Last updated: 2 September 2023
The morning air is crisp, a coat is needed early and late, but the days are still filled with blue skies and glorious sunshine. Autumn in England is just a delightful time of year as autumnal foliage transforms the English countryside into a dramatic fiery landscape of fallen russet red leaves. From September to mid-November, all around the country meadows and moors put on a vivid display of rusty coloured trees. Discover the great outdoors by heading into the hills at one of the many national parks, climb a mountain, wander across the moors, take a city break, or tackle a coastal path there are plenty of opportunities to appreciate the season.
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1. Rye, Sussex
Amidst the tangle of narrow streets and half-timbered houses it’s very easy to feel as though you’ve stepped back into medieval times when spending a weekend in Rye. At just over an hour on the train south of London, Rye is very accessible for a weekend away.
Autumn in England, especially on the coast, can get a little nippy so find yourself a nice pub with a roaring fire. One option is The Standard Inn is a restored 15th-century pub situated in the heart of the citadel. Another is the dog-friendly refurbished The Globe Inn Marsh on the edge of this quaint medieval town.
Be sure to pop by the photogenic cobbled lane that is Mermaid Street, and pop in for a pint at the Mermaid Inn, a Grade II listed historical inn with parts of the property dating from 1156! Here you can expect a whole lot of character with sloping ceilings, creaking floorboards, and ghost stories of local smugglers like the infamous Hawkhurst Gang.
Also, there are guided tours available on the last Sunday of every month at 4pm and 5pm so contact reception to make your booking. The price of a tour? A donation to the Mermaid’s charity of choice, the National Deaf Children’s Society.
A visit to Rye is incomplete without a visit to St Mary’s church. Frequently used for concerts, take a moment to appreciate the clock which was installed in about 1561, it’s one of the oldest church turret clocks in the country still functioning!
If you’re feeling energetic and willing to part with some coins, climb the tower of St Mary’s church to appreciate the intersecting rivers that border Rye from three sides, as well as views of rooftops and countryside from the top. On the way down, inspect the 8 bells and clappers dating back to the 1770s and weighing almost 5 tonnes!
If climbing the tower isn’t enough and you’re looking for some fresh air and fancy a dip in the frigid waters of the English Channel, then the nearby beach of Camber Sands proves worthy. Long stretch of sandy beach which is a vast improvement on the shale and pebbly beaches that dominate most of the country.
Find yourself with a spare hour or two? Head to the nearby town of Battle, it’s well worth a visit. Explore Battle Abbey and the grounds which was the site of the Battle of Hastings which is considered to be the biggest event in the history of England; where William, Duke of Normandy (soon thereafter known as William the Conqueror), battled King Harold for the English throne on 14 October 1066. Despite the confusing name, the Battle of Hastings, was in fact fought here at Battle, not at the nearby town of Hastings.
Where to Stay in Rye
- Stay in the Tudor style Grade II* listed Mermaid Inn which has been visited by The Queen and Prince Phillip! This tavern is atmospheric to say the least, with cellars dating back to the 12th century and secret passageways, and features has a large wooden beam supported by stone pillars. Don’t pass up the opportunity for a drink in the log fireplace bar which once frequented by local smugglers, or dine at the award-winning restaurant. Book it!
- Sleep in one of Rye’s most famous landmarks, the Grade II listed white smock windmill! Opt for the suite, situated INSIDE the windmill over two floors with panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a bottle of wine on your private balcony on the banks of the river Tillingham. Book it!
- Spend the weekend in a renovated barn in an idyllic secluded rural location just outside Rye. With miles of superb country walks and views over the Brede, the barn has a rustic shabby chic feel to it. Book it!
2. Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire
The birthplace of the world’s most famous playwright, Stratford-upon-Avon is inundated with Shakespeare-themed everything.
To get your fix of all things Shakespearean, why not grab a Full Story ticket from the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust which gives includes 12 months of unlimited visits to all 5 properties including the cottage of Shakespeare’s love interest, Anne Hathaway; experience the sights and smells of a Tudor farm; Hall’s Croft the home of Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna and of course the place where it all began Shakespeare’s Birthplace the house where he was born and grew up.
For 360° views of the town and surrounding areas, head to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre for a tour of the 31m tower shown in the image below.
