With most of Great Britain seeing terrible weather and even worse forecasts through July and August, many families are giving up hopes of a family holiday.
The good news is that it’s never too early to start planning another staycation! With autumn on the horizon, you might even get the chance to see unique seasonal charms in ways you’ve never experienced.
Whether you’re going away with a large family or seeking a romantic retreat, there are so many possibilities to seize when it comes to autumnal holidays in the UK. We’ve outlined a few ideas and suggestions to help you experience seasonal beauty on your next staycation.
How to plan an autumn holiday in the UK
- Choose your destination
Firstly, you need to make sure you can base your plans around a destination. Road trips might be exciting, but you’ll be sure to have a more enriching experience when you can truly explore every part of the place you visit. A few popular choices include:
- The Lake District National Park: Home to England’s highest peak, the Lake District boasts an array of breathtaking landscapes defined by green mountains, rugged hillsides, and crystalline lakes between quaint towns and villages.
- The Cotswolds: The legendary Cotswolds AONB is the self-described exploring and walking capital of England. This protected area promises rolling, green fields and an impressive selection of picturesque towns too.
- Pembrokeshire, Wales: Home to over 50 beaches spanning across 186 miles of magnificent coastline, Pembrokeshire retreats make an idyllic choice for any couple or family. Choose between lively towns or calm, tranquil resorts.
- Ayrshire and Arran, Scotland: Never overlook Scotland for an autumnal getaway in the UK. You’ll escape midge season and might even be treated to the most impressive natural phenomenon, the Northern Lights, between September and October.
- Find the right accommodation
Being comfortable on holiday will guarantee to give everyone a better experience overall.
Talk to your family members or partner and try to work out the best approach to accommodation. Whether you prefer self-catered cottages or luxury hotels, make sure to strike a balance between flexibility and value.
Of course, there’s always the option to camp or take your own motorhome. Regardless of where you’ll be parking your van or motorhome while on holiday, make sure that you pack all the essentials and take out comprehensive insurance for peace of mind too.
- Embrace natural beauty
Those who live in urban areas might be surprised by the bountiful natural scenery on offer just a few miles away from home. Try to think about ways to see some beaches, forests, fields or even mountains.
If you’re an active group, you could take part in fun-filled activities like hiking, canoeing, or mountaineering. Even if you can only complete the most accessible routes, you can choose from an incredible selection of wheelchair- and pushchair-friendly walks in England, Scotland, and Wales.
- Time your trip right
Depending on the type of holiday you’re looking for, timing could be everything.
Thinking about term dates for most UK schools could be an excellent way to beat the crowds and enjoy lower prices too. Generally, anything between early-September and mid-October should guarantee quieter, calmer days in touristic areas, especially during the middle of the week.
But if you’re going away with the children, you’ll need to book during the school holidays unless you’re granted exceptional circumstances due to the nature of your career. And the most breathtaking natural phenomenon during autumn is the colourful tapestry of orange, red, and golden leaves on the trees. These are best seen during mid- to late-October.
Regardless of your preferences, autumn getaways in the UK promise unexpected joy, sensational views, and an abundance of natural scenery and wildlife.
Image: Broadhaven, Pembrokeshire in Autumn (Deposit Photos)
