Five Day Trips From London In Autumn

To say London in autumn is beautiful is an understatement. Every park and every street is taken over by a paradise of colourful foliage, and the sky glows in matching hues to this natural landscape. However in the serenity of crunching leaves and delectable autumnal drinks, don’t forget that England is filled with places just as wonderful as the capital to enjoy seasonal sights. Here is a wonderful list of five day trips to take from London in autumn.

As the leaves begin to turn and a brisk breeze pushes you back into soft sweaters and knee-high boots, welcoming you to a season of change and endless beauty, remember that you have also entered a season perfect for exploration. 

Gorgeous red, orange, and golden tones surround you in crowd-less destinations, and the wonders of the natural world are on full display – awakening all your senses in delightful pleasure. Walking in rhythm to the sounds of crunching foliage, surrounded by the sweet scents of hot chocolate, is the perfect way to romanticize your life. 

Travelling in autumn has no downsides. Who can say no to empty attractions, cheap transport, cosy weather, and stunning scenery? So, grab your car keys or railcard, and make your way to new environments that will fill your pumpkin-loving, Halloween-obsessed heart with exciting adventure. They’re the perfect replacement for London’s magical parks and food markets.

Five Day Beautiful Trips From London

Bath, Somerset

With all its striking architecture, lush parks and historic bakeries, Bath always makes a wonderful day trip from London – but even more so in autumn. As the nights draw in, and cool air settles, what better way to spend your time than in thermal baths, watching the sunset over a glorious landscape? And if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, why not promenade along centuries-old structures while taking a bite of a warm pastry from the historic Sally Lunn’s Bakery?

Read more about Bath’s attractions here.

Canterbury, Kent

Canterbury and the surrounding towns of this region are home to some of the best Pumpkin Farms in the south and paired with charming pubs and majestic architecture, these are the best ingredients for a rewarding and traditional autumnal day trip. Kent in general is also a lovely destination if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to take on a winter hike along the coast as well.

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

Not list sharing the best day trips out of London this autumn is complete without mentioning England’s most picturesque setting.

Exploring the Cotswolds during this season is a rite of passage for any traveller making their way around England. You cannot avoid falling in love with the country’s hidden gems as they are wrapped in beautiful ribbons of red and orange leaves – however, despite all their splendour, most places like this are difficult to reach without a car. 

Castle Combe is a perfect little exception.

So, take a step back in time and into this picture-perfect, fairy-tale village. There is nothing quite like spending a few hours in England’s Prettiest Village, admiring the classic honey-hued stone cottages, and experiencing a tranquil atmosphere unchanged since the 1600s. 

Follow this link to discover other Cotswold Villages that are worth a visit.

Stratford-Upon-Avon, Warwickshire

If you equate autumn to good books, hot drinks and comfortable reading spots like I do, then why not take a day trip to the stunning town where Shakespeare was born? Surround yourself with fantastic second-hand bookstores, breathtaking parks, and Anne Hathaway’s oh-so-famous cottages to immerse in the very essence of this magnificent time of year.

Read more about Stratford-Upon-Avon’s attractions here.

York, Yorkshire

There is something about York that has always attracted me as a wonderful place to be in autumn, and I couldn’t tell you why. Perhaps it’s the Yorkshire charms, where fascinating history blends with contemporary elegance or the inviting idea of walking the (hopefully) empty York City Walls when there is a chill in the air. It could also be because of the quirky tea rooms, buzzing bars, chocolate shops or harry potter attractions.

Nevertheless, no matter the reason – the feeling of being drawn to a place is never one I get tired of and having it not cost as much as going to another continent is certainly a bonus.

Read more about York’s attractions here.

Practical Information

Location: England, United Kingdom

National Languages: English 

Currency: Sterling Pound

Neighbouring Countries: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland