UK Travel

How to plan your autumn staycation in the UK

Summer has ended, and the cooler weather is gradually arriving. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t deter you from enjoying your weekends to the fullest. Go outside, bask in the remaining summer sunshine, and soak up as much vitamin D as possible. Alternatively, consider booking an autumn staycation or a day trip with these great recommendations.

Spend a weekend in Canterbury, Kent

Canterbury, a historic English city, offers an array of activities for a weekend visit. One can explore the magnificent interior and architecture of Canterbury Cathedral. Stroll through the town to appreciate the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Sign up for a walking tour from £15 with GetYourGuide to delve into the history of this captivating city. Book your accommodation at The Falstaff a boutique hotel close to westgate gardens. For more details about my experience at The Falstaff read my earlier blog post.

Canterbury city
Inside Canterbury cathedral
The Falstaff Hotel

Spend a day at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace stands as a landmark of England, formerly the residence of Henry VIII. A palace full of history, and Tudor interior. You can explore the Palace and state apartments, chapels, gardens, and learn about the history of this remarkable palace. Visit the maze, magic garden and afterwards have a bite to eat at The Tiltyard Cafe. Admission tickets start from £27.20 on GetYourGuide.

Hampton Court Palace
The Gardens
The courtyard

Do a Brighton staycation in autumn

A beach staycation can be more enjoyable than one can expect. Imagine fewer crowds, tranquil strolls along the shore, and savoring fish and chips while watching the sunset. Stay in the heart of Brighton at Doubletree by Hilton Brighton Metropole and just 5 minutes walk from Brighton pier. Visit the Upside Down House, one of the best activities in Brighton. This amusing attraction is quite affordable, costing only £5. Inside, everything appears upside down, creating a fascinating illusion, while you stay right-side up. It’s the perfect opportunity to snap plenty of photos and immerse yourself in the experience.

Explore Brighton Palace Pier. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk, and discover a variety of arcades, roller coaster rides, eateries, and food and drink stalls. Enjoy drinks 138 meters high on Brighton i360 pod. Book more activities on GetYourGuide or Viator.

Brighton beach in autumn
Upside down house
Brighton Palace Pier with rides

Visit a Botanical Garden

One of the best Botanical gardens in England is without a doubt Kew Gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage site full of beautiful gardens to explore and enjoy. Tickets start from £12 on GetYourGuide.

During your visit, make sure to spend some time in the Temperate House, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse. Discover plants from across the globe. Afterwards, visit the Palm House, another Victorian glasshouse. Home to many tropical plants and it replicates the climate of the Amazon rainforest.

I suggest booking tickets online instead of paying on the day; you’ll find the queue is shorter. Kew Gardens is wonderful in every season, but an autumn visit is particularly stunning as the leaves change color.

Great Pagoda
Glasshouse
Japanese Garden

Spend 24hrs in Bath, Somerset

Bath is one of my favorite cities to explore in the UK, and for good reason! Steeped in English history, it is a popular film location for period dramas. Known for its Roman baths, hot springs, medieval heritage, and Georgian architecture, it offers plenty to do and see. Book a tour guide on GetYourGuide and learn about the history, explore Bridgerton filming locations. Enjoy afternoon tea with Mr Darcy at The Jane Austen center.

Jane Austen Center
The Royal Crescent
A traditional Room at Henrietta House

Book your overnight stay at Henrietta House, a member of Radisson Individuals. For more travel inspiration read my blog post on the best day trips from London by train.

Disclosure: Some of the links on this page contain affiliate links. This just means that if you choose to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Travellers Stays is a travel blog by a solo female traveler, sharing travel guides, honest hotel reviews and solo tips to help readers plan unforgettable trips.

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