BBC Morning Live presenter Helen Skelton has shared the best things to do in the cooler weather, saying autumn is one of her favourite times of the year to get outdoors. Her comments come as three-quarters of Brits said the record-breaking heatwave this summer has made them appreciate chillier weather more.
A survey found 74% of people admitted soaring temperatures this summer made them more grateful for cooler weather. The study also revealed two-fifths (40%) of Brits say they are more excited than ever for autumn, with staycations, day trips and long walks among the activities the nation pressed pause on this summer.
Helen Skelton on the joys of autumn
Ahead of summer ending on August 31, Helen explained: "Autumn is one of my favourite times of the year to get outdoors. After the heat of summer, there's something really refreshing about crisp air, cooler days and seeing the landscape start to change."
She added: "It's a brilliant time for exploring somewhere new, walking and making a proper day of it - especially if there's a cosy pub and a roast waiting at the end. I think we sometimes assume the best time to get out and explore is during summer, but autumn has so much to offer."
"The temperatures can be far more comfortable for a day trip or long walk, the colours are incredible and places often feel a little calmer once the summer rush has passed. For me, some of the best days are the simple ones - getting outside, discovering a new stretch of coastline or countryside and spending time with friends or family."
Brits embrace the 'cosy season'
After a summer spent seeking shade, 25% of Brits quizzed in the South Western Railway study said they are ready for 'cosy season'. Taking countryside walks (41%), visiting a pub (34%) and scoffing a Sunday roast (33%) all feature in the top ten list of activities that are simply better in autumn.
The survey revealed more than half (53%) are already planning to take a UK-based trip this autumn, with two-fifths (39%) saying they are more likely to go on a staycation or day trip in the autumn than in summer. Visiting the coast (36%) topped the list of places the nation wants to catch a train to this cosy season, followed by the countryside (29%) and cities (24%).
Rail sale to encourage autumn exploration
An adventurous 15% said they wanted to visit somewhere they had never visited before, while for one in ten, food and drink destinations are on their bucket lists. To help the nation embrace the refreshing change in season, South Western Railway has announced a sale on rail travel across its network, encouraging Brits to explore the south west and beyond from as little as £3.
The nation's all-time favourite autumn activities include countryside walks (41%), visiting a pub (34%), Sunday roasts (33%), woodland walks (33%), coastal walks (31%), day trips (26%), visiting friends or family (24%), a walk and a Sunday roast (21%), exploring a historic town or city (19%), and visiting new places (19%).
