The capital of the United Kingdom isn’t just about Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square. London is also a wonderful destination for a leaf-peeping trip. There are many spectacular destinations around the city and its outskirts, and you’re about to discover what they are. But first, let’s see when is the perfect time to go to London for an autumnal adventure.
When should you go?
The golden season in London starts a bit later than in other countries. Leaves start changing colors in mid-October, and by the end of the month, you can spot the whole city dressed up in yellow, orange, and red hues. This gorgeous period lasts for only about two weeks, ending approximately after the first week of November.
Where should you go?
It may come as a surprise that London offers plenty of places to watch autumn leaves. We have picked the top spots so that you can get the full fairytale experience.
The Cotswolds
This location is not in London, but it’s only a two-hour drive from the city. The Cotswolds is a real fairytale destination, which offers an English country vibe during autumn. You can take tours to one of the many castles, like Stratford, Warwick Castle, and others. And, on your way there through picturesque lanes, be sure to stop by the authentic villages of Bampton, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water. You can see amazing views of the autumnal English countryside and take some amazing photos while you're there.
Winkworth Arboretum
Winkworth Arboretum is an ideal destination for a one-day family drip. The drive there takes only one hour, and you can get there by car, train, or bus. At Winkworth Arboretum, you can enjoy sunrise and sunset strolls with your family, attend local pumpkin carving events, or just go for an atmospheric autumn walk. During your promenade, you’ll have an opportunity to witness more than a thousand ancient oaks, maples, and other rust-colored trees and bushes.
London's parks
If you don’t feel like leaving the city, consider going to one of London’s parks. During the golden season, you can enjoy all sorts of red and golden trees, visit ponds covered with mystic fog, take a bike ride along the fairytale lanes, or throw a picnic with your friends. If you ask a local for advice, they’ll suggest going to St. James’s Park, Greenwich Park, Holland Park, Regent’s Park, Primrose Hill, and many others. But it doesn’t matter which of these parks you end up going to because in any case, you won’t be disappointed.
Tips
London is an extremely popular autumn foliage destination, so if you’re also planning to go there to enjoy lush golden leaves, we suggest booking your accommodation in advance (check out recommended options on a map below).
Practical info
When is the ideal time to visit London for autumn leaves?
The optimal period for observing fall foliage in London is from the end of October through to the beginning of November when leaf colors peak. During this two-week period, the leaves change color and display stunning amber and golden hues. It's essential to plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the best of London's fall foliage. Show more
Where can one find the best autumn foliage in London?
Winkworth Arboretum is among the most favorable places to explore in and around London for autumn foliage. The spot features over one thousand ancient oaks, maple trees, and bushes awash with the characteristic rust color of the season. Other ideal locations include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, Bampton, The Cotswolds, Stratford, and Warwick Castle. Show more
What are the top parks in London to visit for fall colors?
St. James's Park, Holland Park, Regent's Park, Greenwich Park, and Primrose Hill are the best parks to visit during the fall season in London. During this time, nature's magnificence displays an array of golden and red hues as the trees and surrounding landscape transform. The scenery is breathtaking, complete with bike lanes, ponds filled with fog, and picnic spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Show more
What are some recommended accommodations for a leaf-peeping trip to London?
If you plan to tour London during the fall season, it's advisable to book your accommodation in advance. Some of the recommended places to stay include Montcalm Royal London House, Thistle Trafalgar Square, The Hoxton Holborn, and CitizenM London Tower of London. Additionally, Stratford or Bampton could be a great accommodation consideration when exploring locations outside London. Show more
Can you take day-trips to places outside London to see autumn foliage?
Taking day-trips to places outside London to view fall foliage is highly recommended. The Cotswolds, located just two hours from London, provides visitors with a picturesque English country experience during the fall. You can sign up for tours to castles like Stratford or Warwick, visit authentic villages like Bampton, Bibury, or Bourton-on-the-Water, and savor scenic views of England's autumnal countryside. Show more
