the year winds down the avenue begins to turn, and soon you’ll find yourself strolling underneath arches of golden leaves. For the more adventurous, why not explore further through the riverside woodlands? Keep a watchful eye for some blackberries to eat or fallen conkers to collect.

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10 Best Places To Visit In Autumn In The UK

There’s no lovelier time to travel in the UK than autumn. From the leafy, orange hues of the Lake District to the crisp, apple-scented air of Kent, autumn in the UK is nothing short of magical. 

It’s not just about the gorgeous autumn colours out in nature. Some of the UK’s cities seem like they were made for autumn, all thanks to their spooky and cosy dark academia vibes.

Plus, after the unbearable summer heat, autumn is the perfect time to go city sightseeing in the UK without melting!

So put on your cosiest woollen jumper, and let’s get started. Here are the very best places to visit in autumn in the UK!

Grey Globetrotters Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my  disclaimer  for more information.

Best Places to Visit in Autumn in the UK

London is an autumn lover’s paradise! We all know that London is notorious for being eye-wateringly expensive , but here’s a little secret : prices for tourists do decrease slightly in autumn – outside of the peak summer season. So, by visiting in autumn, you’ll get to experience London at a slightly lower cost! 

First off, Halloween in London is like nowhere else in the UK! If true crime is your thing, you can’t miss joining a Jack The Ripper Tour, where you’ll step back into Victorian London and uncover the mystery of the world’s most infamous serial killer.

And London has plenty of other spooky things to do in autumn! For a Halloween peep into the city’s creepy history, why not explore one of the abandoned tube stations ?

Luckily for some, the autumn season in London isn’t just about the spooks. If you’re a fan of vibrant autumn colours (and who isn’t?), a walk around Hampstead Heath should be on your bucket list. And what could be better than warming up after your stroll with a hearty British roast dinner in a cosy London pub?

Want to see the autumn colours from above? Hop onto the London Eye for a bird’s-eye view of the city’s stunning transformation. And don’t forget the Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace ! You’ll get to witness this iconic ceremony amid the backdrop of the autumn colours of St James’ Park.

2. Liverpool

Prepare to fall in love with Liverpool this autumn because this city is a true must-visit all year round!

Let’s start with the Beatles, shall we? Liverpool is ground zero for all things Beatles-related, and the city really knows how to celebrate its Fab Four heritage.

Tours of their childhood homes, visits to the legendary Cavern Club , and the opportunity to follow in their footsteps in the Beatles Story are all on offer year-round, and autumn is a perfect time – not too hot and cold- to explore.

Whilst you’re in Liverpool, the world-famous ferry across the Mersey is a must. The autumn temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy the ride, and the views are absolutely breathtaking.

Since autumn is the spooky season, how about a ghost tour? Especially popular on Halloween, Liverpool has plenty of eerie excursions that take you to places like St James’ Gardens , the final resting place for 58,000 souls. It’s a creepy yet entertaining experience that perfectly complements the season.

Other reasons to visit Liverpool in autumn include the colourful transformation of Sefton Park and the chance to catch a match at the iconic Anfield stadium, which is a whole different experience under the crisp autumn air. The city also has plenty of hotels with balconies, perfect for taking in the views of the autumn skyline.

3. Cambridge

If you’re a fan of cosy libraries, age-old traditions and gorgeous ancient buildings, this gorgeous city should be on your must-visit list. Even better, Cambridge is a fairly compact city, making it easy to explore in just one day.

As you wander along the old streets of Cambridge, you’ll be surrounded by the ivy-covered walls of ancient buildings, basking in the soft, golden light of the setting sun while leaves in hues of red, orange, and yellow crunch underfoot. It’s the ultimate Dark Academia dream!

Stepping into Cambridge in autumn is like stepping into another era. Under a canopy of autumnal colours, the grandeur of Cambridge University feels even more magical than usual. 

You could spend hours upon hours simply wandering around Cambridge , taking in the city’s cool vibes and historic charm. But why just wander when you can learn? Sign up for a walking tour , and let the knowledgeable guides teach you about the university’s hundreds of years of history.

And speaking of tales, if you’re up for a bit of a chill, you’ll love the ghost tours offered during Halloween. They have just the right amount of spookiness to get you into the spirit of the season!

Don’t let the cooler weather fool you; autumn in Cambridge is perfect for punting along the River Cam . It’s the quintessential Cambridge experience, and there’s no better time to do it than when the banks of the river are ablaze with autumn colours.

4. The Cotswolds

Now, let’s break away from the cities and explore the autumnal delights of the English countryside. Let’s start with the Cotswolds , where the storybook charm comes to life! With picture-perfect villages nestled amid rolling hills and meandering country roads framed by a riot of autumn colours, the Cotswolds are one of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn.

🚗 But let me share a quick tip : To truly explore the Cotswolds, you’ll need a car. Public transport is almost non-existent around here, but don’t let that deter you. The freedom of driving through these idyllic landscapes, stopping to explore or simply take in the breathtaking views, is well worth the extra hassle. 🚗 Rentalcars.com  is the best place to find all the biggest brands in car hire and the best deals for your trip 🙂

Now, where to go? A visit to popular Cotswolds towns like Bibury , known for its adorable weavers’ cottages, and Bourton-on-the-Water , with its dreamy bridges and rippling River Windrush, should be high on your list. For a historical spin, be sure to visit Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe, where the autumn hues make it one of the most Instagrammable spots in the Cotswolds!

What is the best part about visiting the Cotswolds in autumn? You’ll beat the summer rush! You’ll get to enjoy these quaint villages without the throngs of tourists that descend in summer. And you can visit the Cotswolds on a day trip from London . Nice!

5. The Lake District

For hikers, there’s no better autumn holiday destination in the UK than the Lake District. Think shimmering lakes, plenty of mountains to hike up, and cosy country pubs set amidst a tapestry of golds, reds, and oranges. It’s glorious!

So, where to start your Lake District adventure? Ambleside , with its charming streets and breathtaking views of Lake Windermere , is an absolute must-visit. Then there’s Keswick , nestled between the stunning Skiddaw Mountains and Derwentwater Lake . It’s an autumn wonderland you just can’t miss.

Autumn in the Lake District also means one thing: hiking bliss ! With the summer crowds a distant memory, you’ll have the trails almost to yourself. 

Whether you’re taking a stroll around Rydal Water or conquering the heights of Helvellyn , the crisp air and colourful scenery will make your autumn hike an unforgettable experience.

6. Edinburgh

Now, we’re off to Scotland! Autumn in Edinburgh is a dream you’ll never want to wake up from.

Edinburgh in autumn is the stuff of legends. From the Harry Potter connections to the labyrinth of spooky catacombs under the city , there are so many spooky things to do here! If you’re a Potterhead, visiting the Elephant House café, where many of the early Harry Potter books were written, is a must-do.

With autumn draping the city in a patchwork of colours, strolling through the Princes Street Gardens or climbing up Arthur’s Seat for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city are activities you won’t want to miss. Be sure to snap some photos!

Of course, from Edinburgh, it’s also super easy to book day trips to other wonderful Scottish attractions, like Loch Ness , so that you can make the very best of Scotland in autumn.

After all that wandering, why not warm up in one of Edinburgh’s cosy bookshops or cafes? Nothing beats the joy of sipping on a hot cup of coffee and diving into a good book whilst outside; Edinburgh city shimmers in the golden light of autumn.

York is a UK autumn destination that ticks all the boxes. Wrapped in ancient walls, shrouded in mystery, and with a centuries-old history dating back to the Vikings, York in autumn is a sight to behold. 

Now, York might not be the birthplace of Harry Potter, but it sure does have its share of Potter connections. The Shambles, with its overhanging timber-framed buildings, is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Wandering down it, you’ll soon understand why.

York’s appeal doesn’t stop there. It’s known as the most haunted city in Europe , so a ghost tour is practically mandatory. Halloween or not, York’s local ghosts are always ready to haunt you!

Then there are York’s ancient pubs. Can you think of anything more autumnal than sipping a pint of local ale in a cosy, centuries-old pub? Ye Olde Starre Inn is thought to be the oldest, but the Golden Fleece is another local favourite.

Whether you’re walking the city walls, exploring the mighty York Minster, or simply wandering the autumn-lit streets, York in autumn is an experience like no other.

8. Scottish Highlands

Look no further than the Scottish Highlands for the ultimate autumn escape into nature in the UK! With rugged mountains cloaked in autumn colours, deep lochs mirroring the fiery foliage, and cosy little villages where the fire’s always lit, you really can’t go wrong with an autumn trip here.

To explore the beauty of the Highlands, you’re going to need a car , but since so many of the area’s best bits are off the beaten path, you’ll be glad you brought one. Check out Rentalcars.com  for the best deals for your trip 🙂

Ready to dive into the magic? First off, head to Inverness , the cultural capital of the Highlands, where the River Ness shines bright with the reflection of autumn leaves. Next up, you’ve got to visit the legendary Loch Ness . Could autumn be the best time to go hunting for the elusive Loch Ness monster?

Fancy a bit of hiking? You’re in luck! The Highlands are home to some of the best hiking trails in the UK and are particularly gorgeous in autumn. And if you’re feeling energetic, you can even climb Ben Nevis , the tallest mountain in the UK! 

When the day’s done, cosy up in a local pub in Fort William and treat yourself to a warming whisky. Ahh…

9. Cornwall’s North Coast

It’s time to hit the beach, and there’s no better place for it in the UK autumn than the North Cornwall coast! Forget the summer crowds; this is a place where autumn turns the area into something totally different – a landscape of wild beauty and quiet charm.

First stop at Padstow , a picturesque harbour town where cosy pubs serve up hearty Cornish fare, and the views of the Camel Estuary are simply jaw-dropping . For a unique experience, head to Port Isaac, where narrow, winding streets lead you to some of the most charming cottages you’ll ever see!

In terms of beaches, Perranporth , with its three miles of golden sands, is an absolute delight in autumn, perfect for long walks and surfing. And who could resist the wild beauty of Bude , where crashing waves make for an unforgettable autumn spectacle?

North Cornwall isn’t just about beach life! History buffs will love the Botallack Mine , a UNESCO World Heritage site that stars in the popular TV series Poldark . 

➡️ READ NEXT: 16 Fantastic Things to Do In Cornwall in the Rain

10. Canterbury, Kent

With cobblestone streets echoing with tales of Chaucer’s pilgrims and the awe-inspiring beauty of its world-famous cathedral, Canterbury in autumn is where it’s at.

Just as in Cambridge, you can go punting along the river in Canterbury. It’s the perfect way to see the best of the city’s autumn leaves. Speaking of leaves, the autumn leaves against the backdrop of Canterbury Cathedral are one of the most beautiful sights in the city!

The beauty of Canterbury in autumn doesn’t stop at its city limits. The surrounding Kent countryside, often referred to as the “Garden of England” , is a treasure trove of autumnal fun. One of the must-do activities here? Apple picking! 

There’s nothing quite like spending an autumn day in an orchard, picking apples and enjoying the fresh country air.

FAQ: Autumn in the UK

When can i see autumn leaves in the uk.

In case you’re wondering, “What’s the best time to see autumn leaves in the UK?”, the best displays are usually from late September through to mid-October, although this is very weather dependent!

What are the best places to see autumn colours in the Lake District?

Holehird Gardens is one of the most beautiful spots, with spectacular autumn leaves, while Skelghyll Wood, Jenkin Crag, Loughrigg Fell and Wray Castle are also well worth visiting. The Lake District is often considered the best place to see autumn leaves in England.

When is autumn in the UK?

