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23 of the Best Destinations to Enjoy England in Autumn

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Windsor Castle in England glimpsed between Autumn trees in a park with brown leaves scattered on the grass between the two rows of trees and the stone castle visible between both rows in the distance.

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 national parks, made even 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 festivals to glorious landscapes for hiking and adventure… there’s plenty to keep you busy this season!

Best England Autumn Destinations

In a hurry? There’s a map and a short version of this list at the bottom of this page.

RELATED POST: Autumn Packing List for England

Dorset National Landscape

The Dorset National Landscape (formerly AONB) is simply spectacular in autumn. Few other regions can boast quite such an amazing range of landscapes.

Kimmeridge Bay in Dorset with a small stone circular tower on top of a low grassy headland above a small shingle and rocky beach. The tower and headland are perfectly reflected in the water in the way.
Kimmeridge Bay Dorset

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, enjoy the autumn colours of Dorset’s stunning countryside. Puddletown Forest, near Dorchester, or Corfe Castle and the rolling hills of Purbeck are great choices!

The New Forest

Recommended by: Mal, Raw Mal Roams 

Low Autumn sunlight streaming through the yellow and orange leaves of trees in the New Forest with the ground covered in reddish brown leaves and brown ferns

The New Forest is a National Park in Hampshire, south England. It’s a great destination year-round, but visiting in Autumn can be particularly rewarding.

There are vast areas of gorgeous heathlands which turn pink and purple in September, creating a beautiful contrast with the green pastures. The park has hundreds of walking and cycling trails for every level, a great way to enjoy the red and golden colours of the trees. When it gets cold, head to Lymington to warm up with a hearty roast dinner in one of the traditional pubs.

North Coast of Cornwall

Recommended by: Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Looking across a section of the North Cornwall Coast in England in Autumn with the sea a very dark greyish blue and the sky overcast. There is a small, rocky cliff with jagged grey rocks at the bottom. there are two small stone buildings, partly ruined and without roofs, on the sloping edge of the cliff over the sea.

In autumn, Cornwall becomes a serene and calm place. After the bustle of the summer months, the north coast is peaceful – and perfect for adventure! Tourist spots like Tintagel Castle, Geevor Tin Mine and Land’s End are usually much less busy outside of summer, meaning a more pleasant experience where you can take your time to explore.

The surf beaches in Bude and Newquay are quieter, but the waves stay as good as they are in summer, if not better! Autumn’s blustery weather makes clifftop walks invigorating: watch waves crash against the cliff faces and break over the harbour walls.

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

Westonbirt Arboretum, Cotswolds

Recommended by: Cath – Travel Around Ireland

Delicate Acer trees with bright red leaves in westonbirt arboretum in the cotswolds england in autumn with some yellow trees out of focus behind and the floor covered with red and yellow leaves

The Cotswolds AONB is a beautiful place to visit in Autumn. Abundant woodlands and forests invite you to wander and enjoy the colourful leaves. Rivers meander alongside splashes of yellow, orange, red and brown.

Visit Westonbirt Arboretum, near the picturesque town of Tetbury, for a delightful display of autumn colours from late September to early November. In the Old Arboretum, there are oaks, horse chestnuts and acers, while over in the Silk Road area you can see trees, shrubs, and plants from around the world. Make sure to visit the Maple Loop to see the stunning Japanese Acers.

Hadrian’s Wall Country

Recommended by: Monique at tripanthropologist.com

Section of Hadrians Wall in England taken at sunset in autumn. there are parts of an old ruined wall visible running uphill with a wide grassy valley beyond and the sun setting over the hill on the far side with a small woodland silhouetted against the orange sky.

Hadrian’s Wall stretches for 73 miles (or 80 Roman miles) across northern England from Bowness-on-Solway on the west coast to Wallsend in the east. Built as the most northern outpost of Roman Britannia, it’s an ancient wall, and the surrounding area, known as Hadrian’s Wall Country, is a joy in autumn.

