{"id":37354,"date":"2026-08-17T09:00:42","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T08:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/?p=37354"},"modified":"2026-08-17T11:53:31","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T10:53:31","slug":"things-to-do-in-september","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/things-to-do\/things-to-do-in-september\/","title":{"rendered":"16 things to do in the UK in September 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Goodbye August. Hello September \ud83d\udc4b<\/h2>\n

As we bid farewell to those lazy summer days, let\u2019s gear up for an exciting month of activities and things to do in the UK in September. We\u2019ve got you covered with the finest list of things to do to ease you into autumn.<\/h4>\n

Get ready to dive into fascinating activities, vibrant festivals and unforgettable experiences that will make your September epic!<\/h4>\n
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1. Blackpool Illuminations Switch On<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
4th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"BlackpoolGet ready for some September sparkle! There\u2019s nothing quite like the electric atmosphere of the Blackpool Illuminations Switch-On. This seaside resort\u2019s famous promenade transforms into a buzzing festival of anticipation this September and believe us when we say it\u2019s the ultimate end-of-summer party.<\/h4>\n

The absolute highlight, of course, is the big countdown. Watch as the entire coastline erupts in a truly beautiful display of over a million glowing bulbs. Those six miles of shimmering lights officially kick off the autumn season, transforming a dark seaside night into a wonderland of colour and nostalgia that you truly have to see in person to appreciate.<\/h4>\n

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2. The Jane Austen Festival<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
11th – 20th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"PrideIf you\u2019ve ever dreamt of stepping straight into the pages of Pride and Prejudice, the Jane Austen Festival in Bath is exactly where you need to be this September. Taking place in the beautifully preserved Georgian city that Austen herself once called home, this ten-day celebration is an absolute delight for fans of her work.<\/h4>\n

And the highlight is the spectacular Grand Regency Costumed Promenade, where hundreds of people take to the cobbled streets in their absolute finest Empire-waist gowns, tailored tailcoats and elaborate bonnets. It\u2019s truly a sight to behold, transforming the city into a vibrant, living tribute to the early 19th century.<\/h4>\n

Beyond the fabulous fashion, the festival is packed with activities that let you fully immerse yourself in Austen\u2019s world. You can spend your days enjoying theatrical performances, guided walking tours and fascinating talks. Then dance the night away at a spectacular Regency ball. Whether you\u2019re a die-hard \u2018Janeite\u2019 or just someone who appreciates a good book and a beautiful historical setting, the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming.<\/h4>\n

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3. London Design Festival<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
12th – 20th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"LondonIf you’re in London this September, the London Design Festival is the ultimate celebration of creativity and innovation. From the 12th to the 20th September, England’s capital transforms into a buzzing showcase of design, with incredible installations, exhibitions and events spread across areas like Shoreditch, Clerkenwell, Greenwich and more! The festival\u2019s central hub at the V&A Museum is a great starting point, but you\u2019ll also find jaw-dropping public artworks and immersive experiences in places like Somerset House and the University of Westminster.<\/h4>\n

The festival isn\u2019t just for design pros – there\u2019s something for everyone. Many events are free, attend talks, workshops or simply enjoy a stroll through outdoor exhibits that bring art and architecture to the streets. The whole event champions sustainability, inclusivity and the power of design to shape our lives in fresh, thoughtful ways. If you’re looking for inspiration or just another way to explore the city, the London Design Festival is a vibrant, open invitation to experience the capital in a whole new light.<\/h4>\n

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4. St Ives September Festival<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
12th – 26th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"StSearching for a unique way to soak up the last of the summer sun in one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations? Then head down to St Ives in Cornwall for their epic September Festival. This isn’t your typical, crowded music festival. St Ives September Festival is a laid-back, two-week celebration of all things art and music.<\/h4>\n

From the 12th to the 26th September, this charming town transforms into a vibrant hub of artistic expression. Stroll along the scenic harbour, soundtracked by live music from cosy caf\u00e9s and lively pubs. Wander into galleries showcasing local talent or even catch a thought-provoking play at a quirky local venue. There’s something for everyone! Check out the festival’s daily program here as you prepare to discover the artistic spirit of St Ives!<\/h4>\n

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5. BBC Proms: Last Night of the Proms<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
12th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"BBCSeptember brings with it a bucket-list-worthy event: the Last Night of the Proms! This epic night of music promises an unforgettable end to the BBC Proms season. Taking place at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London, the lineup features the BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Symphony Chorus and BBC Singers, filling the air with their incredible sound.<\/h4>\n

This year, the party gets even bigger with the return of pianist Yuja Wang gracing the stage and Scottish tenor Nicky Spence joining the celebrations. Get ready for a night of soaring melodies, foot-tapping rhythms and that classic Last Night of the Proms atmosphere. Trust us, it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the final note fades.<\/h4>\n

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6. Waterworks Festival<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
12th &13th September 2026<\/span><\/h5>\n
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A post shared by Outlook Festival (@outlookfestival)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n