Traditionally, the months from September to November are regarded as autumn in the UK.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Autumn in the UK

The United Kingdom offers breathtaking destinations to explore during the autumn season. From the bustling streets of London adorned with vibrant fall foliage to the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, every corner of this country is a testament to nature’s beauty.

Heading north, Edinburgh showcases its historic charm with a backdrop of golden leaves and crisp air, while the Scottish Highlands captivate visitors with their dramatic scenery and enchanting misty valleys.

Alternatively, why not head to the UK’s most south-westerly tip to experience the stunning beaches and villages dotted along the stunning North Cornwall coast? Or discover the cultural charms of ancient Canterbury in England’s southeast.

Whether you are seeking cultural experiences or serene moments in nature, these 10 best places to visit in autumn in the UK should be on your UK travel list for a fall break.

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

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13 BEST Things to do in Scotland in Autumn

From hiking in the cairngorms national park to driving the north coast 500, these are the best things to do in scotland in autumn..

Whether you’re looking for stunning natural landscapes, vibrant and historic cities, or islands that are out of this world, Scotland in autumn can certainly deliver.

I love exploring Scotland during this time of year because the cooler weather means that outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling and climbing are all a lot more comfortable – especially as the midges aren’t around! Also, all the kids are back in school after the summer holidays, so the main destinations are a lot quieter.

From days spent kayaking on Loch Lomond to exploring oyster season on the beautiful Outer Hebrides to enjoying multi-day hiking experiences along the North Coast 500 route, there’s a little something for everyone. 

Autumn activities in Scotland aren’t just all outdoor exploration and adventure. Some of my favourite places to visit during this season are the cities. With the university students returning to the major cities of Edinburgh , Glasgow, and Stirling, and the nights drawing in, there’s a definite cosiness and energy to this time of year.

So, are you ready to discover all the best things to do in Scotland in autumn? Let’s dive in and find out more!

Scotland autumn weather 

Look, I know Scotland has an unreliable reputation when it comes to the weather. Even in the heights of summer it might be freezing and raining. However, on the whole, temperatures in the autumn months tend to average out between 8°C (46°F) and 14°C (57°F). 

This obviously varies based on where you are in the country. The general rule of thumb is that the further north you are, the colder it’s going to get. Also if you’re heading towards the coastal regions, it might feel colder due to the wind chill rolling off the Irish and North Seas respectively.

My advice, pack lots of layers and take a really good jacket.

Best things to do in Scotland in autumn

Hike, drive, or cycle the nc500.

It’s no secret that the NC500 – the 516-mile route that makes up the north coast of Scotland – is a bucket list-worthy adventure. Whether you want to go slow and hike sections of it, road trip from place to place, or speed around on two wheels, there are tons of options open to you.

Completing the NC500 during autumn is a good idea because a lot of the guesthouses and campsites along the route are completely rammed and booked up during the summer, and the conditions get perilous in the winter. So, this shoulder season is the perfect opportunity to explore. 

Check out Ben Nevis

If you love climbing big mountains or enjoying intense day hikes, then you have to check out Ben Nevis , the tallest mountain in the UK. It’s a popular day hike but definitely presents some challenges, especially in the unpredictable Scottish weather conditions. 

I’d definitely recommend climbing Ben Nevis earlier on in autumn as the weather starts to get dangerous and more advanced at the end of October and into November. Where you can get a local guide to assist you!

Kayak on Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is definitely one of my favourite places in the whole of Scotland. It’s an easy day trip from Glasgow and is full of exciting adventures.

One of the best ways to see the autumn colours and natural beauty of the area is to hire a kayak and take to the water. Experience the calmness of the loch and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife!

See the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands

As the nights draw in, the opportunities to see the amazing Northern Lights get better and better. Obviously, the further north you go the better your chances, so I’d recommend heading straight for the Dark Sky regions in the Scottish Highlands.

If you’re wanting to chase the elusive Aurora Borealis, you should probably travel towards the end of autumn to give yourself the best possible chance. Remember, you need clear skies, so no clouds and no light pollution!

Enjoy the autumn colours in Perthshire

Known locally as Big Tree Country, Perthshire is the perfect place to enjoy the changing autumnal colours. With reds, yellows, and oranges as far as the eye can see, Perthshire is a spectacular spot that’s popular with photographers. 

There are plenty of spots within the county that are great for chasing the autumn colours, including Killiecrankie and The Hermitage, so you can spend your entire trip going from place to place and seeing this natural spectacle.

Explore the most beautiful glen in Scotland: Glen Affric

So, this isn’t my opinion, it’s a local nickname that’s been given to the stunning Glen Affric . Located up in the Scottish Highlands, you can wander around the loch, explore ancient woodlands, follow the rivers, and just relax and recharge.

In the autumn months, Glen Affric transforms with the autumn colours and gets a lot more peaceful than it is in the summer holidays!

Hike in the Cairngorms National Park

Another favourite Scottish destination of locals and tourists alike, the Cairngorms National Park is the perfect place to hike in Scotland in the autumn. The cooler temperatures for hiking and chances of spotting wildlife make it the ideal time to visit. 

I’d recommend basing yourself in the quaint town of Aviemore in the heart of the national park. A lot of great hikes start here and there are enough amenities to make your stay memorable.

Spot wildlife during October TayFest

Looking for a family-friendly festival in the heart of Scotland during October? Head to October Tayfest in Aberfeldy and get your fill of nature, adventure, and outdoor fun. 

With canoeing, wild deer spotting, hikes, cinema nights, and more during this week-long festival, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy and be inspired by!

Take a spooky ghost tour in Edinburgh

With autumn being one of the spookier seasons, why not scare yourself silly with a ghost tour around historic Edinburgh? Wander the cobbled streets and alleyways with a knowledgeable and dramatic guide as you learn all about the city’s sordid past. 

One of the best ghost tours you can go on are the ones that revolve around the infamous Burke and Hare, so try and book yourself onto one of those! Bonus points if you decide to go on a ghost tour on Halloween – you’re braver than I am!

Taste the ocean during oyster season in the Outer Hebrides

Scotland in autumn is a time when some of the freshest and most amazing produce is available right on your doorstep. I love seafood, so autumn is the perfect time to head to the Outer Hebrides and check out restaurants during oyster season.

Although it’s an acquired taste, you won’t find fresher oysters than this anywhere else in the world – it’s spectacular. The west coast is definitely the place to be for foodies in the autumn months. 

Watch the deer rut on the Isle of Arran

It might sound odd, but watching the deer rut is one of the best activities in Scotland in autumn. This is where the deer literally butt antlers and fight each other for male supremacy. It’s like something you’d see in a David Attenborough documentary.

The Isle of Arran on the West Coast is a great spot to see the natural phenomenon, and you’ll also be able to enjoy windswept beaches and island vibes while you’re there. 

See the leaping salmon at Pitlochry

If you’d rather be watching live fish than eating them with a wedge of lemon, journey up to Pitlochry for a natural phenomenon that draws crowds and photographers from all around the world. 

The leaping salmon during the autumn months is something that definitely needs to be seen to be believed. Hordes of salmon fly through the air in tandem, in a seasonal wonder that only happens at this time of year. 

Go pumpkin picking at Arnprior Farm, near Stirling

Now, this might be more of an American tradition, but with all the amazing local produce in Scotland, the Scottish have embraced the idea of pumpkin picking. 

There are plenty of places to do this autumnal activity all around Scotland, but Arnprior Farm just outside the city of Stirling has long been touted as one of the best places to go. They even have glamping accommodation onsite if you want to make a weekend of it!

So, there you have it, some of the best activities to enjoy in Scotland in autumn. What are your favourite things to do in Scotland during this beautiful season? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll add them to my next itinerary!

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7 Best Places to Visit in the UK in Autumn

For too long, we’ve mainly thought of travel in terms of summer. Everyone is quick to ask where you’re going over the summer, and surprised if you’re not taking a holiday during that period. But the UK is filled with incredible places to visit, too many to fit into just the summer months. Additionally, travelling outside of summer is more budget-friendly and ensures you avoid the crowds and traffic jams. So if you can travel outside of summer, then we strongly urge you to consider it!

1. New Forest, England

When considering the best places to visit in the UK in autumn, it’s only natural that we think of forests. What better way to enjoy autumn than to see the rusty-coloured leaves and fields of heather?

The New Forest is often referred to as the ‘Eden of Southern England’. It offers the perfect balance of woodland, farmland and coastline. You’ll quickly spot its famous inhabitants, the wild ponies of the New Forest.

Things to do in the New Forest:

• Go pony trekking at one of the many riding centres in the New Forest. This is a great way to see more of the forest without tiring quickly.  
• Head to the New Forest Lavender Farm for scenic strolls through fields of lavender. You can bring some home to make that holiday feeling last even longer. If you’re faced with some unfortunate autumn rain, you can find shelter in their tea room. The entire menu is based on available produce and local ingredients.  
• Take some time to relax and enjoy your surroundings at one of the many campsites in the New Forest . Weekends away should contain time for both rest and adventures, so be sure to take time to sit with your feet up under your awning.

2. Aberystwyth, Wales

Tucked away in the west of Wales, you’ll find the charming town of Aberystwyth. It is known for its natural beauty, quaint streets, picturesque beaches, historic sights and more. There is always something to do in Aberystwyth, no matter the weather, making it ideal for October weekend breaks in the UK.

We particularly recommend this destination for art lovers and historians, as it is home to the National Library of Wales and the largest Arts Centre in Wales.

Things to do in Aberystwyth:

• Spend an afternoon at the beach. It might not be swimsuit weather, but there is something special about visiting the beach in autumn. There are plenty of beaches to pick from in the area, but we’d recommend going to Aberystwyth North or Aberystwyth South Beach.  
• Take a trip on the Gwili Steam Railway . This Welsh heritage railway operates along the former Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line. It’s considered to be one of the UK’s most picturesque preserved lines.  
• Visit the majestic remains of Aberystwyth Castle. This was the first true castle built in Aberystwyth and has changed hands numerous times over the centuries, particularly when the Normans warred with the native Welsh. You can stroll around the castle and be amazed at just how large this fortress is. 

3. The Cairngorms, Scotland

Did you know that the Cairngorms is one of the UK’s largest national parks? It was also named one of the ‘top 20 places to visit in the world’ by National Geographic.

You’ll never run out of things to do in the Cairngorms. People flock to the Cairngorms to go hiking, bird-watching, biking and more. It’s also particularly popular with photographers, as the landscapes are varied across the national park and offer incredible views. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the Cairngorms is just a destination for summer, as actually, many prefer to visit it in autumn. That’s when the landscape is at its best, and the colours of autumn really highlight the natural beauty. It also ensures that you don’t get too warm while walking, and that you have a better chance of spotting wildlife.

Things to do in the Cairngorms:

• Grab your walking boots and try one of the many great hiking routes in the Cairngorms . If you’re looking for a shorter and easier hike, try the Falls of Bruar, which is only one and a half miles and takes you between two waterfalls. Or, for a challenge, try tackling the four trails of Muir of Dinnet, which are eight miles in total.  
• Need to warm up after a day spent outside? Head to one of the many whisky distilleries in the region. Many offer tastings and guided tours. A trip to Scotland isn’t complete without a bottle of whisky to bring home and hide until Christmas.  
• You’ll find plenty of options for pitching your motorhome here, and we’ve rounded up the best campsites in the Cairngorms . 

4. The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is one of our favourite weekend road trips from London , and a delight to visit any time of year, but especially in autumn. This area is like a cosy fairytale, and even a light drizzle can’t detract from its beauty. You won’t need any more October weekend breaks in the UK once you’ve visited the Cotswolds. Stroll along cobblestoned paths, past picturesque cottages with ivy creeping along the walls. This is the perfect place to reflect on the changing season and enjoy a slow holiday. 

