The UK transforms into a storybook landscape during autumn, with rolling green hills giving way to hues of red, orange and yellow. From fairytale Cotswolds villages to sprawling national parks and dramatic coastlines, these seven destinations offer some of the most beautiful scenery the country has to offer.
Perthshire, Scotland
Scotland's 'Big Tree Country' is a must-visit in autumn, as dense greenery becomes a canvas of red and orange. The Hermitage offers easy walking trails for families, with spectacular trees, ethereal waterfalls, and woodland creatures. Nearby Pitlochry, a charming Victorian town, serves as an excellent base and hosts an Enchanted Forest light trail in Faskally Wood, with autumn-themed displays reminiscent of Christmas lights.
Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
This iconic rock formation, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is made up of around 40,000 basalt rocks estimated to be 50-60 million years old. Autumn visitors can explore without the peak summer crowds. While scientists attribute the formation to crystallisation of molten lava, legend credits Irish giant Finn McCool with its creation.
New Forest, England
Home to over 1,000 ancient trees, roaming ponies, and traditional pubs with roaring fireplaces, the New Forest offers hundreds of walks. Independent shops, cafes, and B&Bs cater to every budget, while history enthusiasts can explore sites from a Napoleonic rifle range to Bronze Age barrows.
The Cotswolds, England
Quintessentially British villages like Castle Combe and Bibury feature breathtaking thatched cottages, while Upper and Lower Slaughter are famed for their pretty rows of houses. These villages serve as bases for exploring spectacular countryside, attracting tourists from around the world.
North Norfolk Coast, England
Grey seals settle along Norfolk's coastline, and Holkham is popular with families for its woodlands and easy walks. For a challenge, the 10-mile walk from Holkham to Blakeney offers incredible coastal views, with decent pubs providing roasts and pints by warming fireplaces at the end of the day.
