Autumn in the UK: Where to Experience the Most Spectacular Autumn Colours

Nature Off the beaten path

As summer fades and cooler breezes begin to sweep across the UK and Ireland, the landscapes transform into a spectacular palette of gold, russet, and deep crimson. Trees glow along quiet avenues, morning mist settles over mirror-still lakes, and countryside trails crunch gently underfoot. Autumn – often called “fall” by visitors from abroad – is one of the most atmospheric seasons to explore England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the wider island of Ireland.

Travelling between September and early November offers comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and an enchanting backdrop for a tailor-made holiday. Many of these destinations fit seamlessly into our Heart of England, Northern Discovery, Scotland Highlights, or all-island UK & Ireland itineraries.

Top Places to See Autumn Colours in the UK

The Lake District, Cumbria 

Why visit in autumn: To see mirror-still lakes reflecting golden woodlands and mist-covered hills

The Lake District is captivating all year, but autumn is perhaps its most picturesque season. The native woods surrounding lakes such as Grasmere, Buttermere, and Derwentwater burst into vibrant reds and golds, creating artistic reflections in the still waters. Add to that the frosty fells, cosy tearooms, and the peace of fewer tourists, and you have an ideal autumn retreat.

Must-sees:

  • A rowboat trip on Derwentwater
  • Woodland walks in Grizedale Forest
  • A visit to Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November Part of: Our Northern England Discovery Tour

Perthshire, Scotland 

Why visit in autumn: Scotland’s greatest concentration of ancient trees

 

Nicknamed “Big Tree Country,” Perthshire is arguably the autumn capital of Scotland. Its age-old forests, riverside paths, and towering evergreens shift into blazing shades of orange and copper throughout October. Towns such as Pitlochry and Dunkeld make charming bases, while landscapes around Loch Tummel and The Hermitage are unmissable.

Must-sees:

  • The Queen’s View overlooking Loch Tummel
  • A walk to Ossian’s Hall at The Hermitage
  • The Enchanted Forest light show in Pitlochry (October only)

Best time to visit: Early to mid-October Part of: Our Scotland 10-Day Explorer Tour

Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Wales

Why visit in autumn: Mountain vistas, tumbling rivers, and rich Welsh woodlands

Autumn in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park brings a dramatic blend of sweeping valleys, ancient forests, and rugged peaks brushed with gold. The wooded slopes near Beddgelert and Betws-y-Coed glow in warm tones, while rivers and waterfalls swell after autumn rain – ideal for photographers and walkers.

Best for:

  • Woodland hikes
  • Mountain panoramas
  • Peaceful lakeside wanderings

Best time: October Part of: Wales Discovery & Great British Circuit itineraries

The New Forest, Hampshire 

Why visit in autumn: Ancient oaks, roaming ponies, and peaceful paths

The New Forest transforms into a scene from a fairy tale in autumn. Its centuries-old oak and beech trees light up with colour, deer are seen during rutting season, and wild ponies wander through gilded glades. The mix of open heathland and dense woods offers varied walking experiences, while quaint villages like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are perfect for a countryside escape.

Must-sees:

  • Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
  • A ride on the scenic New Forest railway
  • Local cider and autumn produce in farm shops

Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October Part of: Our South of England Discovery Tour

The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire 

Why visit in autumn: Golden stone villages framed by glowing trees

Autumn adds an extra layer of charm to the Cotswolds. Honey-coloured villages like Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway are framed by copper leaves, while stately homes and countryside estates take on a warm, cinematic glow.

Must-sees:

  • Westonbirt Arboretum, with over 15,000 trees from around the world
  • A scenic drive between Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway
  • Autumn scenery along the Windrush Valley

Best time to visit: October Part of: Our Heart of England Tour

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast

Why visit in autumn: Coastal cliffs, forest parks, and fewer crowds

For a quieter autumn getaway, Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast offers a striking combination of dramatic coastline and peaceful woodland. Forest parks such as Glenariff and Roe Valley turn deep shades of amber, while early autumn is a beautiful time to explore the Giant’s Causeway without summer crowds.

Must-sees:

  • The Giant’s Causeway
  • Glenariff Forest Park waterfalls
  • Coastal drives around Ballintoy and Ballycastle

Best time: Late September to mid-October Part of: Our Northern Ireland & Ireland Explorer routes

Plan Your Autumn Adventure with Great British Trips

Autumn in the UK and Ireland offers far more than colourful landscapes – it’s a season of calm, atmosphere, and connection with nature. Whether you’re sipping cider in Somerset, hiking beside a misty Highland loch, exploring Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, or discovering Northern Ireland’s burning-gold forests, you’ll find some of the most memorable moments of the year.

Our tailor-made itineraries are designed to capture this seasonal magic, combining breathtaking scenery, local insight, and seamless travel planning. Let Great British Trips create your perfect autumn journey.

Sources