Aside from perhaps The Globe in London, there’s no better place to see one of Shakespeare’s works performed than at one of the three theatres owned and operated by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
When you’re all Shakespeare-d out and if time is on your side, hire a row boat, punt, canoe, or motorised self-drive boat and explore over 3 miles of peaceful river. If you’d prefer to simply laze on the river and watch the world pass by, you can jump on one of many boat trips along the River Avon to enjoy this part of England in autumn.
Where to Stay in Stratford-upon-Avon:
- If you find yourself travelling by car for a weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon, why not stay at the nearby Studley Castle. This flagship hotel is one of the few adult only hotels across the UK, where the list of activities on offer is seemingly endless; cycle around the grounds, try your hand at archery, laser clay-pigeon shooting or spend the days lazing around the pool and spa.
- How about a tiny house with a private hot tub? Choose one of six small yet luxurious wooden homes with a log-fired hot tub and BBQ area with uninterrupted views over the countryside. These quaint homes are in the small village of Long Itchington in Warwickshire, 20 miles from Stratford-Upon-Avon. Book it!
- How about spending the night in a barn? This charming barn-conversion is just three miles to Stratford-upon-Avon. Situated on 4 acres with stunning views from the private deck, guests can take a stroll through the countryside or chill in the communal hot tub and indoor swimming pool. Make a day of it and take a picnic on your walk by stocking up on the award winning artisan farm shop, café, butchers and bakery all on site. Book it!
3. Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
Affectionately referred to as ‘The Potteries’, or simply Stoke to the locals, this region is home to some of the most important pottery manufacturers in the world, making this a rather unusual and unique destination for a short break in the UK.
Read More: A Weekend in Stoke-on-Trent
Discover the historic bottle ovens which once dotted the skyline of this industrial city, punt along the canals on a narrow boat, or grab a car so you can stock up on world class pottery bargains from factory outlets from big names such as Wedgwood, Burleigh and more.
Where To Stay in Stoke-on-Trent:
- Stay in an award-winning luxury glamping yurt on the edge of the Peak District. Equipped with a cosy wood burning stove oven, gas stove with 2 rings and a grill, all the crockery and cooking equipment you could possibly need. Wool blankets, fluffy towels and handmade toiletries, plus a private wood fired hot tub! Book it!
- Situated 13 miles east of Stoke, at the foot of the Peak District are these gorgeous log cabins and lodges. Set in quiet woodland with 46 acres of scenery and trails, this is the ideal base for a romantic getaway with each cabin equipped with their own hot tub. In this part of the country, mobile reception is iffy at best, take the opportunity to log-off digital life and reconnect with family and friends in this rural location. Book it!
- Full of character best describes this Grade II listed farmhouse situated on extensive gardens situated in a Hamlet near Denstone, about a half hour drive from Stoke. Book yourself into one of the rooms with a grand 4 poster bedrooms and make use of the private sitting room with roaring log fire throughout the colder months. Book it!
4. Chester, Cheshire
Full of charm and history, Chester, the capital of Cheshire, is a pretty little spot for a weekend getaway.
Situated close to the border of England and Wales, Chester is home to a complete set of Roman-era city walls, a cathedral and an impressive selection of churches, and the Rows, Tudor-style half-timber buildings with a two-level covered arcade in the city centre.
Read More: A Weekend in Chester
Take a tour of the city, or explore the relics left by the three hundred and fifty year occupation of the Romans with a Hypocaust, Roman Baths, dating back to 70-80AD. Roman Gardens stand to the south east of the city, and the UK’s largest excavated Roman amphitheatre, which would have once been the venue for wild beast fights, public executions, and gladiatorial combat.
The River Dee runs right through town, so be sure to cross over and explore the green fields of ‘the Meadows’ which lie on the other side. To see Chester from the water you can take one of a few sightseeing boats which operate along the waterway.
Less than 3 miles north of the city centre lies Chester Zoo, the UK’s most visited zoo. 125 acres of zoological gardens and over 21,000 animals including two newborn twin red panda cubs which are classed as endangered in the wild by conservationists.
The zoo has a strong focus on conserving endangered species, and to highlight the critically endangered status of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans, Chester became the world’s first ‘Sustainable Palm Oil City.’ with experts with businesses, hotels, schools and workplaces to introduce sustainable palm oil policies into their supply chain.