Things to do in the Cotswolds:

• Take a stroll through the impressive Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens. It features over 260 different species of wildlife across 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens.   
• Take long, luxurious walks with your pup! The Cotswolds is known to be one of the most dog-friendly places in the UK. Be sure to check out our dog-friendly guide to the Cotswolds .  
• Explore St Edward’s Church, a medieval church that is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Doors of Durin . This has never been confirmed, but Tolkien made many trips to the Cotswolds, and we can certainly see the resemblance. The church is open daily and free to enter. After your visit, you can explore more of the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold.

5. Glen Affric, Scotland

Said to be one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, there’s no doubt that we should consider Glen Affric in our list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn. 

Located in the Highlands, Glen Affric is southwest of the village of Cannich and about fifteen miles away from Loch Ness. Along its length runs the River Affric. This area feels magical, and the mix of native pinewoods, lochs and moorland offers an almost haunting type of beauty. 

Things to do in Glen Affric:

• Keep an eye out for local wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot many of the residents of Glen Affric, including ospreys, otters, black-throated divers and deer.  
• Glen Affric is a paradise for hill walkers with plenty of routes to pick from. We love the traditional Glen Affric Circuit, which takes about five hours over eleven miles. It consists mostly of accessible paths, but does require some experience and a good level of fitness. You follow the loch around for this hike, giving you the best chance to spot wildlife.  
• Visit the charming Dog Falls. Don’t worry, no pups were harmed for it to get this name! This stunning waterfall is definitely worth a visit, and it’s a great location for a picnic or a short stroll.

6. Northumberland, England

Situated right on the border of Scotland and England, Northumberland is a breathtaking place to visit. It’s filled with ruined castles, tranquil beaches, bustling market towns and more. There is so much to explore in Northumberland, and it has a calmness that you’ll struggle to find elsewhere in the UK.

Northumberland is one of the best places to visit in October in the UK for the half-term holidays or longer weekends away. There is simply so much to see and do in this area.

Things to do in Northumberland:

• Head to the holy island of Lindisfarne. It’s located just off the Northumberland coast and hosts the Lindisfarne Priory. This island has held great religious importance over the centuries and is also home to various wildlife, particularly birds.  
• Sit back and gaze upwards. Northumberland is a great destination for star gazing. The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is 572 square miles, making it Europe’s largest area of protected sky. So download a handy app and see how many constellations you can spot. On a good night, you’ll even see some planets!  
• Northumberland is a great destination for history buffs and home to many impressive castles. You can even make your own little road trip route to include them all, with stops at Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Castle and Warkworth Castle.

7. Portstewart, Northern Ireland

This time, we’re crossing the water to Northern Ireland. Our list of the best places to visit in October in the UK wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Northern Ireland. It was tough to pick just one, but we’ve settled on Portstewart as an autumn getaway.

This seaside town can get quite busy in summer, so it’s perfect to visit after the peak season. It’s a dreamy little getaway that feels like it’s been pulled straight from the pages of a novel. While in Portstewart, make sure to try some delicious fresh seafood, which the town is known for.

Things to do in Portstewart:

• Take a stroll along Portstewart Crescent. There is plenty to do along the promenade, including shops, restaurants, cafes, go-karting and more. Finish it off with a stroll along the beach, which can be quite romantic if you’re travelling with your partner.  
• Go paddle boarding. You’ll definitely need a wetsuit, which you can rent along with your paddle board. This is a fun way to enjoy the ocean in autumn and to get a different view of Portstewart.  
• Visit O’Hara Castle. Built in 1834, O’Hara Castle now functions as Dominican College. It’s set on the clifftop along the water, offering an impressive sight. You can walk right up to it and explore this castle that wouldn’t look out of place in Game of Thrones. It’s part of the cliff path that forms the Causeway Coast Way.

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Wales in Autumn: 6 best places to visit

• David Angel
• Wales , United Kingdom

Are you thinking of planning a trip to Wales in Autumn? As a proud Welshman with more than ten years of experience working in the tourism industry, I’ve got all the insider knowledge you need.

Autumn in Wales is absolutely stunning, in this guide I’ll show you the places to visit and the best spots to find those breathtaking autumn colors. Plus, I’ll give you lots of essential travel tips and loads of fun ideas for your visit.

Wales in Autumn has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK with the forests, hills and valleys turning a magical array of colours.

As well as the autumn colours you can chance upon beautiful morning mists along the Welsh lakes and rivers . We’ve compiled an itinerary of the best places to visit in Wales in autumn, to help you catch the best of the fall colours around the country.

As well as showing you the best autumn landscapes in Wales, we also show you many of the best things to do in Wales along the way. Our route also allows the opportunity to break your journey at some of the best places to stay in Wales along the way.

You could comfortably complete the journey in a three day autumn break, or just make a day trip out of a section of it. Hopefully you’ll get the best of the weather and catch the Wales autumn display in all its glory.

When to Visit   Wales in Autumn

The best time for Wales autumn colours is usually the last week of October and first two weeks of November. Sometimes the autumn leaves linger into mid-November. It all depends on the weather that has preceded it in October.

The autumn months aren’t usually the best time for UK weather. It can be wet and windy, with regular rain belts coming in from the Atlantic Ocean. We’ve also experienced sunny days as warm as 17° C (63° F) at the end of October, so you never know from one year to the next.

Best places to visit in Wales in Autumn

1. autumn in llangollen and north east wales.

The Dee Valley around Llangollen makes a wonderful introduction to Wales. 

If you’re travelling on the A5 road you’ll glimpse the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009.

For the best autumn views, you’re better off on the A539 on the north side of the valley, which you can reach by taking the road that leads to the Aqueduct.

Then take the minor road off the A539 to climb to the Offa’s Dyke national trail.

Here views gradually open out over the valley, Llangollen town and the ruins of Dinas Bran Castle sitting on top of a conical hill surveying the scene.

The town of Llangollen is one of the best places to visit in North Wales, with outstanding scenery and amazing walks in every direction.  The tributary valley beyond Dinas Bran is also great for leaf-hunting.

The ruined Valley Crucis Abbey is worth a visit, and is the starting point for a straight-up-and-down walk up the steep hill across the A542 road, Coed Hyrddyn (Velvet Hill). At the top the view opens out over the vale below and Llantysilio Mountain.

The Clwydian Range around Ruthin to the north is also stunning in autumn, and two of the best castles to stay in Wales – Ruthin Castle Hotel and Bodelwyddan Castle Hotel – are nearby.

See Also : North East Wales – 27 Wonderful Places To Visit

2. Snowdonia and North West Wales

After Llangollen, the A5 is the main approach to Snowdonia, giving tantalising glimpses of the main Snowdon range before descending into the Conwy Valley and Betws-y-Coed, the gateway to the National Park at the foot of the Gwydyr Forest.

Betws-y-Coed is one of the best places to stay in Snowdonia whatever time of year you’re visiting. It’s only a few miles along the A470 from one of the most famous autumn shots in Wales.

The red Virginia-Creeper-clad Tu Hwnt I’r Bont teahouse next to the stone bridge over the Conwy at Llanrwst looks at its best in late September and early October, before autumn kicks in for most trees in Wales.

There are many lesser-known spots to explore in the area. Before you reach the town, the large lay-by on the A5 gives you a great view up the Lledr valley to the jagged hulk of Moel Siabod, the mountain which dominates this part of Snowdonia.

The road also passes close to Fairy Glen (Ffos Noddyn in Welsh), a dramatic ravine carved out by the waters of the Conwy river two miles south of the village which is ablaze with colour during autumn.

Continue past Betws-y-Coed on the A5 for two miles (3km) and pause for a while at Swallow Falls, which is usually full of water in autumn. The young river Llugwy summons up great force to crash down a series of falls on its way to meet the Conwy river downstream.

There are plenty more places to see in their autumn finery if you head off the main roads. The B5106 leads from Betws to Trefriw, where you take a very steep left up the mountain, continuing through forest and farmland until you reach Llyn Crafnant, a remote lake surrounded by a ring of mountains with a beautiful autumn display.

If you haven’t already visited, Conwy Castle is only a few miles from here. It’s one of the best castles in the world, and not to be missed.

It’s also worth a journey high up above the other – eastern – side of the Conwy valley, taking the B5113 for a wonderful roof-of-the-world panorama of Snowdonia’s peaks, with autumn colour from the Gwydyr forest and foreground trees.

The Snowdonia range itself has some autumn colour, mostly along the scenic A498 road that runs down from the Llanberis Pass to Beddgelert. The first lake you reach, Llyn Gwynant, nestles deep at the bottom of a dramatic valley, at the foot of Y Lliwedd, one of Snowdon’s immediate neighbours. 

Three miles further on, Llyn Dinas is also spectacular, and both lakes seem to attract their fair share of early morning autumn mists to make a glorious start to the day.

Snowdonia’s coast and southern section – all the way down to Cadair Idris and the Dovey estuary – also have beautiful pockets of autumn colour.

Portmeirion, the Italianate fantasy village on the Dwyryd estuary, is particularly striking on a clear autumn day, surrounded by some outstanding colours.

Mid Wales and the Cambrian Mountains

The Cambrian Mountains – the remote series of mountains and upland areas running from Plynlimon in the north to Llyn Brianne lake in the south – also offer some wonderful rewards for autumn hunters.

A paradox of this mostly unpopulated area is that although it is largely empty, unexplored and remote, much of the landscape has been shaped by humankind, with a series of reservoirs created along the length of the range.

The Elan Valley is one of the best places to visit in Mid Wales. It’s a series of reservoirs and dams built to supply the city of Birmingham – across the English border – with water. The dams were built in the 1890s and 1900, with the nearby Claerwen dam being added by 1952.

If you’re wondering where to see autumn colours in the UK, the Elan Valley is a great place to start. It’s also a wonderful place to drive, cycle, walk or go off-road.

The B4518 road loops out of the nearby town of Rhayader, joining and following the lakes before returning to the town after a magnificent scenic 20 mile journey.

The first spot for autumn watchers is the picturesque long stone arched bridge that sits on top of the submerged Garreg-ddu dam, which is surrounded by trees which go golden by the end of October.

From here, a side road leads up towards the Claerwen dam, following the small river of the same name as it winds its way to where it joins the Elan reservoirs.

Otherwise, continue along the ‘main’ road past Garreg-ddu and Pen-y-garreg reservoirs, climbing into more open country, with what we think is the highlight of the drive, Craig-goch dam, in an amazing setting with its lake just behind and the rusty bracken-covered mountains behind glowing in the late afternoon light.

The area around Llyn Clywedog is also a great area to catch autumn colours in Wales.   The reservoir is around 30 miles (50 km) to the north of the Elan Valley, a few miles (8 km) north west of the town of Llanidloes, and the best way to see it is by rejoining the B4518 road as it leaves Llanidloes, climbing steeply up the ‘big dipper’ road which runs along the northern shore of the lake.

It’s a scene which can look amazing on a still morning, the water like mirror glass reflecting the hills above, and mists collecting in the valley.

Alternatively, there is another minor road which climbs around the west end of the lake, passing close to an exhilarating section of the Glyndwr’s Way National Trail, with views over the dam.

Brecon Beacons and around

The Brecon Beacons National Park extends from Carmarthenshire in the west to the English border in the east, and is made up of several distinct sections.

