Despite its gloomy reputation, autumn is one of the best times to explore the U.K.
England’s coastal gems may be too nippy this time of year but don’t miss out on a plethora of charming villages, picturesque parks, and, of course, the multitude of action-packed cities.
Obviously, London being the main draw. Yet even as popular as this iconic city may be, there are still secret treasures to uncover, especially in fall.
Getting around the U.K. is quite easy, with straightforward train connectivity and cross-country flights, making it all the more enticing for a multi-city adventure.
Now that we’re in the throws of fall, you can enjoy all the seasonal splendor in these 3 magical U.K. escapes – including a hush-hush region of London nobody ever talks about! 🤫
Allen Banks: The U.K.’s Most Blissful Fall Escape
Allen Banks may sound like a dapper, pipe-smoking British gentleman, but it’s indeed a gorgeous 617-acre haven of natural beauty waiting to be discovered.
Nestled in England’s beautiful Northumberland, you better clear your camera roll or upgrade your phone storage in this protected forestry boasting a kaleidoscope of fall colors and virtually no crowds to interrupt your photo sesh.
In fact, one recent visitor claimed on Reddit, there was ‘nobody else for miles’, but that’s just the tip of the nonexistent iceberg in terms of rave reviews of this place.
Fall is arguably the best time to visit before the frigid winter temps roll around turning the vibrant tree lines into a dreary wasteland.
From now to December, though, you’ll be mesmerized by all the fall colors lining the tranquil trails, trickling rivers, and serene gorges, like one of the most photo-worthy lookout points, Steward Gorge.
Tip: Take the 2.5-mile Moralee Tarn Walk to discover a hidden lake!
Chester: A Medieval Marvel That Shines In Fall
The U.K.’s very own Daily Mirror has gone as far as saying their beloved Chester is ‘more beautiful than Rome and Venice’ – strong words, but is it true?
Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder as they say, but there’s no arguing how pretty this lesser-known city is in autumn.
Steeped in well-preserved history and traditional Tudor architecture, you’ll forget all about the bright lights of London as this city captivates you from the get-go.
Chester is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the U.K.; you’ll be equally fascinated by its historical charm as you are with its array of fall colors, like a visit to the city’s Roman Wall remnants.
Furthermore, Chester’s Eastgate Clock gives London’s famous Big Ben a run for its money, and the seemingly ageless Chester Cathedral will have you ‘ohh-ing’ and ahh-ing’ over it.
In other words, London may be England’s top dog, but Chester’s aesthetics are just as appealing, if not more than some of Europe’s most renowned destinations.
Travel Tip: Chester is not only gorgeous but also a great value! You can stay in 4-star hotels such as Leonardo Hotel Chester in November for under $70 per night!
Epping Forest: London’s Best Kept Secret!
Big Ben, the London Eye, double-decker bus rides, and the ever-so-popular Buckingham Palace – what you never hear about is the insanely beautiful, tranquil, and ancient region of London’s Epping Forest.
Roughly an hour’s ride from London on the Tube, this quiet side of London is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle and is often more affordable than, say, Kensington or Hyde Park.
I personally stayed at Epping Forest Hotel and loved it!
Walking around the scenic trails, parks, and delightful overlooked districts such as Walthomstow, one of many ‘Tube’ stations stops was the highlight of my trip.
It felt so much more authentic than the touristy traps and chaos of the city center, where locals were happy to welcome an outsider into their beloved pubs and shops.
Once you enter into the vast greenery of Epping Forest, it never seems to end. Good news is it’s easily navigable.
You’ll see many locals out and about taking a nice stroll or bike ride, which you can join by renting a bike at Go Further Cycling.
Travel Tip: Epping Forest beholds a hidden village – High Beech. Here, you’ll find sweeping views of the countryside, cozy cafes, local pubs, and the best foliage photo-ops.
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