A current project is underway to enable visitors to stay over night and wake up to the sight of giraffes. The plan includes 28 “discreet” lodges and 14 “rigid tents” and a new restaurant with people able to eat dinner overlooking zebra, ostrich and antelope.
Where to Stay in Chester:
- How about a rustic safari tent? No, it’s not what you think. How about claw-foot roll top bathtubs, hot tub, rustic timber interior with a luxurious four poster bed. Need I go on? Book it!
- Nunsmere Hall is a beautiful country hotel set in the heart of Delamere Forest. Book it!
- Looking for a B&B that just screams bookworm? How sleeping in the UK’s only Victorian residential library! Situated in the village of Hawarden, some six miles from Chester. While rooms and amenities are sufficient, it is reading and reflection that is encouraged. Rooms are deliberately lacking in televisions, with guests having extended use of the only ministerial library in the country, the Reading Rooms and guests are permitted to take most books to their rooms. Book it!
- Situated in the heart of Chester, the 5-star The Chester Grosvenor boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, a Thermal Suite complete with herb sauna and steam room and luxurious rooms with bathrobes, slippers and luxury toiletries. Perfect for a luxurious city break! Book it!
5. Salisbury, Wiltshire
Salisbury in Wiltshire is ordinarily a typically small English city; quaint and typically very peaceful, but packs quite a punch in terms of things to see and do, especially for the lovers of history.
Home to an impressive cathedral featuring an immense spire, visitors can book onto one of the regular Tower Tours for spectacular views of the city, giving you a real bird’s eye view. Be sure to pop by at dusk and appreciate the medieval imagination when it’s lit against a darkening sky.
Salisbury Cathedral is home to the best preserved copy of the Magna Carta dating back to 1215, signed by King John. One of only four surviving copies in the world, it remains one of the most celebrated documents in English history, an enduring legacy with worldwide influence, often claimed to be the cornerstone of English liberty, law and democracy. It was entered into the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in 2009.
When in Salisbury, be sure to pop into the St Thomas’s Church. Entering through the west door and look down the nave where you are confronted with a remarkable medieval Doom painting, an English term for a wall-painting of the Last Judgment in a medieval church. The painter is unknown, but he is believed he was English, influenced by Flemish artists and painted the piece ~1470 before it was obliterated by coats of whitewash in the Reformation of 1593.
History lovers will rejoice at the nearby Salisbury Museum which is home to an impressive collection of prehistoric artefacts from forts that once stood on the Wiltshire downs.
Weekend visitors to Salisbury can enjoy the Saturday Charter Market in the main square which is filled with stalls selling fish, local cheese and bread making it the perfect place to purchase supplies for a picnic or perhaps something for your home.
Got a Spare Hour or Two and a Car? Explore Nearby
Situated on a hill overlooking the current and modern city of Salisbury is Old Sarum. The site of Salisbury’s first settlement, marking the remnants of the Royal Castle was built by William the Conqueror, and the Iron Age hill fort erected in 400 BC worthy of a few hours of your time. Free entry with English Heritage membership.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge, what is surely the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe. The sanctuary consists of a circle of menhirs arranged in a pattern. It’s a place of worship and celebration, although the layout of the stones and their astronomical significance is still being explored to this day.
Less than 25 miles west of Salisbury, across chalk plateau of Cranborne Chase is Longleat, the UK’s first drive-through safari park! The park is home to over 500 animals including lions, rhino and giraffes and the estate occupies a rather impressive 9,000 acres (36.42 km2) of Wiltshire countryside.
Where to Stay in Salisbury:
- Situated in the heart of the town is the 16th century family-run Chapter House. With the old-world charm of wooden beams and wall-panelling, original stone fireplaces and freestanding baths one could be forgiven for spending all weekend tucked under fluffy down duvet after tucking into a traditional roast in the gastropub downstairs. Book it!
- For a homely feel, try the Wyndham Park Lodge on the north side of Salisbury centre. Situated on a quiet residential street this charming B&B goes the extra mile. Some rooms have access to a patio, however all come with a hot and hearty full English breakfast. Book it!
- 10 miles south of Salisbury lies the charming village of Woodgreen lies a rather curious 300 year old thatched cottage. With the ability to accommodate up to 12 guests, and a minimum of a three night stay, this property is more suited to a larger family/group rather than a couple looking for a weekend away. Book it!