The moors turn golden, and the hordes of hikers are much reduced from their peak summer numbers. It’s hard to explain the remote feeling in the Scottish borderlands: just you, the wind, the sheep, and the ancient stones. Cycle or take one of the many Hadrian’s Wall walks to soak up the scenery, and explore forts along the Wall, such as Housesteads and Birdoswald.

Peak District

Recommended by: Jenny, Peak District Kids

close up of a highland cow with very long, reddish brown fur and long horns. the cow is standing on a grassy hilltop beside some heather looking at the camera with the green hills of the Peak District behind.

The Peak District is a beautiful destination year-round, with green rolling meadows and dramatic escarpments. But in autumn, the heather moors and woodlands turn rusty, and the morning chill brings impressive cloud inversions in the valleys.

On those crisp blue-sky days, nothing beats a long walk in the hills or along an escarpment to take in 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).

Matlock Bath

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

View of Matlock Bath town with stone cottages on a forested hillside

Matlock Bath is a beautiful Derbyshire town with a unique autumn festival. From mid-September 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. A fantastic illuminated model boat parade also takes place along the River Derwent. To this day, the parade still features one ‘candle-lit’ boat in the traditional Victorian style.

INFO: The boat parade and shows are open every weekend from 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. It can get very busy, especially on Saturdays, so we recommend booking tickets in advance.

Bristol

Recommended by: Nichola, Globalmouse Travels

Looking down at Clifton Suspension Bridge above the River Avon in Bristol, the bridge has a stone tower on either side with long grey metal cables between each one holding up the bridge. the banks fo the river are covered with a dense forest with green and golden leaves.

With its delightful walks, iconic skyline, and tree-lined boulevards, Bristol is an excellent autumn destination. Start your visit by exploring Clifton Village’s Georgian streets. Stroll across the world-famous Suspension Bridge, then grab a bite at the tranquil Clifton Lido.

Head into the city centre and pass Banksy’s unmistakable art on Park Street. If you’re looking for things to do in Bristol with kids, pop into We the Curious; this interactive, hands-on science museum is perfect for rainy days.

Oxford

Recommended by: Rose, Where Rose Goes

The circular building of Radcliffe Camera in Oxford England built from beige coloured stone and decorated with many pillars, with a domed grey roof, taken in Autumn

Oxford is a lovely destination to visit any time of year. However, the red leaves against the golden stone are particularly picturesque in autumn. Whether you’re visiting as a day trip or spending a weekend in Oxford, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Most of Oxford’s main attractions are conveniently close together, so it’s easy to nip between them even in bad weather!

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

London

Recommended by: Dymphe, Dymabroad

Big Ben, River Thames and the Houses of Parliament framed by orange autumn leaves in the foreground

London is a great city to discover at any time of year – but Autumn is one of the best! Kynance Mews is one of the best places to enjoy autumn colours. This pretty street has a stunning entrance gate covered in red leaves; easily one of London’s best photo spots.

London’s parks and gardens are great places for autumn colours: try Hyde Park or Kew Gardens. Or if you need to shelter from the bad weather, there’s no shortage of museums, theatres, and covered markets to explore. And, of course, the biggest selling point is that London is usually much quieter at this time of year, so you can enjoy the major attractions without the crowds!

Forest of Dean

Recommended by: Richard, RJ on Tour

Sunlight lens flare through mist and pine trees in the Royal Forest of Dean
Winter morning light in the Royal Forest of Dean near Coalway, Gloucestershire UK

Located in western Gloucestershire, the stunning ancient woodland of the Forest of Dean is a must-visit. It covers 100 square kilometres of mixed woodland, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Autumn is special in the Forest of Dean due to the fantastic colours of the trees. It’s also a great time to spot wildlife as creatures busy themselves preparing for winter.

York

Recommended by: Maja, Away with Maja

Morning golden light on the historic old town of York along Museum St. looking towards York Minster Cathedral.

York is a fantastic destination year-round. In autumn, the red and gold leaves add a splash of colour as you explore the City Walls or stroll through Museum Gardens. It’s also a great place for Halloween: sometimes called the “Most Haunted City in Europe”! Take a ghost tour ot visit the York Dungeons to make the most of the spooky season.

