As the red, yellow and gold hues trickle across the country, the autumn season is almost upon us! 🍂
And for many of us, autumn is the best time of year for getting outdoors and exploring scenic UK spots. As the vibrant autumn colours spread across the countryside, make sure you get out and about to witness the flourishing season first-hand!
To help plan your next autumn getaway, we’ve rounded up the best destinations to admire the UK’s autumn leaves.
Grizedale Forest – Cumbria
Grizedale Forest, located in the heart of the Lake District, transforms into a stunning shade of orange throughout autumn. Surrounded by vast mountains, crystal blue lakes and towering trees, this area of the Lake District truly is the perfect place for walks, bike rides and enjoying the scenic views.
From ancient trees to peaceful valleys and slippery streams, this gorgeous scenic spot in Cumbria will be sure to give you your autumnal fix.
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St James’s Park – London
St James’s Park is a beautiful royal park that comes alive with autumnal hues. Imagine strolling along its tree-lined paths, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of autumnal hues. The park’s iconic lake, home to ducks and geese, reflects the vibrant autumn foliage, creating a serene and picturesque scene.
As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter historic landmarks like the Horse Guards Parade and the Birdcage Walk. Plus, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the park’s resident pelicans, a tradition dating back to the 17th century. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or simply want to admire the beauty of autumn in London, St James’s Park offers a truly unforgettable autumnal experience.
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Mar Lodge Estate – Aberdeenshire
Located in the heart of the Cairngorms mountain range, this exquisite nature reserve is a great scenic destination to admire the autumn leaves and tranquil landscape. As Scotland’s largest nature reserve, consisting of 4 out of 5 of the highest mountains in the UK, there is plenty to do and experience for those keen adventurers among you.
With sensual lochs, bronze-toned forests and a thoughtful effort to conserve local seasonable wildlife, experience the beauty of this nature reserve at the peak of autumn.
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Stourhead – Wiltshire
Sprinkled with rare trees, historical structures and unique follies, Stourhead in Wiltshire is a grand, ancient landscape, perfect for any keen nature lover looking to spot signs and colours of autumn.
As well as spectacular views of the UK’s natural beauty, Stourhead is also home to its very own temple! Inspired by the Pantheon temple in Rome, the Stourhead Pantheon was added to the Stourhead estate in 1754. While you’re out and about, why not take a visit to the Palladian mansion house hidden within the woodland of the estate?
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Coombe Hill – Buckinghamshire
Perched 260m above sea level, amongst the Chiltern Hills, sits Coombe Hill, the highest viewpoint in the chalk hill range. From Coombe Hill’s idyllic monument, you’ll get a sensational view of the vivid, orange trees of the neighbouring Wendover Woods and, on a clear day, can even spot the Cotswolds.
Once you’ve taken in this autumnal masterpiece, wander down one of their numerous local walking trails, weaving through the beech trees and the moss-covered low woodlands at the bottom of the hill.
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RHS Garden Wisley – Surrey
Discover a beautiful arboretum garden this autumn and enjoy the satisfying crunch of fallen leaves under your shoes. With plenty of diverse plants and greenery hiding throughout the golden orange trees and shrubs, a visit in autumn makes for a gorgeous experience for fall lovers.
Once you’ve explored the surrounding areas, why not check out Seven Acres or Oakwood, two spots ideal for seeing those classic autumn colours?
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Brecon Beacons – Carmarthenshire, Powys & Monmouthshire
From breathtaking mountain peaks to serene and secluded waterfalls. Brecon Beacons is a wondrous UK destination to add to your autumn bucket list.
Straddling three Welsh counties, Brecon Beacons boast spectacular walking routes, cycling trails and scenic spots that flourish in autumn. Embrace the stunning autumn leaves and explore one of Wales’ natural crown jewels!
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Little Venice – London
When we think of Britain’s natural beauty, we often only think of countryside locations. However, the UK’s cities can’t be ignored for their blossoming autumn hues throughout September, October and November. And London is no exception!
Little Venice’s affluent riverside location in West London makes for an exquisite autumnal walk, where you’ll marvel at the colourful trees and crunch over orange autumn leaves, all while spotting some of London’s famous landmarks.
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