Starting in the west, the area around Carreg Cennen Castle , has some wonderful pockets of autumn colour. This is remote country, between the market town of Llandeilo and the bare Black Mountain escarpment.

Carreg Cennen is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe , and one of the best places to visit in West Wales.

Just to the west of Llandeilo, the verdant rich Tywi (Towy) valley also produces some fine autumn hues, and has been known to deliver some wonderful morning mists with castles on hilltops (Dryslwyn and Dinefwr) peeking through to catch the first rays of light of the day.

Around twenty miles (30 km) east, between the villages of Ystradfellte and Pontneddfechan, several small rivers have carved gorges through the wooded limestone hills to create a series of steep valleys and waterfalls.

A network of paths follow the rivers, so nearly all the Brecon Beacons waterfalls are accessible to walkers. The forest is flooded with autumn colour for a few weeks, and photographers head back there year after year.

The Angel Inn in Pontneddfechan is a well-known starting point for the easiest of the walks, a half hour stroll through the woods to Sgwd Gwladys (Gwladys Falls, also known as Lady Falls).

If the river is low, follow a goat’s path above this waterfall, ford the river a few times and you reach Sgwd Einion Gam, a much higher, more dramatic fall.

The central range of the Brecon Beacons, centring on the two highest peaks, Pen y Fan and Corn Du, are largely treeless, but the surrounding valleys are full of colour during autumn.  

One of my favourite drives through the Brecon Beacons in autumn is along the A40 and Honddu (later the Usk) valley between Brecon and Crickhowell, passing the main peaks  near the start of the drive, then reaching the Black Mountains – the easternmost part of the National Park – around the village of Bwlch.

Beyond Crickhowell, the road continues to the north of the river, eventually reaching Abergavenny. From there it’s a few miles up the A465 road towards Hereford before the turn for the remote Llanthony valley, whose trees and bracken give the steep valley sides plenty of dashes of warm autumn colour.

One of the birthplaces of modern tourism in the late 18 th century, the Wye Valley is shared between Wales and England. 

Its source (like that of the Severn) is on the slopes of Plynlimon in Mid Wales, and it begins its journey south eastwards, through Rhayader and Builth Wells towards the border at Hay.

It then returns to Wales near Monmouth, winding its way through a steep wooded valley en route to the sea, where it enjoys a brief reunion with its old neighbour the Severn.

The upper Wye receives far less visitors but has some outstanding autumn scenery – the view from a hill above the village of Erwood is magnificent early in the day, when some mist may still linger in the valley.

The lower Wye, between Monmouth and Chepstow, is a great hour-long drive, but with detours and walks, you could easily spend two or three days exploring. 

The most obvious attraction is Tintern Abbey, its great 13 th century church left open to the elements for almost five centuries. The valley is heavily wooded either side, with the rich autumn colours forming a beautiful backdrop for a few short weeks.

There are plenty of forest walks along the lower valley. The river forms the border with England for the final part of its journey, and there are paths both sides. The walk across the bridge at Tintern and up into the forest to the dramatic Devils Pulpit (1 hour each way) is very rewarding.

Back on the Welsh side, one of our favourites is Bargain Wood, high above the village of Llandogo a few miles north of Tintern, taking in a series of viewpoints along a ridge overlooking the valley.

No trip to the Welsh side of the Wye Valley would be complete without a walk up to the Eagles Nest viewpoint, which overlooks one of the final meanders in the Wye’s journey to the sea.  

It is the culmination and high point of a grand walk from the Piercefield Estate below, part of which now borders Chepstow racecourse.

The viewpoint is accessible via the 365 Steps walk from the Lower Wyndcliff car park below, or the much easier stroll through the woods from the Upper Wyndcliff car park. Both are a short drive from the village of St Arvans, just outside Chepstow.

Cardiff and Around

Cardiff has some magnificent parkland, and some of this comes into its own in the array of autumn colours.  one of the greenest cities in Europe becomes one of its most golden for two or three weeks each year.

It’s also packed with some of the best sights to see in Wales, and is very much a year-round destination. Cardiff is definitely one of the best places in Wales to base yourself, especially with so many other places to visit in South Wales so close by.

The place to start is Bute Park, next door to Cardiff Castle, right in the middle of the city. It is a designated historic landscape, formerly the private garden of the Marquesses of Bute who resided at the Castle.

Coopers Field, at the city end of the park, is the place to see the trees at their best, with walks along a canal, past the Castle or just around the corner, to the River Taff.

After around 400 metres, a bridge connects the Park with Sophia Gardens and the cricket stadium of the same name, one of England’s Test cricket venues.  The parkland continues both sides of the river, finishing on the western side at Llandaff Fields, over two miles away from the other end of Bute Park.

Roath Park, two miles to the north-east of the city centre, is another wonderful autumn spot, Here, the parkland is divided into three sections, culminating in the botanical garden and lake with its iconic tower.

Some years ago, Castell Coch, a remodelled castle on a wooded hill on the outskirts of Cardiff, was voted the people of Wales’ favourite building. It is also one of the best autumn locations in the country, the beech forest around providing a spectacular backdrop for the fairytale castle.

The views from the car park are amazing, and for keen photographers a wander around the parks and paths of the adjacent village, Tongwynlais, will reveal plenty more autumn views.

Autumn is also a great time to catch a sunrise at nearby Caerphilly Castle. The castle is surrounded by lakes, and on a still autumn morning mists often rise from the water, creating a real sense of mystique around the silhouette of the castle.

Best Places to Visit in Wales in Autumn Map

I created this map in google maps to help you locate all the places I have mentioned in this guide. Click on the map and it will take you to google maps where you can get directions to each of these locations.

Wales In Autumn – Final Words

I hope you’ve found my article on Wales in autumn inspirational. Wales can look stunning in autumn – and hopefully you’ll get some sunshine and dodge some of the rain that’s prevalent at this time of year.

If you have enjoyed this article, I suggest you also take a look at my article on the most beautiful landscapes in Wales . My article on the best rivers in Wales to visit also takes you through some of the loveliest autumn colours in Wales – particularly the River Wye and River Dee.

I also suggest reading my articles on the best things to do in Betws-y-Coed and things to do in Llangollen for more ideas on places to see locally. Both areas are prime autumn colour territory, and you also get some amazing river valley mists during autumn.

It’s also worth taking a look at my Snowdonia road trip article, which has four different itineraries. If you want to catch the best of the Snowdonia autumn colours, follow the first and shortest itinerary past Llyn Gwynant and Llyn Dinas, two of the loveliest lakes in Wales .

Autumn is a great time to explore castles around Wales. Take a look at my guides to the best castles in North Wales and best castles in South Wales for ideas on the best castles to visit.

And for an overview of the very best places to visit in Wales, check out my Wales Bucket List guide.

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

More From Forbes

5 u.k. birdwatching destinations to visit this autumn.

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The European robin is often considered the national bird of the United Kingdom.

While the United Kingdom boasts its fair share of captivating cities—London, Edinburgh and Liverpool, to name a few—this famed European nation is also home to some truly impressive pockets of wilderness, each one boasting a wealth of fascinating species. For birdwatchers in particular, can’t-miss destinations span from the marshes of southern England to the craggy interior of northern Scotland, with each region offering particularly picturesque landscapes as an added bonus. In an effort to highlight the spectacular biodiversity of the United Kingdom, rental company Party Houses has compiled a list of can’t-miss spots across the country, providing ample opportunity for birdwatchers to plan their next vacation.

RSPB Exminster Marshes, Devon

The Eurasian curlew is sometimes referred to as the "whaup" in the Scots language.

In the southwestern reaches of England, Devon’s Exminster Marshes serve as a crucial safe haven for all sorts of waders, passerines and waterfowl, with the park’s native wetland habitats carefully monitored by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Upon arrival, visitors are welcome to tackle the region’s four-kilometer loop trail in search of common redshanks, sedge warblers, brent geese and a wealth of other birds that thrive along the water’s edge, while autumn visitors can look forward to species like the Eurasian curlew—a tall wader with a long, curved bill—as well as the pintail, a large duck that’s renowned for its lengthy feathers.

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Cairngorms National Park was officially established in 2003.

While Cairngorms National Park boasts its fair share of mammals ranging from red squirrels to roe deer, the preserve is also a haven for all sorts of European birds, with snow buntings and crested tits found in abundance within its borders. During the cooler months, visitors can spot the occasional flock of crossbills—a genus of small passerines that use their unique beaks to feed on conifers—while raptor fans should be sure to keep their eyes on the skies in search of golden eagles soaring above. Meanwhile, truly fortunate visitors may encounter a western capercaillie, a large grouse species that engages in a particularly intricate mating ritual.

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Saw the eclipse, aurora and perseids now see a fourth rare sky event, mega millions jackpot hits $740 million—here’s how much a winner could take home after taxes, rspb bempton cliffs, east yorkshire.

The Atlantic puffin is the only extant puffin species that's found outside of the Pacific Ocean.

East Yorkshire’s Bempton Cliffs are renowned for their spectacular beauty, but this towering natural feature has a lot more to offer than just its looks. During a stroll along the preserve’s nature trail, visiting birdwatchers can keep their eyes peeled for migratory passerines like the northern wheatear and red-breasted flycatcher, while native seals can also be found dotting the shoreline as an added bonus. While the preserve is idyllic all throughout the year, tourists arrive in droves during the summer to marvel at the high concentration of breeding seabirds, with puffins, guillemots and gannets all congregating along the cliffs.

Fair Isle, Shetland

The Fair Isle wren is a close relative of the more widespread Eurasian wren.

Fair Isle may not be the easiest place to access, but those willing to travel to this isolated island will be richly rewarded with a wealth of rare bird sightings along its shores. Throughout autumn, the destination springs to life with all sorts of migratory warblers—Pallas’s and yellow-browed being two particularly notable varieties—while the local bird observatory has been in place since 1948, providing guests with ample opportunity to swap intel with fellow birders. In between warbler-watching and scanning the coastline for seabirds, visitors should also keep an eye out for the Fair Isle wren, an endemic subspecies of the Eurasian wren.

RSPB Arne, Dorset

The Eurasian spoonbill develops a crest during breeding season.

The spectacular natural beauty of southern England is on full display across RSPB Arne, a lush preserve situated on the edge of Poole Harbour. While the park is popular with birdwatchers all throughout the year, fall brings the opportunity to marvel at Eurasian spoonbills as they sift through the sediment for prey, while the dartford warbler is a resident species that’s particularly easy to spot during autumn. In addition to ample birdwatching opportunities, RSPB Arne doubles as a top destination for herping, as each of the United Kingdom’s six native reptiles can be found thriving within its boundaries.

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Where is hot in October? Best holiday destinations for autumn sun 2024

Escape the increasingly chilly weather to catch some last-minute sun before winter sets in, article bookmarked.

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As October draws near, here in the UK we will soon be saying goodbye to the warm summer months and greeting the beginning of cloudy days, colder temperatures and higher levels of rainfall.

While October is rarely a good month for consistent sunny weather at home, there are several destinations abroad that continue to be graced with high temperatures and greater sunshine hours.

With kids back in school and many people avoiding holidays so close to the busy Christmas period, October is an excellent – and often affordable – month for an autumn getaway.

Southern European cities, including Seville and Valetta, stay pleasantly warm and have little rainfall during the month, while countries in the Southern Hemisphere are only just beginning to enter their own summer period.

With careful planning (namely, finding out climate information and avoiding the half-term holidays) you can find great value holidays to destinations across the world still soaking up the sun. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best.

Best autmn sun holiday destinations

Seville, spain.

