The North American trend of travelling to view and photograph the changing leaves is firmly taking root on this side of the Atlantic. New research reveals that almost three-quarters (73%) of Brits are planning a seasonal escape this year to soak up the beauty of the shifting seasons.
In fact, Britain’s love of autumn travel is growing so rapidly that it has overtaken every other season to become the nation’s favourite time for a UK staycation (35%).
Forget chasing the last of the summer sun; it seems we are a nation in love with our own spectacular landscapes. Over half of adults (58%) say they would rather experience autumn right here in the UK than travel abroad, with a resounding four in five (82%) believing that the UK boasts some of the world’s most beautiful autumn colours and scenery. Enjoying this scenery tops the list of reasons for taking an autumn escape (48%), closely followed by the chance to enjoy brisk countryside walks (38%), fewer crowds (31%) and better hotel prices compared to peak summer (24%).
Interestingly, there is a growing appetite for exploring beyond the traditional tourist trail. More than four in ten Brits (43%) would rather discover a lesser-known destination than visit a bustling hotspot, making autumn a booming season for regional tourism.
To help you plan the ultimate seasonal getaway, we asked the nation to vote for the UK’s top destinations for autumnal scenery.
Britain’s top 10 UK autumnal beauty spots
1. Bolderwood, New Forest in Hampshire (38%)
Taking the crown as Britain’s favourite autumn destination is Bolderwood in the heart of the New Forest. This enchanting area is famed for its winding woodland trails lined with sweet chestnut, oak and beech trees that erupt into vibrant shades of red, orange and gold each autumn.
Beyond the spectacular canopy of leaves, Bolderwood is also home to a purpose-built deer viewing platform, offering visitors the perfect chance to spot herds of fallow deer against a breathtaking autumnal backdrop.
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2. Loch an Eilein, Scottish Highlands (32%)
Securing second place is the magical Loch an Eilein, tucked away in the Rothiemurchus Forest. As temperatures drop, the ancient pine and birch trees around the loch turn into a sea of golden foliage, creating a striking contrast against the dark, still waters.
At the heart of the loch sit the ruins of a picturesque 13th-century island castle. Walking the three-mile loop around the water’s edge on a crisp autumn morning is a truly atmospheric experience you won’t easily forget.
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3. Allen Banks, Northumberland (26%)
Renowned for its dramatic riverside woodland walks, Allen Banks is a Victorian garden wilderness that truly comes alive in the autumn. The deep gorge, carved by the River Allen, is enveloped by extensive ancient woodland.
As the leaves turn, the canopy creates a fiery tunnel of copper and bronze. It’s a fantastic spot to spot local wildlife and capture the season’s essence away from the crowds.
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4. Coed y Brenin, Eryri / Snowdonia (=21%)
Tied for fourth place is Coed y Brenin in North Wales. While famous for its world-class mountain biking, its crisp mountain forest trails make it a walker’s paradise in autumn.
The forest showcases a dramatic display as the deciduous trees turn bright gold and amber, standing out beautifully against the evergreen pines. Add in the rushing waterfalls and the misty mountain air, and you have an idyllic Welsh autumn escape.
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5. Sheffield Park & Garden, East Sussex (=21%)
Sharing the fourth spot is the magnificent Sheffield Park & Garden. Designed by Capability Brown, this historic estate was practically planted for autumn impact.
The garden is world-renowned for its fiery display of Acers and Nyssas, which burn with intense reds, purples and oranges. The true magic happens when these brilliant hues are perfectly reflected in the calm waters of the estate’s historic, interconnected lakes.
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6. Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands (20%)
Often described as the most beautiful glen in Scotland, Glen Affric is a stunning mix of shimmering lochs, rugged mountains and one of the largest surviving remnants of the ancient Caledonian pinewoods.
In autumn, the golden and russet tones of the turning birch and rowan trees weave through the deep greens of the Scots pines, creating a rich, textured landscape that is a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike.
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7. Lanhydrock Estate, Cornwall (18%)
While Cornwall is often associated with summer beach holidays, the late-Victorian Lanhydrock Estate proves it is just as spectacular in autumn. The estate is surrounded by extensive wooded grounds that hug the River Fowey.
Take a stroll along the network of woodland paths to discover a canopy of ancient oaks and beeches shedding their copper leaves, offering a peaceful and colourful retreat before heading into the historic house.
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8. Loughrigg Tarn and Elterwater, Cumbria (=17%)
The Lake District never fails to impress, and the serene spots of Loughrigg Tarn and Elterwater capture the essence of a Cumbrian autumn perfectly.
The calm, glass-like waters act as a mirror for the fiery bracken and turning leaves of the surrounding fells, with the majestic Langdale Pikes looming in the background. It is the ultimate spot for a peaceful countryside walk followed by a warm drink in a local village pub.
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9. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire (=17%)
The legendary home of Robin Hood is steeped in history and natural beauty. Sherwood Forest is home to hundreds of ancient oaks—including the famous Major Oak—which drop their acorns and turn gorgeous shades of gold and amber as the year winds down.
Wandering through this ancient woodland on a crisp, misty morning feels like stepping back in time, making it a magical autumnal experience for families and solo explorers alike.
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10. Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire (16%)
Rounding out the top 10 is Westonbirt, the National Arboretum. This is perhaps one of the most famous autumnal locations in the whole of the UK.
Home to thousands of tree species from across the globe, Westonbirt puts on an unparalleled, internationally recognised autumn display. The maples, in particular, provide an explosion of crimson, magenta, and fiery orange that you simply have to see to believe.
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