Several fantastic festivals also take place in York during this time of year. The York Food and Drink Festival brings together some of the area’s best foodie experiences. The York Beer and Cider Festival takes place over a September weekend at the racecourse. And there’s the York Balloon Fiesta; a completely free multi-day festival held in autumn.

READ MORE: A Local’s Guide to York

Stratford-upon-Avon

Recommended by: Michele, The Intrepid Guide

A lady with very curly brown hair wearing blue jeans and a bright green vest top with a ruched detail across the front, sitting in a wooden seat inside a circular wicker structure, with a thatched roof cottage with cream half timbered walls behind in Stratford-upon-Avon

In Stratford-upon-Avon, you can literally walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps: where he was born, educated, and lived, right through to his final resting place. Autumn is the perfect time to visit: the crowds have died down, and 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. Also visit Shakespeare’s New Place and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage for their picturesque gardens. To complete the experience, see one of Shakespeare’s plays, which are regularly performed at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

RELATED POST: Most Romantic Places in Britain

Grizedale Forest 

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

Looking up towards the tops of trees in Grizedale Forest, the trees are mostly very tall pine trees with green needles in bunches at the top against a cloudy sky with patches of blue. There are some smaller bare trees behind them with twisted branches.

The sight of leaves changing colour, the shining golds and browns cloaking the ground, and the smell of fresh air; there’s something about autumn that makes everything magical. Grizedale Forest in the Lake District is no different. The forest is made up of hills, small tarns, and tall trees.

The well-marked walking trails vary in both difficulty and length, from 1.5km to 16km. Some are dotted with sculptures by leading contemporary artists. Strenuous walks take you to the highest point with spectacular 360-degree views. I recommend the Carron Crag and Tarn walks.

Windermere

Recommended by: Kenny, Knycx Journeying 

Landscape in the Lake District in England in Autumn, taken from a high spot looking down across a forest of reddish and green trees towards a large blue lake surrounded by low green hills on a sunny day with mostly clear blue sky.

England’s Lake District has long been a popular destination for those looking to get away from it all, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, is usually crowded in summer, but it quiets down significantly in autumn.

Hop on a sightseeing cruise to Ambleside, hike up to Hill Top, or take a scenic train ride on Lakeside’s Haverthwaite Railway. All of it will be set against incredible foliage that’s hard to forget. 

South Downs Way

Recommended by: Claire, Stoked to Travel

Landscape with a hill covered in trees at autumn and rolling green valleys beyond

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, historic market town of Lewes before winding 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.

Don’t Miss: Stop by the beautiful orchard at Alfriston Clergy House to pick one of the English apple varieties grown here. Or why not take home a pumpkin from their annual crop?

Marlow, Buckinghamshire

Recommended by: Darek and Gosia

Man rowing a thin grey rowboat along the river in Marlow buckinghamshire near some swans. there are two large red brick houses on the far bank and a small white boat parked at the edge of the river.

Marlow in Buckinghamshire is a beautiful town, perfect for exploring on a sunny autumn day! From walking alongside the River Thames to visiting Marlow Locks – there is so much to see in this little town. Midsomer Murders fans will definitely recognise spots from many episodes of the crime drama, including the iconic Two Brewers pub.

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 gives you a different perspective on the town.

Lincoln

Recommended by: Emily, London City Calling

a blonde lady wearing a blue shirt, dark blue jeans, and knee high light brown boots with a black leather backpack and a felt hat on walking towards a large stone castle with several turrets. the facade is covered in green and red ivy and the sky is blue.

Lincoln is a small English city in the East Midlands known for its striking medieval Cathedral, an impressive castle, and many narrow cobblestone streets. The charming city looks beautiful shrouded in autumnal colours, and there’s plenty to do in Lincoln, both indoors and out.

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. If the rain does hit, there are plenty of cute cafes and cosy pubs around. So you can step inside for a drink while you wait for the weather to pass.