• Average temperature in October: 20C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 7

October brings cooler temperatures to continental Europe’s warmest city, but daily highs still reach a pleasant 26C. This makes it a great month to explore the Andalusian capital as you can avoid the sweltering summer temperatures while sightseeing. For a real look into Moorish architecture and influence, start at the Casa de Pilatos before moving onto the Torre del Oro and then the Alcazar and its gardens. Beside this sits the city’s cathedral – a gothic marvel that is among the largest churches in the world – and the Giralda Tower.

For those who prefer to simply wander around, the banks of the Guadalquivir River make a great first stop on any long walk, with lovely places to eat and drink with a view. The María Luisa Park – and its centrepiece, the Plaza de Espana – are worthy of an extended visit, as are the numerous sites built for the Ibero-American Expo of 1929 (such as the Plaza de America).

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Seville

Valetta, Malta

• Average temperature in October: 22C

October falls in Malta’s shoulder season, but temperatures in the capital remain high enough for an enjoyable, sun-kissed trip. With highs around 25C, October is a great time to explore the city while avoiding the scorching heat that you may experience in the summer months. The city itself is a Unesco World Heritage Site, with a variety of Baroque architecture and several walls and fortifications providing pleasant sightseeing opportunities as you explore. The main tourist sights include St John’s Co-Cathedral, Fort St Elmo (and the National War Museum) and the Grandmaster’s Palace.

Nevertheless, the city is far more than just old castles and religious sites. The waterfront features a collection of 18th-century warehouse buildings that now house various restaurants, cafes and shops along the promenade, while the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens are the city’s main green spaces. October also sees the city’s annual Notte Bianca festival, an arts celebration that takes place in various venues across the city, for example, at the City Gates (this year, it will be held on October 5).

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Malta

Read more on travel inspiration :

• The best holidays to book for September 2024, from French islands to US road trips
• Where is hot in September? Best holiday destinations for late summer sun
• The best holiday destinations in Europe you can reach by train from London

Oahu, Hawaii, USA

• Average temperature in October: 27C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 8

While all of the Hawaiian islands are undeniably idyllic, Oahu is the first pick due to the presence of an American metropolis, dozens of areas of amazing natural beauty and high temperatures reaching 29C. The city of Honolulu (the state capital) has all the classic character of any American city – with skyscrapers rising high and bars and restaurants serving standard American fare – but with the addition of a beachside location with a rainforest backdrop. This combination makes it a city unlike any other.

But despite this unique capital city being the ‘centre point’ of the island, it is far from the island’s biggest draw. Hundreds of incredible beaches line the coasts, with stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters found on beaches including Waikiki and Lanikai. Other natural areas worth exploring include the Waimea Canyon State Park, Kaena Point, or the various tours of the (privately-owned) Kualoa Ranch, famous as the filming location for the original Jurassic Park films.

Sardinia, Italy

• Average temperature in October: 18C

This Mediterranean island has long been a top tourist destination, with its popularity among Italians adding to its reputation as a great pick for a holiday. While average temperatures only hover around 18C, average highs still climb to around 24C, making the island a great choice for that last bit of autumn sun. The waters will also be warm, meaning you can relax on the beach (or take part in any number of water sports) in areas like the Costa Smeralda or Cala Goloritzé.

While spending all your time kicking back at various beaches may be tempting, part of the lure of Sardinia is the opportunity for exploration . The island contains some of the most picturesque towns in Italy , with Alghero, Bosa, San Teodoro, and several others home to medieval buildings, castles and colourful riverside houses. If you’d rather stay in nature, there are also three National Parks and ten regional parks, with Asinara and Gennargentu among the most beautiful.

• Average temperature in October: 23C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 10

One of the warmest places in Europe during October, Cyprus offers temperatures in the high 20s. The island was granted independence in 1960 but has an extensive history involving ancient Greeks, Romans and many other historic civilisations. If you want to delve deeper into this history, some of its most famous landmarks include the Tombs of the Kings, Kolossi Castle and the ancient city of Kourion.

While many of its towns and cities, for example, Paphos and Larnaca, are also steeped in history, today the island enjoys a reputation as a tourist hotspot with pristine, sun-soaked beaches, a healthy Mediterranean lifestyle, beautiful natural surroundings (such as the Troodos Mountains) and dozens of villages (including Omodos and Lefkara) where visitors can experience well-preserved Cypriot traditions, cuisine and culture.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Cyprus

Algarve, Portugal

Tucked away on the southernmost region of Portugal’s mainland, the Algarve has, on average, more sunshine per year than California does, and October does not miss out on these rays. Sun seekers can be found bathing in the Algarve’s hot weather along the region’s wealth of beaches, bays and coves.

The Algarve is famous for its long stretches of silky-soft sand that roll on for miles, but the area is also ideal for hiking around the diverse terrains while the temperatures are not so intensely hot. There are hundreds of trails to choose from, but one of the best known is the Via Algarviana, which is an old pilgrims’ route that connects the seaside of Cabo de São Vicente to mountainous terrain further inland. If taking a hike is not your bag, Faro’ s charming old town offers historical sites, such as the Chapel of Bones.

• Average temperature in October: 21C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 9

As an Indian Ocean island nation, Mauritius is always going to have to compete with the Maldives and the Seychelles in the ‘idyllic beach holiday’ stakes. While the latter two arguably steal the limelight, this African country (found 1,130km east of Madagascar) still contains many of the attractions that make its ‘rivals’ so popular. The weather is still perfect in October – with average highs reaching around 27C – so it’s another great month for sampling the country’s scenic beaches, with soft white sand and crystalline turquoise water. Water-based activities are popular too, with opportunities for diving, swimming and snorkelling (along the numerous coral reefs), as well as kayaking and canoeing.

If too much beach begins to bore you, fear not: the island also contains several other natural areas, including Black River Gorges National Park (covered in tropical rainforest) and the Casela Nature Park. When you’re ready to return to civilisation, towns such as Flic-en-Flac and Grand Baie possess a pleasant mix of daytime relaxation and lively evenings.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Mauritius

Rhodes, Greece

Another one of Greece’s seemingly endless list of important historical locations, Rhodes was once home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Nowadays, it is home to a medieval Old Town that is listed as a Unesco Heritage Site, with visitors flocking to the city (and the island in general) to see well-preserved fortifications, narrow limestone streets and historic sites, including the Street of Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master or the Lindos Acropolis.

Like almost every Greek island , Rhodes also possesses beautiful beaches and towns. Places like Lindos and Faliraki have gorgeous beaches that are perfect for a dip in the Aegean; with the backdrop of mountainside towns and quaint villages, they’re also a great place to visit a taverna or sample meze at the end of a long day of relaxation.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Rhodes

Cape Town, South Africa

• Average temperature in October: 24C

October marks the start of spring in Cape Town , with temperatures rising to pleasant levels and average highs staying at a manageable 24C. One of South Africa’s three capital cities (the legislative capital), Cape Town is a popular destination for Brits looking to travel further afield. Its various neighbourhoods are an eclectic blend of vibrant, lively districts with a mix of locals and tourists, calm beach areas, and artistic and creative hubs, with the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay and Bo-Kaap among them.

Many people head to the city for its mix of urban living and natural sites. The Cape Floristic Region and West Coast National Park are nearby natural areas, while the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular sites in the city. Lion’s Head and Table Mountain offer hiking opportunities with amazing views of the city below, but the plethora of sandy beaches and hidden coves may be too tempting to divert from relaxation.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• Average temperature in October: 26C
• Hours of sunshine per day: 5

Brazil ’s temperatures tend to start to climb in October as the summer months only just begin in the Southern Hemisphere, making it a perfect time to travel that little further to visit the country’s second-largest city. While December to February are Rio de Janeiro’s peak summer months, October may be the better option for budget travellers who want to avoid the peak summer prices.

There is plenty to see in this city, such as journeying to the top of the mountain where Christ the Redeemer looks over at the streets below, partaking in Rio de Janeiro ’s nightlife in the Lapa neighbourhood, or visiting Santa Teresa for a more chilled night out on the town. However, for those seeking to soak up a bit of sun, the city is also home to some iconic stretches of beach . Visiting the two-and-a-half mile-long Copacabana beach may be on your bucket list, but a trip to the slightly less well-known but just as beautiful Ipanema beach is also a great choice.

Read our reviews of the best beaches in Brazil

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When does autumn start in the UK in 2024 and what is the autumnal equinox?

With severe rain lashing parts of the UK including London amid weather warnings, it’s safe to say that the best part of summer might be over.

It won’t be long before the clocks go back and we’re dusting off winter jackets for Halloween, Bonfire Night, and Christmas.

Colder weather and darker mornings will be back before we know it when autumn returns.

While some people will mourn the warm summer months, others can’t wait to get cosy again.

If you can’t wait for summer to end — or you want to make the most of the season — here’s how long there is left before the official start of autumn.

When does autumn start in the UK?

Autumn begins in September in the UK (and the Northern Hemisphere). However, the date depends on whether you follow the astronomical or the meteorological calendar, as they measure the seasons differently.

When is the astronomical autumn in the UK?

The astronomical calendar is based on the sun’s position relative to the Earth.

The Met Office says: “The astronomical calendar determines the seasons due to the 23.5 degrees of tilt of the Earth’s rotational axis in relation to its orbit around the sun.”

This year, astronomical autumn in the Nothern Hemisphere starts on September 22 and ends on December 21.

When is the meteorological autumn in the UK?

Meteorological seasons split the year into four seasons, each comprising three months.

The meteorological seasons are defined as spring (March, April, May); summer (June, July, August); autumn (September, October, November); and winter (December, January, February).

According to the meteorological season, autumn always starts in the Northern Hemisphere on September 1 and ends on November 30.

When is the autumn equinox in the UK?

The autumn equinox marks the start of the season, meaning it’ll take place on September 22 this year.

Royal Museums Greenwich says the time of this year’s autumn equinox is 12.44pm GMT (1.44pm BST).

Equinoxes mark the start of spring and autumn, while solstices herald summer and winter.

UK has seen its coolest summer since 2015, says Met Office

When is the next half term? Term and holiday dates for autumn and winter 2024

Make more of London this autumn with these exciting experiences

“On the autumn equinox, day and night are of roughly equal length and the nights will become increasingly longer than the days, until the spring equinox, when the pattern is reversed,” the Met Office says.

“It also marks the time of year when the northern hemisphere begins to tilt away from the sun, resulting in less direct sunlight and consequently the cooling temperatures.”

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The Only Autumn/Winter 2024 Fashion Trends Worth Prioritising, According to Experts

I know what you're thinking. Isn't it a touch soon to be talking about autumn/winter 2024 fashion trends ? For those of us who see fashion for all that it is and all that it can be—a form of expression, a facet of your personality, and in my own experience, one of the reasons I get out of bed in the morning—it never feels too soon. And I can say with certainty that designers have given us a lot to look forward to next season. That doesn't mean, however, that I don't find writing this—what has become the most important story I pen each year—hard, because I do.

No less because of the blank page I'm presented with at the beginning of the process—by the time I close my laptop, I'll have written around 5,000 words distilling the most noteworthy trends that stand out from the 8,000 autumn/winter 2024 looks—but because of the impact it could have when out in the world. And the world right now is a very difficult place to be.

Like anyone with the privilege of having an online voice, regardless of the subject matter to which you speak, it feels remiss of me not to first acknowledge the conflict around us. Wars are raging and some of the most crucial governmental elections of our time lie ahead. I admit that writing about what I do sometimes feels frivolous in comparison to the daily headlines I read on the BBC. Still, along with hopes for peace, I hope this feature affords you some gentle relief for a moment—the same relief I was afforded in writing it.

