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Top Short Autumn Breaks & Weekend Getaways in the UK
Crisp days, misty mornings and kicking up the leaves surrounded by a glorious explosion of colour means it’s autumn, the perfect time for a holiday or short break. The kids are back in school, the crowds have gone and the weather has yet to turn wintry.
In our autumn travel guide, we share travel tips and highlights for our top places for autumn colour and adventure in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re looking for weekend breaks, autumn holiday ideas, city breaks or want to visit some of Great Britain’s national parks and glorious landscapes, you’re in the right place!
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;
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.
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!
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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.
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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Other Things to Do Nearby
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!
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 day 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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
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Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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!
The New Forest, Hampshire, England
Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders
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!
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Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
Elan Valley, Powys, Wales
Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders
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!
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Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
North York Moors, Yorkshire
Explored by Phil & Izzy of The Gap Decaders
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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Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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!
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.
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Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
Other Things to Do Nearby
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.
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.
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Other Things to Do Nearby
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!
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