As our days get shorter, and the September air begins to chill, autumn’s palette of fiery reds and golden yellows will begin to make an appearance. If you’re planning a staycation for the next couple of months, here’s eight places you can visit to make the most of autumn…
Cambridge
The famous university town is a great place for a weekend staycation, and feels especially magical during the autumn months. The old college buildings (Queens’ college contains ‘some of the oldest brickwork in the country’) and cobbled streets are especially beautiful during the autumn months. Touring the university buildings at the start of the academic year gives you a feel for the excitement of students who are just about to begin their degrees, and a boat trip along the canal is a unique way to take it all in.
Mount Stewart House
Owned by the National Trust, Mount Stewart is a 19th Century house and garden in County Down, Northern Ireland. The house and gardens were the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family, Marquesses of Londonderry. The gardens, which include a beautiful lake, are the perfect place to soak in the autumn air and seasonal changes.
Castle Combe
One of the most picturesque villages in England, Castle Combe is well worth a visit during autumn. The main street and bridge across Bybrook river is a famous photo spot, and it is especially beautiful during the autumn months. The village has 107 listed buildings, and is located within the Cotswolds Area of Natural Beauty.
New Forest
One of the most popular destinations for a staycation, the New Forest has breath-taking views and scenic walks that are especially enjoyable during the autumn months. It is a habitat for many rare birds and animals and New Forest Northern Commons is managed by the National Trust.
Richmond Park
You can’t really go wrong with Richmond Park in most seasons and autumn is no different. It is the quintessential getaway from London we all crave. The serene misty mornings and frolicking deer on the backdrop of orange hues make it an absolute autumn must-see. It boasts 2,500 acres (including three ponds) for you to hike, bike or even drive through.
Lake District
England’s largest National Park and a World Heritage Site is easily one of the most beautiful places in the UK and it’s no different in the autumn months. Because of its sheer beauty it’s clear to see why the Lake District attracts so many visitors during the summer holidays, so if you want to avoid the crowds and opt for a peaceful break, autumn is the best time to go. Watch as the forests and valleys surrounding the waterfalls and lakes turn from green to shades of gold orange red and brown. There are fantastic pubs and hotels to choose from all with amazing views to satisfy the poet in you.
The Scottish Highlands
Scotland’s summers might be wet, but in autumn you can get more dry days, amazing clear views including the northern lights and wildlife. You only need to look at the pictures to see what kind of views you are in for. Highland Perthshire is one of the best places where you can see the landscape of autumnal colours of the woodlands but really when in Scotland you are spoilt for choice. And if you want to see them perfectly reflected into a beautiful lake head to one of the many beautiful Lochs surrounding you.
Wye Valley and Symonds Yat
On the border between England and South Wales you will find the spectacular River Wye and the Black Mountains. To admire the idyllic aerial views of the River Wye and surrounding areas, Symonds Yat Rock is the perfect viewpoint. Here you can see the valleys meet and combine the beautiful palette of autumnal hues. Make sure you visit the pretty village too. Canoeing/kayaking on the River Wye are popular activities and will give you a brand new perspective of your stunning surroundings.
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