You could say we've had to do a lot of growing up lately, and the wider A/W 2024 fashion trends are a reflection of that. Whilst it would be false to say that Y2K style is no longer relevant—you need only glance at your FYP on TikTok to know that the noughties aesthetic is still very much a thing—I am comfortable declaring that it is no longer reigning over fashion. Over the past few months, we've seen a shift towards elegant and sophisticated dressing, a notion that countless designers underlined for autumn 2024. Well-cut skirt suits , tailored coats, smart handbags, sharp shoes and chic shift dresses come together to create a wardrobe that's made for women, not little girls.

Sharing this sentiment were the season's casting directors. According to fashion data platform Tagwalk , 70% of the top 20 brands this season (the rankings of which are determined by several factors, including social engagement and Google searches surrounding said brands) included "older" models in their shows. In the interest of being transparent, this means models aged 30 and over, but during my own runway research, I have to admit that older models were more apparent than I've ever seen before.

Ageing well is a theme designers have been relentlessly exploring for the past few seasons. I—a person who loves fashion but is reluctant to part with her cash—will always advocate for a slow trend cycle. As a writer, however, I was beginning to worry about what I'd even write about for next season. So help me if I have to think up a new way to spin the term " quiet luxury "! This also served as the central theme for a recent conversation with some colleagues over dinner: Has fashion become too "real"? Is unique style a thing of the past?

As someone who will always prefer neutrals to noisy prints, I enjoy the level of stylish anonymity that comes with such pieces. Still, as an observer, there's nothing I love more than when someone walks into a room with the confidence to wear something bold and brimming with character. For autumn 2024, many designers are encouraging us to dress with personality again, be it through colour, fabric, form or a combination of the three. New styling suggestions, talking-point motifs and statement silhouettes are all here to play. From the subtle to the standout, whichever end of the style spectrum your wardrobe leans towards, designers are inviting you to embrace it completely and unashamedly next season. Liberating? You could say that, though liberation is apparently easier to attain when you're a size 6.

According to Vogue Business , there has been "an incremental decrease in total size inclusivity across New York, London, Milan and Paris." Of the 8,800 looks presented across 230 shows and presentations for autumn/winter 2024, 0.8% were plus size (UK 16+), 3.7% were mid size (UK 10-14) and 95.5% were straight size (UK 4-8). Further findings by Vogue Business suggest that new appointments have equated to old casting habits. As stated by the publication, A/W 2024 was "punctuated with a series of designer debuts at major houses. Many of the new appointments were men, which appeared to affect size inclusivity results." One only needs to think of designers such as Phoebe Philo, Jil Sander and Gabriela Hearst and how their approach to fashion offers both substance and intellect, designed with the modern wearer—the modern woman —in mind. How this compares to clothes designed for women through the male gaze is up for debate.

Is there another reason brands struggled to dress plus-size bodies for the upcoming season? Perhaps it's the prospect of actually having to dress women as opposed to draping them in skimpy strips of fabric and parading them down the runway in the attempt to say, "Hey, look at us; we're not scared to show plus-size skin. We're inclusive!" I'm not buying it. Spring/summer runway looks typically tend to be less "wearable"; there's a sort of "It's hot—you don't need to wear a lot" mentality to many of the designs, and some use this as a way to appear inclusive.

But really, it's periodical tokenism. In the colder months, when designers should craft clothes that genuinely work for the season and fit all kinds of bodies, brands quickly deprioritise inclusivity. Needless to say, there's still a lot of work to be done here. For now, I can guide you to the brands that were body-positivity allies this season—Sinéad O'Dwyer (the most size-inclusive brand of all that showed for the season), Edeline Lee, Cecilie Bahnsen, Bach Mai, Ester Manas, Collina Strada and Di Petsa.

When all is said and done, there is still something very joyful about the collections for next season. In terms of colour, this might be one of the brightest autumn/winter seasons on record (even if the overarching hue was, admittedly, an earthy one). A focus on fun fabrics was key, with designers such as Erdem and David Koma taking the plume approach with froths of feathers—even on shoes! Leather is glossier than ever, checks have gone jumbo and hemlines are puffed to perfection. Indeed, there's beauty to be found wherever you look for autumn, though I recommend starting here.

Keep reading for our comprehensive rundown of the most noteworthy autumn/winter 2024 fashion trends, featuring expert insights and acute observations from Who What Wear UK's esteemed editors.

THE BIGGEST AUTUMN 2024 FASHION TRENDS

• Dress Like a Debutant
• Swathes of Fabric
• Burgundy Bags
• Cardigan Club
• Barrel Silhouettes
• Khaki Comeback
• There's Something About Chloé
• Check, Please
• To the Point
• Power Puff Girls
• Liquid Leather
• Roll with It
• Join the Flock
• Bring on the Belts
• Satin Spotlight
• Double-Dose Denim
• Big-Cat Energy

1. DRESS LIKE A DEBUTANT

Glamour and elegance aren't always mutually exclusive and, this season, one of the biggest shifts we're seeing is a return to refined dressing. Things felt especially prim and proper at Erdem, a brand that has long championed sophistication over shock value. Duchess satin dresses and tweed twinsets populated its collection while, over at Simone Rocha, faux furs came pre-adorned with heirloom-looking brooch embellishments. Thus creating a stunning capsule that would befit a New York heiress in the 1950s.

"Give me a vintage silhouette and a pair of black shades good enough for Jackie Kennedy herself, and I will come running," affirms our senior fashion and beauty editor for branded content, Rebecca Rhys-Evans . "‘Debutant dressing’, as my colleague has so cutely coined it, is the reemergence of some of the most-used styles of the 1950s and '60s. Think shift dresses, faux-fur shawls and wool swing coats, which make a stark change to the sporty and streetwear aesthetics and Y2K trends we’ve become accustomed to at Fashion Month in recent years.

"There is perhaps no one to thank more for this than Miuccia Prada herself, who not only recently introduced this era to Prada’s collections, but has long advocated for this style sensibility at Miu Miu—let’s not forget that along with the ultra-short miniskirts the brand’s ‘frazzled English woman’ also had cashmere cardigans, pearls and below-the-knee skirts, too. What’s evident amongst many of the catwalks this season, is that it’s as much down to accessories as it is ready-to-wear. Over-the-elbow gloves and brooches at Erdem, Lady bags at Genny and Celine and pearl necklaces, well, everywhere, it seems many of us have been watching Mad Men and Feud: Truman Capote vs. The Swans ."

SHOP THE TREND:

2. SWATHES OF FABRIC

Between the headlines and what seems to be a perpetual state of time slipping through our fingers, designers have anticipated that, by the time autumn hits, we'll be in need of some comfort. Cue clothes that, quite literally, swaddled models on the runway. While this cold-feeling editor is certainly pleased about this, the trend goes beyond keeping one cosy. In fact, it might just be the most luxurious of the season, as Who What Wear's editor-in-chief Hannah Almassi observes.

"What separates mass-market fashion from luxury fashion? Fabric! Cut and finish are, of course, of the utmost importance too, but affordable brands simply cannot compete when it comes to fabric both in terms of the quality of the bolt, but also the volume designer houses are able to use thanks to their higher price points. So what could be more luxurious than swathes of fabric? There is something dramatic and fabulous about the swoop of a gigantic scarf or cape across one's body, and with the autumn/winter 2024 runways referencing multiple bygones eras (the '50s, '70s, '80s and '90s were all present) this is a styling trick that brings some old-school glamour without being tied to a specific aesthetic or era. Chic and warm? Sign me up."

3. BURGUNDY BAGS

When the "quiet luxury" aesthetic first came to the fore, much of the collections that followed were devoid of colour. Instead, designers collectively embarked on a thorough exploration of all-things neutral which I might have personally enjoyed (personally I've never really gravitated towards bright hues). Still, as a fashion editor, it did make my writing feel a little stale. Although not bright by any stretch of the imagination, I was pleased to see some semblance of colour seep back onto the runway this season, and one of the most prevalent ways it did so was by way of burgundy bags.

Rich in tone and in style pay-off, there's something that looks so expensive about burgundy bags. Of course, the styles in the designer collections naturally are, but even those on the affordable end of the market still boast an air of polish. Confirming we're going to see a lot of this bag trend in the coming months is Net-a-Porter's market director Libby Page .

"Burgundy bags garnered focus at Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Ferragamo and are a great way to add colour to a carefully curated capsule wardrobe; I have my eye on Savette’s The Tondo Crescent Leather Shoulder Bag (£1265)." Great, now I do, too.

4. CARDIGAN CLUB

This season, designers came together to write love letters to some of the most unassuming and often overlooked garments in our wardrobe. Whilst we'll explore more of those later, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on the style journey the humble cardigan has taken. Once considered an integral part of the grandparent uniform (I swear, my Scottish granny must have had 30+ cardigans of different colours, weaves and thickness), the piece has since been adopted by stylish types across the world. Alexa Chung wears hers with miniskirts, while French women style theirs with flare jeans and sans tops underneath. Now, the autumn 2024 runways are a testament to its impressive transition.

"Cardigans are entering the mainstream, picked up by designers and cool-girls alike," observes social media editor Megan Storey . "Whether it’s a classic bouclé number at Chanel or structured silhouettes at Stella McCartney each designer is giving their own twist to the librarian-esque knit. I love the practicality of this trend: the warmth of a jumper coupled with the functionality of a jacket? I'm sold."

5. BARREL SILHOUETTES

Trousers have dominated the chicest looks, the runways and the wider trend agenda for the past few years now—so much so, that it's made even me—someone who exclusively wore dresses for the past 10 years—change her ways. And just when we thought every trouser style had already been presented at the fashion alter for consideration, another once-forgotten silhouette has proven itself worthy of the runway treatment.

"Love it or hate it, barrel-leg silhouettes have been climbing everyone’s wish lists ever since barrel-leg jeans were introduced in Alaïa’s collection last year," confirms Lyst 's content editor Morgane Speed . "With its unusual shape that curves out at the hip and tapers in at the ankle, the barrel-leg may seem a bit intimidating, but styling it simply involves accentuating its sculptural shape while minimising distractions." Further to Speed's point, Lyst data shows that searches for barrel-leg jeans and trousers increased by 52% from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024, precisely when the autumn/winter 2024 runway shows fell. Needless to say, the market is responding to that want.

"At Net-a-Porter, we’ve seen a shift towards more oversized and wide-leg silhouettes. Street style has embraced baggy, low-slung styles and added a more androgynous touch to our wardrobes," affirms Page. "The architectural shape of Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Frayed High-Eise Wide-Leg Jeans (£340) elevates any smart-casual dress code."

6. KHAKI COMEBACK

For autumn 2024, we're going to see a lot of monotone dressing . Wearing one colour top-to-toe has long been a discipline used by celebrity stylists to make their clients' outfits feel more pulled together and cohesive—something we saw reflected in the runway looks that applied the same logic. However, it was only when I started to review the imagery I'd sourced for this trend report that it struck me just how many looks were khaki. "Tonal dressing, as seen at Bottega Veneta and Ferragamo, appears as a standout trend for autumn/winter with hues of khaki, rust, and brown taking centre stage," observes Page . Whilst I will list the key colour trends for A/W 24 soon, suffice it to say that earthy green is the most prevalent of them all.

"Every season I keep my eyes peeled for the next big colour trend. I’m a minimalist at heart—90% of my wardrobe is black, with just a splattering of white dresses for summer—but that doesn’t mean I’m not deeply invested in the hue that everyone is going to be talking about and wearing over the coming months," says managing editor Poppy Nash . "For S/S 2024, we saw baby blue take the helm, but for autumn/winter, a deep khaki is taking over. Modern but still timeless and sophisticated, I love how the rich green shade can add a classy and expensive-looking tone to an otherwise simple look.

