As the nights draw in and everywhere gets a little cooler and a little darker, our instinct is to hunker down and hibernate until spring. However, autumn is one of the best times to explore. The low levels of crowds, the changing colours, and the crisp temperatures are perfect for aimless meandering around various cities. So, without further ado, here are my best places for autumn getaways in the UK.
Note: These are my picks based on places that I’ve actually been in the autumnal months. I know there are plenty of foliage-heavy places that could also been on this list, but as always, the articles on this blog are based on my own experiences.
Edinburgh
The Scottish capital is one of the best places for an autumn getaway in the UK because of the moody vibe of the city. While the Scottish summers aren’t always cracking, Edinburgh evokes a misty romanticism in the autumn. The morning fog, the grey clouds, and the patches of red and orange in the foliage feels right for this historic place.
Of course, wandering around the Old Town is a must-do. Head down rogue alleyways, investigate side streets and stairs, and explore the nooks and crannies of one of the best cities in the UK. If the weather’s dry, head up to Arthur’s Seat and see the beauty of the city from the top.
When you’ve had your fill, head to one of the many cosy bookshops for a browse, before journeying to a pub or bar for a warming drink. While whisky would be traditional, there are an incredible number of excellent wine bars to check out which work just as well.
Tip: There’s usually the Autumn Internationals on at Murrayfield during October and November. If you’re into rugby or just want to check out a sporty vibe, the tickets are very reasonably priced for top-tier rugby.
The best places stay in Edinburgh
The Peak District
Having grown up in Staffordshire, lived in Manchester, and current living in Liverpool, the Peak District is always one of my favourite places to visit in Autumn. This expansive national park spans Derbyshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, and Yorkshire and is home to some of the best hiking and rock climbing in the country.
The cooler days mean that it’s a lot nicer to hike along the more incline-heavy trails, and there are way fewer crowds than in the summer months. One of the best things about the Peak District is that it’s really easy to get there by public transport – I’ve written a complete guide about it!
The browns and oranges of The Roaches or the sweeping views of the Hope Valley come alive in Autumn. Of course, with the sheer number of independent walkers pubs in the Peaks, there’s always a great opportunity to stop for a roast lunch and a pint after a long hike.
The best places stay in The Peak District
The Lake District
In the summer, the Lake District is one of the most popular places in England. However, in the autumn, many of the crowds disappear. This is absolutely the time to visit. Don’t be put off by the rainy spells – they only make the waterfalls more full and fantastic!
Much like the Peak District, you can also reach the Lake District by public transport (the guide is here). This makes it ideal for a weekend away. Between cosy inns and charming towns filled with outdoorsy shops, it’s a cool way to spend a few days in the autumn. Of course, the trails become moody and the grey reflections spark off the namesake lakes – it’s a beautiful time to visit.
The best places stay in The Lake District
Eryri (Snowdonia)
I will never not love exploring Eryri, otherwise known in English as Snowdonia. Having gone to university on the edge of the national park, exploring in the autumn evokes the start of the year and embracing the great outdoors before the deadlines start to pile up.
Nowadays, hiking and climbing in the park is a great autumn activity. In the summer holidays, I try to avoid Llanberis due to the popularity of Snowdon with families, but in autumn, it’s a lot easier to find parking and enjoy the trails around this gorgeous part of North Wales.
Again, you can reach Eryri by public transport (guide here), and get between the different hiking hotspots, like Llanberis, Betws-y-coed, and Bethesda without a car. This is ideal for point-to-point hikes, or if you want to have a rewarding post-adventure pint in one of the many rambling pubs in the area.
The best places stay in Eryri (Snowdonia)
Newborough, Anglesey
Just a short hop from Eryri lies the island of Anglesey. Known as Ynys Mon in Welsh, it’s a historic and sacred place that used to be a hub for Celtic Druids back in ancient times. It definitely has a magic to it that’s best experienced in autumn with the cooler days, Halloween on the horizon, and the more moody vibes.
While Newborough is popular in the summer, due its amazing beaches and campsites, visiting in the autumn is perfect for windy walks along the sands, and exploring the trails through Newborough Forest. Personally, I love a beach in autumn or winter. The water isn’t too cold and there’s a more wild nature to the windswept atmosphere.
The best places stay in Newborough, Anglesey
Croyde, Devon
Throughout my childhood, my sister and I would constantly ask when we were going back to Croyde. This iconic surf spot in North Devon may not have the name recognition of Woolacombe, just around the headland, but in my opinion, it’s infinitely better.
The waves in the UK get better in the autumn and winter when the Atlantic waves roll in. If you don’t fancy a winter dip, autumn is the next best time to visit for great waves. Book on a lesson with Surf South West Croyde and warm up with a pint and a huge delicious dinner in The Thatch in Croyde village.
Everything here is walkable, which is part of the charm. There are antique stores, jazz cafes, surf clothing shops, and trails that zigzag along the coast. With autumn being the shoulder season, it’s a lot quieter, making it an ideal time to visit.
The best places stay in Croyde, Devon
Chester
Being based in Liverpool, Chester is just a short drive or train ride away. With the Roman walls, the amazing Tudor-style architecture and rows of cool shops and restaurants, it’s an awesome place to wander around in the autumn.
With the two levels to the main area; street level and row level, it takes you back in time and makes it easy to avoid any unfavourable weather changes. You can check our the riverfront on a steamer boat or you can visit the impressive Chester Cathedral. There is usually something going on from markets to races to high-quality buskers along the main gateway streets.
Autumn getaways in the UK have been top of my bucket list lately, so this roundup feels like a total lifesaver! I’m already jotting down spots like the Lake District—love that you highlighted cozy, lesser-crowded picks perfect for crisp fall days. Thanks for sharing such actionable, inspiring ideas!