6. Isle of Wight, IoW
Keen for an autumn adventure on the Isle of Wight? Historically in Victorian times, Isle of Wight was a place of respite and to revitalise. They can’t be wrong since Osborne House was the palatial holiday home for Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and their children! Entry is free with English Heritage membership.
Take the air Victorian style with 64 miles of coastal path, or venture into Parkhurst Forest, one of the oldest forests in the country, and a haven for spotting native red squirrels. If two wheels is more your pace, grab a bike and explore Bicycle Island with over 200 miles of off-road and purpose-made tracks along the former railway line to enjoy.
If history is more your flavour, discover Dinosaur Isle, one of Europe’s finest sites for dinosaur remains.
Should you be keen to see a central place of power and defence on the Isle of Wight for over 1,000 years then look no further than Carisbrooke Castle. Once a Saxon fortress and a castle of the Norman conquest. Charles I was held prisoner here shortly before his execution in 1649 outside the Banqueting House in Whitehall. Free entry with English Heritage membership.
For foodies, Isle of Wight is a haven of choice. The mild climate ensures it’s home to a huge variety of local produce. Expect the freshest seafood straight from the daily catch and desserts and ice creams made from locally grown organic fruit and vegetables.
There’s a drinking culture here with locally brewed beer, wine, gin and cider. Support the local economy a bit further by taking home garlic, jams, chutneys, oils, bread and more.
Where to Stay in the Isle of Wight:
- How about on a large Yacht by the sea in Cowes? Book it!
- Want more luxury? How about a Grade II listed townhouse in the heart of Cowes. Sympathetically renovated to retain many of the original features including some very attractive period fireplaces. Book it!
- A former dairy turned luxurious cottage? Book it!
7. Wye Valley & Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
The River Wye is one of Britain’s most picturesque rivers, delineating the border between Wales and England. Steeped in history, the ancient woodlands of the Wye Valley date back to the Iron Age with an 8th-century earthwork which roughly traces the Anglo-Welsh border.
Today, the Wye Valley is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Forest of Dean is largest oak woodland and was also once the hunting ground of Norman kings.
The Wye Valley really comes into its own at the Forest of Dean where it throws shadows, colour and wooded limestone slopes frame the water. For a birds eye view over this picturesque scene, head for Yat Rock viewpoint in the village of Symonds Yat.
A visit to this region in autumn also happens to be a great time to forage for wild garlic, berries, mushrooms and herbs in the surrounding woodland. Yum!
History lovers will embrace the ruins of a Norman castle with well-preserved Medieval domestic buildings and visitor centre exhibition.
For the active weekend adventurer, the Wye River offers fishing, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. The nearby River Severn is home to the Severn Bore, one of Britain’s few truly spectacular natural phenomena. Essentially it’s a large surge wave in the estuary of the River Severn, where the tidal range is the 2nd highest in the world, being as much as 50 feet (approx. 15.4m) with people lining up along the banks to capture images while others done on wetsuits and attempt to surf it!
Where to Stay in the Wye Valley:
- 17th-century hunting lodge set overlooking the romantic wilderness. Book it!
- How about a beautiful hand-built yurt sitting in the heart of Wye Valley AONB? Book it!
- Or a romantic hut nestled amongst the bluebell woods in the Usk Valley? Book it!
8. Richmond, Surrey
A super easy autumnal escape from central London is Richmond, just 16 minutes by train from Waterloo. Claiming to be London’s most attractive borough, Richmond upon Thames has long been a favourite retreat for Royalty and the rich and famous.
Richmond is home to the National Archives which acts as the guardian of over 11 million iconic national documents spanning over a thousand years. Many national treasures, too many to list, but some of the big ones include Shakespeare’s will, the abdication letter of Edward VIII, a signed confession of Guy Fawkes of the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1604 to blow up the House of Lords and assassinate King James I.
Set within the beautiful grounds of Kew, time your visit to coincide with one of the monthly Behind the Scenes tours through the labyrinth of corridors at this purpose built repository.
No trip to Richmond is complete without a visit the famed Richmond Park. This enormous estate of 2500 acres is the largest of the Royal Parks and a haven for wildlife including a large population of red deer.