"On the runways, we saw the colour dominate in the form of tonal dressing; Burberry, Ferragamo and Ulla Johnson showcased full khaki looks, with the outerwear and the accessories—not to mention everything in between—drenched in the olive tone. But if, like me, you just want to dip your toe into the trend, consider investing in a khaki blazer this autumn, or opt for shirts and tees that you can layer under some of your existing autumn/winter staples."

7. THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT CHLOÉ

Sometimes, one collection has the power to spark an entire fashion movement, birthing an entirely new aesthetic without it ever having to feature on another runway. Of this ilk, Gucci springs to mind, when it singlehandedly ushered us into an age of geekcore with its A/W 2015 collection. Now, however, times have moved on; style is sleeker and customers yearn for pieces that will stand the test of time and, perhaps, act as an investment for future fashion resale. And, let me tell you, clothes and accessories from Chloé's autumn/winter 2024 collection will become swiftly become collector's items.

Whilst Chloé never went away—in recent years the brand has seen major success with cult items, such as its Woody tote bag and matching sandals—but, for 2024, it's definitely reclaimed its crown as one of the most-covetable brands on the market. Its new creative director, Chemena Kamali, created a collection that felt fresh without sacrificing Chloé's unique and beloved DNA, something which we often see when the urge to make one's mark outweighs that of building upon a brand's heritage. "When I was at a fancy dinner in Paris just a few nights after the Chloé show, every French journalist I spoke with was still buzzing from the joy of the debut show from Chemena Kamali—no one had a bad word to say about it, and the almost-instant spike in Google searches for "boho fashion" means we aren't one in our adoration," says Almassi .

"I can say first-hand that it speaks to a millennial group of editors, influencers and stylists who grew up admiring the various boho iterations of the storied French fashion house, aspiring to one day own a wardrobe that felt that free, that romantic and that indulgent. In an age of capsule wardrobes and pared-back luxury, it's good to remember that personal style should be just that—personal—and if your natural fashion leaning is towards the '70s (as it is for me) this is an aesthetic that never really dies. Dressing in an artsy, laid-back way is just as rich and valuable as the more sombre "quiet luxury" looks that have pervaded in high fashion over the past few years."

Sharing this sentiment is Speed , who notes, "Few autumn/winter 2024 shows were as anticipated as Chloé’s, and Chemena Kamali’s debut as the brand’s new creative director was a blend of heritage and innovation that immediately resurrected the boho-chic It-girl aesthetic from the aughts. So much so, searches for Chloé increased 35% in the 48 hours following the brand’s A/W 2024 show in Paris this March."

"With an inclination towards intricate details and tailoring, Chemena Kamali’s debut at Chloé signalled a new era of boho, that combines our love of the extraordinary everyday with the nostalgia of the early Noughties," attests Page . "We expect sheer dresses, lace hosiery, fringe, romantic ruffles and oversized sunglasses to take centre stage in our summer wardrobes. Kamali provided a masterclass in balancing romantic, practical, and playful styles, which is everything we want for our summer wardrobes." One thing's for sure—I'm mighty glad I still have my Chloé Drew bag.

8. CHECK, PLEASE

Whilst there's excitement in unearthing a new trend you know is going to change the face of fashion for a season, as I get older, I've come to appreciate the sound reliability of others. I would assume that checks have featured on every trend report that has ever been published on Who What Wear. However, for A/W 2024, they're significantly punchier than their predecessors. Heritage weaves are still very much a thing—but in bold colour mixes and enlarged motifs. At Balmain, black and white grid checks stole the show, while one of my favourite looks of the season is the green and mustard checked cape coat at Chloé.

"I think we can all probably agree that if spring is the season for florals, then autumn is the season for checks," says Nash . "And this year’s collections prove no different. There’s a distinct air of elegance to this timeless trend, with plenty of designers showcasing the print in the form of maxi wool outerwear, wrap skirts and classic crew-neck sweaters. Bring it into 2024 by clashing it with other prints and mixing textures, or try a full-on chequered look à la Helmut Lang."

9. TO THE POINT

It was easy to forget about the heeled pump for as long as we did. Whilst it has and always will be considered a footwear classic, the pointed-toe court shoe has often been left in the dust by bigger and flashier shoe moments, only to be summoned every once in a while to wear to an interview or to match a tricky occasion dress. But overlook it at your peril, for it was the most popular shoe on the autumn/winter 2024 runways by a mile.

"For autumn 2024, it’s all about sleek pumps in vintage-inspired silhouettes, as seen at Valentino Garavani and Dolce & Gabbana," confirms Page . "Versace’s Embellished mirrored-leather mules make the perfect addition to a day-to-night wardrobe, and can be styled with denim in the day, or an exquisite dress such as Salon 1884's Linea strapless silk gown for a special occasion."

"Whether they’re poking out of a pair of jeans, or paired with an ankle sock, pointed-toe shoes feel like the most-wearable (and ladylike) shoe of the moment," says Storey . "No doubt there’ll be a plethora of point-toe heels at weddings this summer. However if, like me, you’re still stuck on the ballet flat train, look to Isabel Marant and Prada for the ultimate smart-casual point-toe pump."

10. POWER PUFF GIRLS

Since embarking on the days of research that go into creating this trend report, it's with hindsight that I see the '80s undercurrent rippling through the A/W 2024 collections. Between the edgy biker sets and Working Girl business attire, there were countless throwback references, but the most standout and noteworthy was absolutely the combined revival of the puffball and peplum. Found in skirt and dress form, puffed-out hemlines dominated the runways of Molly Goddard and Loewe, whilst Marques' Almeida, whose triumphant LFW return was a firm highlight from the month, turned the volume up a notch on the top half of the body with its array of dresses and tops that burst from the waistline.

"We’ve seen volumised trends take on many forms over the last few seasons; bags have gotten bigger, silhouettes wider, and accessories have become larger than life on the runways," observes assistant social media editor Annie Wheatland-Clinch . "Still, in what might be the most exciting advancement of the trend yet, puff detailing has made a return with designers voluminous features to compliment captivating textures and bright colours. From sleeves to skirt hems, this fresh take on what we might consider an '80s archetype has already made a big impact, we’ve seen the high street introduce puff sleeves across every category while the fashion set continue to embrace this 'bigger is better' attitude and playful point of view on textures. Marry these together and you have a perfectly puffed trend, with all the gloss and gorgeousness of a sweet cherry pie."

"Puffball hemlines are seeing a resurgence and have been worn by the likes of Lila Moss and Julia Fox, owing to their playful and flattering silhouette. This summer I’ll be sporting Chloé’s mini dress as an elevated nod to the trend," says Page .

11. LIQUID LEATHER

When it comes to materials to take note of note for the season 2024, there's one that stands out from the rest: leather. Granted, it might not be the most surprising trend you'll find on this list but it is one of the most everlasting, which is exactly what you want from something that's considered a premium material and, therefore, comes with a higher price tag. From shirts and skirts to dresses and trousers to jackets and coats, leather dominated across all four fashion capitals. Most looks featured a glossy finish, be it vinyl or simply leather so supple it caught the light. There was also a focus on colour, too—while black leather will never be "out", it seems that blues, browns and greens are very much "in".

"We saw a lot more of leather this season compared to the previous, and it had a moment this season with the styling," confirms Page . If that's not enough to convince you, perhaps the numbers will. Lyst reports that post–fashion month searches for leather clothing spiked by 25%—an early indicator of the prevalence it'll have on our wardrobes next season.

12. ROLL WITH IT

Along with the cardigan, we saw designers give the quiet yet ever-reliable roll-neck knit its dues on the autumn/winter 2024 runways. Often used as an accoutrement to bolder top layers, for 2024 the roll-neck knit holds its own with striking colours, chunkier necklines and interesting details such as zips. With the ability to make any outfit feel classier, trust me—this unassuming item is going to have a major impact on the way we dress this year.

"This season always calls for tactical layering, and there’s no item better up to the job than the humble roll neck knit," says news writer Natalie Munro . "In a tall cut that skims the chin, the turtleneck design works to elongate the neck—playing with proportions and adding a healthy dose of drama and elegance to an outfit. Rife across the autumn/winter runways, the elegant layer is set to form the foundation of the best outfits.”

13. JOIN THE FLOCK

Throughout the shows, our editors have taken note of one dominant theme: the use of ultra-tactile fabrics. The usual suspects come in the form of faux fur and sumptuous wool, but leading the charge is something even more fabulous. Across all four cities, feathers were everywhere you looked, and I don't just mean in terms of designers, but where they were placed on the body. Feathered shoes were surprisingly popular, cropping up at Erdem and David Koma, whilst trimmings on minidresses and tops also prevailed.

"If there's one thing we can expect from the runways it's a little drama. Sometimes this comes in magnificent oversized shapes, other times its bold shades, but this season it's all about feathers," says acting affiliate editor Florrie Alexander . "Adorning sleeves at Christian Siriano, dappled on hems at David Koma, and covering entire gowns at Louis Vuitton, the fluid flutterings of feathers added a soft edge to catwalks and an enticing movement that was expelled with each step. As we look to autumn/winter, there lies the dressier moments of the year, and by our account, feathering details are sure to be a key accent of the festivities."

14. BRING ON THE BELTS

Sometimes it's the smallest details that can make the biggest difference to a look, though small might not be the best way to describe this accessory spotlit in the autumn/winter collections. In fact, the impact they can have is anything but minute. "Belts are the perfect addition to our everyday capsule wardrobes and can elevate a look to new heights of extraordinary style. In the past six months, Net-a-Porter has seen a 550% increase in searches for the Khaite Benny Studded Leather Belt (£520), which is available in a selection of colours and styles," says Page.

"The A/W 2024 catwalks have spoken, and belts have officially entered the chat," observes Rhys-Evans . "Admittedly an often overlooked accessory, this season brings the opportunity to get your one-and-only belt some friends. Classic leather styles may be there to cinch in the waist (see Loewe and Dior) or perhaps low-slung on the hip as more of a style suggestion (Tibi and Tod’s)—the placement really is fluid. But the belts that really caught my eye? Those that were metallic. Particularly Chanel and Chloé, who elevated some cosy knitted two-pieces by layering a bold gold belt in the centre."

15. SATIN SPOTLIGHT

Fluid satins shimmered down the runways at Ferragamo, Giorgio Armani and Victoria Beckham, reminding us of all the opportunities to dress up that autumn/winter often brings. Modelled in everything from deep red hues to classic metallic tones, the swathes of fabric appeared in various silhouettes, from almost goddess-like draped dresses to power pyjamas and more. Even understated designs were elevated through the material's ability to catch the light, transforming simplicity into wonder.

"Ever looking for an excuse to style my favourite material, the season's divine take on satin dressing speaks to my soul," says Munro . "Transcending the confines of its typical "nice top" or jacket, luxurious satin suits, pyjama sets and, of course, dresses, speak to a growing preference for sleek styling and lavish living."

16. DOUBLE-DOSE DENIM

Denim has always been a fabric designers love to play with, especially in the cooler months, but autumn/winter's interpretation is bolder and more assertive than any in recent memory. "Fashion has come a long way since Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears' matching double denim looks at the 2001 American Music Awards, but it seems designers are ready for us to get back in the saddle," says Speed . "From Diesel and Vetements to Casablanca, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Ralph Lauren and Staud, the Texan tuxedo has been given a modern upgrade, just in time for us all to join Beyoncé in her Cowboy Carter era."

