In autumn, the UK offers a relaxing holiday of all shapes and sizes. You can indulge in the breathtaking unspoilt nature, the beautiful surroundings and the picturesque views of the characteristic autumn landscapes.
In autumn, hotels are often cheaper than in the high season. So whether you opt for a budget campsite, a hostel or a stylish city centre hotel, the choice is yours!
Here are our favourite places to visit in the UK this autumn to explore the scenic coastal paths, stunning lakes and countryside.
1. The Lake District
This autumn, visit the popular UNESCO World Heritage Site for stunning lake and mountain views in the Lake District. The region is located in the Lake District National Park in the north-west of England. Here, you can enjoy everything from dog walks through the vast landscape to spectacular boat trips and treat yourself to afternoon tea in the many cafes and restaurants. There are plenty of restaurants and pubs where you can sit outside with a pint or wine as you climb the Old Man of Coniston.
2. New Forest
Travel to the New Forest National Park and marvel at the enchanting views. There are several walking routes to choose from, but we recommend the trails at Bolderwood, where you can enjoy the spectacular colours of the beech and oak trees. Another must-see is the Blackwater Tall Trees Trail, where you can find a collection of trees from around the world.
When it comes to spectacular scenery and beautiful colours, an autumn visit to the New Forest is hard to beat. Not only can you enjoy the amazing displays of colour, but you can also discover something special on the forest floor: acorns. You may also encounter wild boar wandering around the forest. These wild boars take part in the annual feeding, a tradition that goes back hundreds of years. Wild boars are among the forest’s large grazers and are released to feed on the fallen acorns. Unlike other animals, acorns are not poisonous to wild boars.
3. Edinburgh
Autumn is not only to be admired in the forest, but also in these great cities! Enjoy the city life in Edinburgh and stroll through the streets. Treat yourself to a hot drink while walking or visit a pub for a delicious hearty meal with a typical Scottish flair.
We recommend that you visit Princes Street Gardens during your walk. This park stretches between Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile and Princes Street, Edinburgh's main shopping street. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is also beautiful in autumn (as in any other season!)
4. The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms are a mountain range in the northeast of Scotland. Here you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday for young and old. In addition to the beautiful cycling and walking routes through the landscape, there are also exciting outdoor activities and water sports possible around the lakes. Especially in the autumn, the landscape looks like that from a fairytale book. Visit the Dark Sky Park and experience one of the clearest starry skies in the world. Discover more about the Cairngorms National Park here:
5. The Enchanted Forest: the Scottish light festival in the forest
In October 2022, Pitlochry will once again host Scotland’s favourite sound and light show. A visit to The Enchanted Forest will transport you to a unique and inspiring place where people of all ages can truly come together to connect and experience the forest as a wonderful playground.
With the beautiful Faskally Wood as your natural backdrop, experience a sound and light show that is utterly magical.
Let your imagination run wild with stunning visual effects and innovative design as you explore Forestry & Land Scotland’s beautiful autumnal Faskally Forest near Pitlochry.
6. Glenfinnanviaduct, Fort William
The Glennfinnan Viaduct has become a popular hotspot for many travellers to Scotland in the past decade. The viaduct is located in the west of Scotland, about 30 km from Fort William. This place probably looks familiar to you. It is the famous bridge from the novel by J. K. Rowling, over which Harry Potter and his friends travel in the Hogwarts Express.
Even for non-wizard students, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a Scottish attraction that should not be missed. Especially in the autumn, the view of the viaduct, the surrounding mountains, lakes and red-copper-brown forests exudes a magical feeling.
7. Isle of Skye: discover the Northern Lights
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most famous destinations. Unfortunately, this means that the island gets very busy during the summer months. Avoid the crowds and visit Skye in autumn to experience one of the world’s most amazing natural phenomena: the Northern Lights. Head to the Trotternish Peninsula at Skye’s northernmost point for the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
During the day, lace up your walking boots and stroll along secluded white beaches, such as Torrin or the idyllic shores of Loch Dunvegan. When the weather turns chilly, treat yourself to a fresh seafood lunch at one of the excellent local restaurants. The Loch Bay Restaurant is renowned for its cockles, mussels and squid ink broth.