Autumn in England, between September and November, is rutting season red stags pumped full of testosterone, roar, bark and clash antlers to fight off rivals and attract as many females as possible. Ramblers often route their trail through to Pen Ponds to see this natural phenomenon which is quite something to behold, just be sure to maintain a fair distance for your own safety.
Visitors often come prepared with a blanket, a picnic basket filled with finger sandwiches, sweet treats and a thermos. Don’t forget your favourite book and lounge around on fallen trees surrounded by autumn leaves in all their orange, red and golden glory. Which all sounds delightfully civil, be sure to keep an eye on the brazen ducks who will snatch your sandwich if you’re not looking.
Take a stroll to King Henry’s Mound for a view straight down to St Paul’s Cathedral. Visitors can use the telescope to view St Paul’s through this protected vista is fully framed by trees, the aperture changing through seasons and pruning, at a distance of over 10 miles (16 km).
Saunter along the paths, taking in the fresh crisp autumn air, just mindful of Lycra-clad cyclists on bicycles who wiz around the asphalt like it’s their own personal racetrack.
From here, head to the Roebuck pub on Richmond Hill for lunch and a view, and see the view of the bend in the Thames river made famous by Turner’s 19th century The Thames from Richmond Hill which can be viewed in the Tate Britain by appointment.
6 miles south of Richmond is the impressive 16th century, Hampton Court Palace. What was once home to King Henry VIII and many of his six wives, the estate is full of history and intrigue. It is entirely possible to spend a whole day here, don’t miss the tapestries, the expansive gardens and the informative audio guide which is included in your ticket price.
Where to Stay in the Richmond:
- Spend the night on a Dutch barge moored on a beautiful stretch of the Thames right by the UNESCO site of Royal Botanic Gardens, aka Kew Gardens. Consider the Captain’s Cabin. Book it!
- If you’re still keen on a boat but rather be closer to central London, how about a narrowboat barge on Regent’s Canal? Kitted out with a fully fitted kitchen where you can whip up a romantic, waterside meal for two, gas hob and oven, and a log fired stove. Double bed, a sofa bed and the bathroom is even equipped with a shower. Book it
- For more traditional style accom, consider the Coach & Horses, a 17th century inn located by Kew Green, across from the Royal Botanical Gardens. The quintessentially English theme but with all the mod cons of you’ve come to know and expect. This spectacular location is just minutes on foot to the National Archives and Kew Steam Museum. There’s also free parking onsite or a ten minute stroll across Kew Bridge to the station for a 30 min train journey to/from Waterloo station. Book it!
9. Whitby, Yorkshire
This small seaside town in Yorkshire is famed for its fish and chips and for its beautiful and atmospheric Abbey which is perched on a flat plain on the headland overlooking the rush and roar of the North Sea.
For centuries, the town has inspired artists and writers, including Bram Stoker, who used Whitby as the location for the first landing of Dracula in England.
Photographers, history buffs, and lovers of ruins should spend time discovering Whitby Abbey. The first monastery at this site dates back to the 7th century, although what remains today is the shell of the medieval 13th-century Benedictine abbey founded after the Norman Conquest. Entry into the Abbey is free with an English Heritage membership.
For many international visitors including Aussies and Kiwis, there’s a museum dedicated to 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook that might be of interest. The museum is located in the lodgings that was once used for Whitby-trained seamen.
Explore Whitby further by taking a walk along the beach or explore the many hiking and biking trails through the nearby North York moors.
Where to Stay in the Whitby:
- Cute as a button describes this former pump-house turned 3-floor abode in the middle of Whitby’s old town harbour. Equipped with all the mod-cons, enjoy a bottle of wine on the large decked patio overlooking the harbour. Book it!
- Less than half a mile from the North York Moors National Park, The Stables offers dining and accommodation, 2 miles (3.2km) from the seaside town of Whitby. The family-run restaurant serves a varied seasonal menu with a strong emphasis on sourcing local produce. Sit beside the log burner in the garden room and soak up the views over the Esk Valley in a rustic setting, with exposed beams and flagstone floors. Skip the rooms and go straight for the Lodge which includes access to a private hot tub and sauna! Book it!
Map of 9 Awesome Weekend Breaks Celebrating Autumn in England:
Want to know where you could be going for the weekend? Take a look at the detailed map below.