"Denim is always a nice feature to spot on a runway, as it's such an integral part of our daily wardrobes that it's easy to tap into the new ways to wear," adds Alexander . "This season? Make 'more is more' your mantra. Pairing double, and sometimes even treble, denim pieces in one was proven to be succinctly impactful on the catwalk as it will be on the street. What’s more, designers offered variety in this jean pairing, with combinations running from short-sleeved shirts and skirts at Dior, to tailored tops and trousers at Carolina Herrera. Structured iterations of the fabric graced Schiaparelli’s show, whilst Gabriela Hearst took a more languid approach with fluid trenchcoats and exaggerated hems."

17. BIG-CAT ENERGY

Some trends are harder to spot than others, requiring hours of research to get to the root and understand their impact on the wider fashion landscape. Leopard print , however, is not one of those trends. For autumn/winter 2024, designers practically screamed "Leopard print is back!" at the top of their lungs, with the print cropping up in so many collections, I could have filled this entire report with imagery of them. My favourite imaginings came in coat form—Christian Dior's belted trench now lives rent-free in my mind—whilst Zimmermann's billowing blouse and wide-leg jeans look presents a surefire way to stylishly wear the trend next season.

Leopard print's impact on the season ahead is so monumental that Tagwalk reports that there is 75% more leopard print in A/W 2024's collections compared to last year's. "It’s been a while since we’ve all been able to embrace our inner Kat Slater, but with the likes of Alaïa and Versace giving it their seal of approval, our feline instincts have officially reached their peak," says Wheatland-Clinch . "We’d already seen the fashion set go wild for leopard print during spring/summer with animal motifs taking over, well, everything, from denim and dresses. But next season, I can’t wait to see how this plays out in more pared-back outerwear shapes and knitted categories. It’s giving noughties Kate Moss and vintage Roberto Cavalli all mixed together with a little Eastenders —I love it."

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys . She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.

She might change yours, too.

By Natalie Munro

I can't keep this to myself.

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Politics latest: Tony Blair 'still involved' in Middle East; Rwanda scheme resurfaces in unexpected fashion

Former prime minister Sir Tony Blair has told Sky's Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge he's "still involved" in the Middle East, as he outlined his desire for a ceasefire in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

Thursday 5 September 2024 23:00, UK

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• MPs to get a vote on winter fuel payment cut
• Liz Bates: Government did not seem prepared for level of backlash
• Rwanda scheme resurfaces in unexpected fashion
• Plan to house asylum seekers at old RAF base scrapped
• Rayner 'not happy' with work to remove dangerous cladding
• Dominic Waghorn: PM may have useful partner in 'Brexit bogeyman'
• Live reporting by Tim Baker and (earlier) Faith Ridler

Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge highlights

• Watch: Tony Blair 'still involved' in Middle East
• Ex-PM 'worried' about rise of 'macho leaders'
• Sam Coates: Why Blair should be treated sceptically
• Watch Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  Monday-Thursday at 7pm

Explained: Our latest essential guides

• Who's running to be Tory leader
• Tax rises: What might go up | How council tax could change | What chancellor could do to pensions

It's 10pm and things are wrapping up for the night in Westminster.

Here's what you need to know before you head to bed:

• MPs will get to vote  on the government's proposed cut to who gets the  winter fuel payment ;
• It comes after weeks of pressure on the prime minister and chancellor, including from some Labour MPs, and focus will now turn to limiting a rebellion when the Commons votes  next Tuesday .
• Number 10 has vowed to "change the law" if building owners don't speed up the removal of unsafe cladding;
• But Sir Tony Blair told Sky News that tragedies like Grenfell cannot be completely stopped ;
• It comes in the wake of the Grenfell inquiry's final report , which yesterday blamed "systematic dishonesty" from cladding and insulation companies and "decades of failure" in government for the tragedy;
• Sir Tony also confirmed he was "still involved" in the Middle East - and gave some advice to Sir Keir Starmer on running a government ;
• But deputy political editor Sam Coates warned that some scepticism about Sir Tony's words was needed .
• The Home Office has scrapped a plan by Rishi Sunak's government to house asylum seekers at an old RAF base in Lincolnshire;
• RAF Scampton will now be sold off after it was decided the plan didn't represent "value for money" .

We're pausing our live coverage for tonight.

Thank you for joining us today.

The government has confirmed MPs will get a vote on plans to means test the winter fuel payment for pensioners.

One Labour rebel, Rachael Maskell, has written in The Daily Telegraph to lay out why she is opposed to the government's plan.

"The fear is that, if we withdraw winter fuel payments for those in fuel poverty, it will lead to excess deaths," she says.

Ms Maskell, who has been an MP since 2015 and served as a shadow minister under Jeremy Corbyn, added: "Those just above the pension credit threshold will end up worse off than those who qualify. 

"Without tapering, the cliff edge of pension credit is a blunt instrument for those who have worked hard and saved yet live on the poverty line."

Under the government's plans, only those on pension credit would be eligible for winter fuel payments.

With such a sizeable majority, it would take a rebellion of hundreds of Labour MPs to overturn the government's plan in next week's vote.

But a big pushback could force concessions in order to avoid embarrassment.

Is the Treasury to blame?

Earlier today, Ed Balls - who worked as an adviser to Gordon Brown when he was chancellor - laid the blame for the policy at the feet of the Treasury and its civil servants.

Speaking on the Political Currency podcast, he said: "I think [Chancellor Rachel Reeves] will have been given a list of things and told she has to do one of them, and I think she's probably, in retrospect, quite annoyed at the Treasury for pushing her into an immediate decision like this. 

"She may have felt, in retrospect, it was bad advice. 

"And she'll be acutely aware of the politics, because the reality is this isn't just a storm in a teacup."

By Faye Brown , political reporter

Hereditary peers will not be banned from re-joining the Lords as life peers under government reforms to the upper chamber.

Abolishing the 92 seats reserved for hereditary members was one of Labour's manifesto commitments.

But Baroness Smith of Basildon, the leader of the Lords, today confirmed there could be a route back for those individuals - as life peers.

"I can confirm that if members leave this House as hereditary peers, there is no block at all of them coming back as life peers if their party so wishes to introduce them," Baroness Smith said.

A life peer is nominated by the prime minister, though by convention the Leader of the Opposition and other party leaders can propose a certain number.

Traditionally, the title is awarded to individuals on retirement from important public office and allows them to be a member of the House of Lords for life.

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Former Labour MP Harriet Harman has called for the police to act "quicker" when it comes to their investigation into the Grenfell Tower fire.

The public inquiry into the west London blaze that saw 72 killed in 2017 delivered its final report on Wednesday.

It accused successive governments of "failing to act", despite knowing the risk of certain cladding and insulation, as well as criticising the "systematic dishonesty" of the firms behind the materials.

But speaking on Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction podcast , the Labour peer said the seven years the probe took was "too long" as she appealed for police to move faster with prosecutions.

"I'd be saying to the police, you've got to get on with your inquiry as quickly as possible," she said. "The idea that after seven years of a public inquiry, there's got to be another two years before they decide on prosecutions... you've got to crack on and do it quicker.

"Don't leave it till the end of 2026. People have waited long enough for that."

Listen to the latest episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast from 6am on Friday

By Paul Kelso , business correspondent

The chief executive of Thames Water has insisted he can rescue the debt-laden utility, which faces running out of cash in months if it cannot raise fresh equity.

Speaking after the environment secretary announced new legislation threatening water company bosses with jail alongside a review of the industry, Mr Weston told Sky News he was untroubled by the threat of prosecution, and confident he can turn around the troubled company.

"I need to digest what the secretary of state said today, I am completely aligned with what he's trying to do in cleaning up the rivers," he said.

"I'm focused, like he is, on getting investment and I will work with the secretary of state to do that. I am very encouraged by the tone I heard and I will work with him to try to do what he's outlined to do."

Asked directly if he could save Thames Water, he said: "I can save it."

With around £18bn of debt and cash reserves only until next May, Mr Weston is racing to raise fresh investment after existing shareholders withdrew plans for £3.5bn of fresh equity.

A topic of conversation on Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge tonight is a new law which will see stiffer penalties for water companies - and possible jail sentences for their bosses if they don't deal with sewage.

It's also the main topic on our latest Daily podcast.

Niall Paterson spoke to business correspondent Paul Kelso , who was there, for his assessment of what it could mean for the companies and bill payers.  

Plus, as police investigating the Grenfell Tower fire warn it could be at least a year until they hand over evidence to prosecutors, Niall speaks to Chris Daw KC, author of Justice On Trial, on why it is going to take so long for the survivors and bereaved families to get justice.

👉 Tap here to follow the Sky News Daily podcast – 20 minutes on the biggest stories every day 👈      

Deputy political editor Sam Coates has listened to tonight's interview with Sir Tony Blair twice now.

Speaking to Sophy Ridge , Sam thinks he may have spotted a warning for the current Labour prime minister from his political predecessor.

Sam highlights a section where Sophy asked the New Labour architect about whether Sir Keir Starmer was radical enough.

Sam points out Sir Tony "compared his government and Keir's government" and claimed the 1997 administration had a series of easy wins with things like independence of the Bank of England, changing the rules on gay rights, and introducing the mayor of London.

Sir Tony then compared these to Sir Keir's "missions", Sam says, and that success will depend on those missions.

Sam goes on: "That's not an endorsement - each one of those things that [Sir Tony] did was a political risk, a huge political risk that he pushed through and got political credit for. 

"And he's admitting that Keir Starmer doesn't have that kind of ambitious agenda.

"And he's saying, well, the missions will work if they work."

'A little bit of narcissism'

On a broader point, Sam says Sir Tony was advertising a "style" of government - building a good team - and then "telling Keir Starmer that's the model".

But our deputy political editor urged some scepticism, saying Sir Tony seemed to be advertising his institute that "sells help with governance to friendly - and other - governments all around the world".

"There was a little bit of, dare I say, narcissism in what we saw from Tony Blair today - because what he did was sit there and go: I know best, I'll tell you for a fee," Sam concludes.

For many, prime minister Sir Tony Blair's legacy is defined by his foreign policy decisions regarding the Middle East - most notably the Iraq war.

And he tells Sophy Ridge he's "still involved" in "quite a lot" regarding what's happening in the region now.

He was asked for his thoughts on Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu, who has found himself under increasing pressure from Western allies to do a ceasefire deal with Hamas.

Sir Tony wouldn't comment on "individual leaders" as "that wouldn't be very helpful to what I'm doing".

Without elaborating on what his role is, the former Labour leader says: "The most important thing is that we get a ceasefire that's sustainable and that we find a path back to some concept of security for the Israelis and self-determination for the Palestinians."

Speaking to tonight's  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge , former prime minister Sir Tony Blair is asked about an increase of "strong man" or "macho" leaders.

Sir Tony says he is "worried" about the trend - and that it's important to understand why it's happening.

The former leader - who famously proposed a "third way" of UK politics and advocated a centrist position - said the reason for the increase was the lack of a "strong centre that's delivering".

But he defends the centre as not "the mushy middle between left and right", but rather "the place of solutions".

Sir Tony claims politics and political allegiances have become "more fractured" - and this will only continue as technology develops, reducing voters' traditional loyalties to certain parties.

'Solutions beat strongmen'

He says: "The other thing that's going to happen is that people are, if there are grievances, they are going to expect you to deal with them. 

"And the centre has got to be the place that you deal with them."

Sir Tony says it is no good to just say various groups are "extreme" and try to manage the problem that way.

"If you want to defeat this sort of strongman populism, they're defeated by the solutions," he says.

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