Top UK Autumn Getaways

As the leaves turn golden and a crisp breeze fills the air, autumn is the perfect time for a cosy UK getaway. The country’s rich landscapes, charming villages and historic cities transform into a palette of warm hues, making it ideal for exploring some of the most scenic spots. Whether you are looking for countryside charm or coastal beauty, here are the top autumn getaways you will not want to miss.

Norfolk: Coastal Beauty and Tranquil Countryside

Norfolk

Norfolk in the autumn, offers a peaceful retreat where golden beaches meet serene countryside. Explore the vast Norfolk Broads, where you can take a calming boat ride surrounded by autumnal reflections on the water. Holkham Beach with its windswept dunes is perfect for autumn walks, while the charming villages of Burnham Market and Blakeney invite you to explore their quaint street and cosy pubs. Don’t miss out on a visit to Sandringham Estate, where you can enjoy woodland walks bathed in autumn light.

Stay in a Pub Nearby

The Globe Inn is a charmingly refurbished dog and family-friendly pub located in the lively town of Wells-next-the-Sea. Overlooking the leafy Georgian square, the inn offers a selection of comfortable, coastal-themed ensuite rooms, providing a cosy retreat.

Book your stay here: The Globe Inn

Dorset: Rugged Coastlines and Rolling Hills

Dorset

Dorset’s dramatic landscapes become even more enchanting in autumn. The Jurassic Coast offers breathtaking cliffside views, with golden light illuminating the rugged beauty of places like Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks. For a mix of countryside and history, head to Corfe Castle, where the ruins are framed by the warm colours of fall. The county’s cosy villages, like Abbotsbury, offer traditional English charm, perfect for a peaceful autumn escape.

Stay in a Pub Nearby

Winyard’s Gap Inn is located on the edge of the picturesque village of Cheddington, perched high in the chalk fields of West Dorset. Surrounded by sweeping National Trust landscapes, the inn offers four spacious double en-suite rooms, along with two studio rooms featuring a kitchenette, lounge, and private outdoor area. This dog-friendly pub is the ideal base for exploring the stunning Jurassic Coast.

Book your stay here: Winyard’s Gap Inn

The Cotswolds: Quintessential English Countryside

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are famous for their postcard-perfect villages, rolling hills, and honey-coloured stone cottages, all of which look even more magical in autumn. Towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold are particularly stunning as the trees lining the streets turn to shades of amber and gold. The Cotswold Way offers picturesque walking trails, ideal for crisp autumn days, while cosy tearooms and boutique shops make for the perfect countryside retreat.

Stay in a Pub Nearby

The Frogmill is an award-winning 16th-century pub located in the vibrant village of Shipton Oliffe, just a 20-minute drive from Cheltenham. Set in the heart of the countryside, this historic inn welcomes both families and dogs, offering 28 boutique rooms across six distinctive styles. Book a Cotswolds getaway, indulge in delicious food and drinks, and relax in a haven of comfort and charm.

Book your stay here: The Frogmill

Northumberland: Wild Landscapes and Historic Castles

Northumberland

Northumberland is a dream destination for autumn adventurers. With its wild, unspoiled landscapes, this northern gem offers dramatic coastlines, ancient forests, and some of the country’s most stunning castles. Explore the enchanting grounds of Alnwick Castle, or take a walk along Hadrian’s Wall, where the autumnal scenery enhances the already breathtaking views. For a more remote experience, head to the Northumberland National Park, perfect for stargazing on clear autumn nights thanks to its Dark Sky status.

Stay in a Pub Nearby

William de Percy is a dog-friendly, luxury boutique coaching inn nestled in the heart of Northumberland, near the Scottish borders. This distinctive pub blends traditional charm with modern style, serving hearty meals and offering eight uniquely designed boutique bedrooms. Located just steps away from Northumberland National Park, it’s the perfect base for exploring the area.

Book your stay here: William de Percy

Suffolk: Charming Villages and Peaceful Countryside

Suffolk

Suffolk’s gentle landscapes are a perfect escape for a relaxing autumn break. The county is dotted with charming villages like Lavenham, known for its medieval timber-framed houses and historic beauty. The Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is perfect for autumn walks, with forests and coastal paths brimming with wildlife. Aldeburgh and Southwold offer quaint seaside charm with colourful beach huts and pebbled beaches, ideal for a quiet autumn stroll.

Stay in a Pub Nearby

The Black Lion is a 15th-century Georgian coaching inn, welcoming both dogs and families, located in the charming village of Long Melford near the Essex border. Once named the “Best Place to Stay in the East” by The Sunday Times, this pub offers ten beautifully designed bedrooms. Book a stay, savour delicious food and drinks, and explore the wealth of nearby attractions.

Autumn in the UK brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a fantastic time to explore the countryside and coastlines at a slower, more relaxed pace. From colourful foliage and cosy pubs to local harvest festivals and scenic walks, these destinations come alive with the magic of the season. Whether you’re looking for historical charm, outdoor adventures, or tranquil retreats, Norfolk, Dorset, the Cotswolds, Oxford, Northumberland, and Suffolk each offer something unique for an unforgettable autumn escape.

So, pack your walking boots, grab a warm scarf, and get ready to experience the beauty of autumn in these stunning UK destinations!

Written by Lucille Skinner