Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Autumn UK for Stunning Views

Autumn in the UK is pure magic. The air gets crisp, the leaves turn into fiery shades of gold and red, and every corner looks like it belongs on a postcard. It’s the season for cosy walks, hot chocolate, and road trips you’ll remember forever.
If you’ve been wondering where to go this year, here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to visit in autumn UK. Because autumn is the perfect time to try a road trip in style, think about hiring a motorhome, packing your favourite snacks, and heading out to chase the prettiest views the season has to offer.
10 Best Places to Visit in Autumn UK
Here is the complete list of the 10 best places to visit in autumn UK:
1. The Lake District – A Leaf-Lover’s Paradise
If we’re talking about the best places to visit in autumn UK, the Lake District tops the list. The lakes reflect the warm colours of the trees, and the fells look like they’re painted in every shade of amber, orange, and gold.
Take a stroll around Derwentwater or Grasmere, rent a boat, or hike up Catbells for views that will make your Instagram pop. The crowds are thinner in autumn, so you get those serene views mostly by yourself. If you’re using luxury motorhomes for hire, the Lake District has some of the best caravan parks with stunning views right from your pitch.
2. The Cotswolds – Cosy Villages and Cobblestone Charm
Autumn in the Cotswolds feels like stepping inside a storybook. The honey-colored cottages look even warmer under the golden light, and the countryside is perfect for long, slow walks. Stop by Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bibury for picture-perfect moments.
Don’t forget to try a traditional cream tea; it hits differently when the weather is crisp outside. It is also a perfect spot if you’re going for a luxury motorhome rental, since you can park just outside the villages and explore at your own pace.
3. Scottish Highlands – Autumn on a Grand Scale
If dramatic landscapes are your thing, the Highlands are calling. Autumn brings out the deep russet tones of the hills, misty mornings over lochs, and wildlife like red deer that are easier to spot this time of year.
Drive through Glen Coe, stop at Loch Ness, and take in the winding roads that look straight out of a movie scene. Renting a motorhome gives you the freedom to stop wherever you like for that perfect golden-hour photo.
4. Peak District – Rugged Beauty Meets Autumn Glow
The Peak District is one of the best places to visit in autumn UK if you love a bit of rugged charm. Mam Tor offers panoramic views, Stanage Edge is a dream for walkers, and Chatsworth House is a must-visit with its gardens in full autumn display.
Park up your luxury motorhomes at one of the scenic campgrounds and spend your evenings under the stars; it doesn’t get better than this.
5. Norfolk Broads – Tranquil Autumn Vibes
Autumn on the Broads is all about peaceful boat rides, quiet nature walks, and spotting migrating birds. The waterways look magical, with leaves floating on the surface, and the sunsets here are at the next level.
If you’re doing a road trip with motorhome hire UK, stop at one of the nearby coastal towns like Cromer or Wells-next-the-Sea for fresh seafood and cosy pubs.
6. Cornwall – Sea Meets Autumn
Cornwall isn’t just for summer. In autumn, the crowds thin out, and you get those stunning coastal paths mostly to yourself. Walk along the South West Coast Path, explore St. Ives’ art galleries, or grab a Cornish pasty while watching the waves crash dramatically against the cliffs.
The weather can be a little wild, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. Plus, parking a motorhome near the coast means you wake up to those jaw-dropping ocean views.
7. New Forest – Wild Ponies and Autumn Magic
The New Forest is straight-up enchanting in autumn. The forest floor is covered in leaves, the trees turn brilliant shades of copper and yellow, and yes, you’ll see ponies wandering around freely. It’s one of the best places to visit in autumn UK if you want to slow down, breathe, and enjoy nature. Take a cycle ride or just walk one of the many forest trails.
8. Yorkshire Dales – Countryside Bliss
Rolling hills, dry-stone walls, and tiny stone villages, the Yorkshire Dales are a dream in autumn. Malham Cove is a must-see, as is Aysgarth Falls, which looks especially dramatic when the autumn rains swell the water flow. For foodies, this region is also home to some of the UK’s best pubs and farm shops, perfect for hearty autumn lunches.
9. Brecon Beacons – Wales at Its Best
If you’re looking for somewhere a little wilder, the Brecon Beacons deliver. Think waterfalls, misty hills, and some of the most dramatic skies you’ll ever see. It is one of the top spots for stargazing too, as the Brecon Beacons is a Dark Sky Reserve. Park your motorhome, grab a blanket, and look up. It’s a bucket-list moment.
10. London Parks – Autumn in the City
You don’t have to head into the countryside to enjoy autumn magic. London’s parks: Hyde Park, Richmond, and Hampstead Heath put on an incredible show. Richmond Park is special this time of year because it’s deer rutting season. Keep a respectful distance and bring your camera.
Why Autumn Is the Perfect Time for a Motorhome Trip
Whether you go to hire a motorhome or splurge on luxury motorhomes, this is the season to do it. It turns an ordinary weekend trip into a full-on adventure. Here’s why autumn is the ultimate motorhome season:
- Fewer tourists = quieter roads and better campsite availability.
- The cooler weather makes cosy evenings inside your motorhome feel extra special.
- You can park near some of the best places to visit in autumn UK and wake up with a view.
Final Words
Autumn in the UK is too beautiful to stay indoors. Whether you’re exploring the Highlands, wandering through Cotswold villages, or chasing sunsets on the Norfolk coast, these are the best places to visit in autumn UK that will make you fall in love with the season all over again.
So pack a sweater, grab your camera, and maybe even book that luxury motorhome you’ve been thinking about. The open road and the prettiest season of the year are waiting.
FAQs
When is the best time to see autumn colours in the UK?
Late September to early November is the peak season for autumn colours.
Is autumn a good time for road trips?
Yes, fewer crowds, beautiful weather, and stunning scenery make it ideal.
Can I camp in a motorhome in autumn?
Absolutely. Many sites stay open year-round, and autumn feels cosy for camping.
Do I need to book a motorhome in advance?
Yes, especially for weekends and holidays, availability can fill up fast.
Is autumn weather in the UK very rainy?
It can be, so pack waterproofs, but that’s part of the charm (and the stunning misty views!).