A Fall Ramble: Lesser-Known Tips & Hidden Gems for a Golden British Escape
Walking amidst leaves on a beautiful fall day in Great Britain.
1. The Isle of Skye
Skye is majestic in fall. Its dramatic landscapes, such as the Cullins mountains and the otherworldly Quirang, shine in the fall light. Hillsides turn a brilliant rust red colour as the bracken changes with the season, contrasting the dark, brooding mountains. This is the perfect time to enjoy bracing walks or hikes or to ‘coorie’ in (scottish for nestling, snuggling and getting cozy, often after being outdoors) by the fire with a hot chocolate, a good book and maybe even a wee dram of whiskey!
For something truly special, we recommend a stay at the world-renowned Three Chimneys and The House Over By, in Colbost, for incredible food in a wonderfully remote setting, and perhaps a distillery tour and tasting at the classic Talisker or the newer, yet still brilliant, Torabhaig.
A close-up of The Three Chimneys, one of our favorite establishments on the Isle of Skye.
2. The Lake District, Cumbria
The ethereal quality to the Lake District in the Fall makes this time of year extra special. Fiery fell bracken reflects in the still, dark waters of the lakes. Cosy pubs with roaring fires welcome you in after a day's exploring. It’s the perfect time for long walks, a boat trip, some wild swimming or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere without the summer crowds.
Take in the fresh air with a walk around Derwentwater, tackle the walk up to Aira Force waterfall, framed by golden trees, or visit Beatrix Potter's Hill Top farm, where Peter Rabbit was created.
Slow down and autumn by the serene waters of the Lake District in Cumbria.
3. Richmond Park, London
In Fall, London's largest Royal Park, Richmond Park, transforms into a breathtaking landscape of russet and gold. Some of the park’s oaks are up to 800 years old! The chestnut trees shed their nuts, creating a food source for the park’s wild red and fallow deer. During the fall rut, you might witness some rather dramatic displays from the deer (from a safe distance, of course!) or you may even encounter the elusive white deer, supposedly symbols of good luck.
The sweeping views from King Henry's Mound, over St Paul’s Cathedral, especially at sunrise or sunset, are simply magical. After exploring the park, stop for a cuppa and a slice of cake at Pembroke Lodge, which was rather grandly expanded from a humble molecatcher's cottage in 1787, for the Countess of Pembroke.
Scenic fall views from Richmond Park in London.
4. The Cotswolds
The true fall magic of the Cotswolds is found in its quieter, lesser known corners. Discover sleepy hamlets, such as Guiting Power and Stanton, where the only sound is the crunch of leaves underfoot and the occasional hiker or horse. This is the place for aimless driving, exploring hidden valleys or castles, and finding a pub full of locals like The Hidden Bottom in Guiting Power.
Visit Painswick, the "Queen of the Cotswolds," and count the legendary 99 yew trees in the churchyard. Follow in the footsteps of author Laurie Lee with a hike through the gorgeous Slad Valley (the setting for Cider with Rosie), and reward yourself with a fabulous Sunday lunch at the amazing Woolpack Inn. In Stow-on-the-Wold, you can enjoy an afternoon tea at Lucy's Tea Room, before seeking out the ancient church door that was said to be Tolkien's inspiration for the Doors of Durin in Lord of the Rings. For stunning views, climb to the top of Broadway Tower, where you can see for miles across the blazing fall canopy and the ‘jewel of the Cotswolds’ village of Broadway below.
Explore the winding alleys and sleepy hamlets of Guiting Power in the Cotswolds.
Fall lane enroute to Stanton.
5. Suffolk
Suffolk offers a more gentle, subtle beauty, with big skies, rolling countryside, ancient woodlands and a beautiful coastline. The coastal heathlands turn stunning shades of purple and bronze in the Fall, and the quiet medieval "wool towns," with their crooked timber-framed houses, such as Lavenham (one of GB’s best preserved medieval towns), are a joy to explore without the crowds.
Explore Dedham Vale in "Constable Country" to see the landscapes that inspired the great painter. Head to the coast for a bracing walk across Dunwich Heath and beach, famous for its bird life, followed by a pint of Adnams at the wonderful, 600-year-old Bell Inn in Walberswick.
Fall foliage in Great Britain.
6. Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Straddling the border between England and Wales, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offer an incredible display of fall colour. This ancient woodland, with its mix of deciduous and evergreen trees ensures a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. It's a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of walking and cycling trails.
Make sure you enjoy the dramatic views at Symonds Yat Rock or explore the magical Puzzlewood (said to be an inspiration for Tolkien). Enjoy a canoe trip down the River Wye, or have a lovely meander through nearby Hay-on-Wye, the world's first book town and the home of a world renowned annual book festival.
7. North Yorkshire
In the fall, "God's Own County’s" vast, heather-clad North York Moors turn a deep bronze, while the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales are patched with gold and red. Ancient woodlands along riverbanks provide a kaleidoscope of colour, perfect for a crisp fall walk. Visit the county's magnificent abbey ruins, like Fountains Abbey, where the crumbling stone arches are beautifully framed by fiery foliage.
Explore Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden, take a drive through the Yorkshire Dales National Park, or for a truly memorable experience, stay and have dinner and stay at The Tan Hill Inn, Britain's highest pub, for some amazing panoramas all round.
Interior of a cosy pub.
Contact us for your personalized Fall GB itinerary.
You can schedule a call on our website or email us at enquiries@insidestortytravel.com. Then pack your layers and walking boots and head to the UK for your perfect fall experience, you won’t be disappointed.