Windsor

Recommended by: Joanna, The World in My Pocket

People walking along the stone path leading towards Windsor Castle in England with Autumn coloured trees in rows on either side and neatly mowed grass lining the path. The sky overhead is overcast and grey.

Windsor is a great destination if you’re passionate about the Royal family. During autumn, it becomes even more charming, thanks to the beautiful 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 3km avenue connects Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse Statue of King Charles II on his horse. Mostly unchanged since the 11th century, when it was a hunting ground, the Long Walk is divided between Windsor Park and the Deer Park, which is home to around 200 red deer. These are well-accustomed to people and easy to spot among the yellow leaves of the hundred-year-old oak trees.

Bourton-on-the-water, Cotswolds

Recommended by: Anu, Country Hopping Couple

Stone path next to the river in Bourton on the Water Cotswolds. The path is covered with orange leaves that have fallen from the trees above which are nearly bare.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a classic Cotswold village, also known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its picturesque stone bridges and gently flowing River Windrush. On a crisp autumn day, take a stroll along the river and admire the quaint limestone houses. Or stop by at one of their famous tea rooms.

Plenty of walking trails and hikes nearby let you enjoy the autumn colours of the countryside. Perhaps take the route from Upper Slaughter via Lower Slaughter, following the River Eye. Alternatively, you can visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum or Model Village, a miniature version of Bourton-on-the-Water.

READ MORE: Cotswolds Driving Itinerary

Whitby

Recommended by: Amy, The Travel Fairies

Ruins of Whitby Abbbey at sunset, a stone wall with tall arched windows in it with the setting sun flaring through one of the windows. The abbey is on a grassy clifftop with a misty bay beyond and a low headland beyond that with clear blue and yellow sky overhead. Best Places to Visit in the North of England

Whitby is a small coastal town in Yorkshire, dominated by the ruined Whitby Abbey and famous for it’s association with Dracula. A visit to Whitby not only inspired Bram Stoker’s book, but it’s also a setting in the story itself. Visit around Halloween for ghost walks, Paranormal Nights, and Dracula experiences. The Abbey is also illuminated, making 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 changing colours, and you can even spot whales off the coast before they migrate to warmer climates.

Cambridge

Recommended by: Diana, Travels in Poland

A row of wooden rowing boats in the river in Cambridge in Autumn with trees on either side of the river and an orange canalboat on the far side with a row of red brich terraced houses visible through the trees behind that.

With its beautiful chapels, historic universities, stunning botanical garden and cosy vibes, Cambridge is at its best in autumn. Visiting King’s College Chapel or St. John’s College takes you to some fantastic grounds, and if the weather permits, you can even indulge in some season-end punting.

Some of the most beautiful fall foliage is at the Cambridge University Botanical Garden. Spanning over 16 hectares, visitors can spend hours wandering the trails, visiting the humid interior greenhouses, or simply enjoying a picnic on the grounds.

Bath

Recommended by: Me!

Emily wearing a khaki green parka with a fur lined hood with her long blonde hair down leaning against a low stone wall and looking out at Pulteney Bridge in Bath, a covered stone bridge lined with the backs of a terraced row of shops. Weekend in Bath.

Bath is particularly beautiful in autumn, with the city centre’s honey-coloured stone set against 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, it is a spa town, so there are 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

Autumn in England: the Quicklist

  1. Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
  2. The New Forest, Hampshire
  3. North Coast of Cornwall
  4. Westonbirt Arboretum, Cotswolds
  5. Hadrian’s Wall Country
  6. Peak District
  7. Matlock Bath
  8. Bristol
  9. Oxford
  10. London
  11. Forest of Dean
  12. York
  13. Stratford-Upon-Avon
  14. Grizedale Forest
  15. Windermere
  16. South Downs Way
  17. Marlow, Buckinghamshire
  18. Lincoln
  19. Windsor
  20. Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswolds
  21. Whitby
  22. Cambridge
  23. Bath

Any other great places to visit in England in autumn? Scroll down to share your favourites in the comments!

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

  1. Gannon Zayn
    Reply

    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.

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