As the leaves turn golden and temperatures begin to drop, Brits are increasingly swapping summer holidays for autumn escapes closer to home.
New research has revealed Britain’s ten favourite destinations for autumn scenery, with a picturesque woodland in Hampshire beating the Scottish Highlands, Lake District and Snowdonia to take the top spot.
The study, commissioned by Travelodge, found that almost three quarters (73 per cent) of Brits are planning an autumn escape this year, as the North American trend of ‘leaf peeping’ – travelling to admire and photograph the changing colours of the leaves – gains popularity in the UK.
And it seems Britain has plenty to offer. Four in five adults (82 per cent) believe the UK is home to some of the world’s most beautiful autumn scenery, while 58 per cent would rather experience the season at home than travel abroad.
Autumn is also becoming an increasingly popular time for a staycation, with 43 per cent saying they are more likely to book an autumn break than they were three years ago.
The research, which surveyed 2,000 UK adults, also suggests travellers are looking beyond the usual tourist hotspots. More than four in ten (43 per cent) said they would rather discover a lesser-known destination than visit somewhere popular.
So, where are the best places in Britain to enjoy the changing seasons?
Britain’s 10 best autumn escapes
1. Bolderwood, New Forest, Hampshire
Taking the top spot is Bolderwood, a picturesque woodland in the heart of Hampshire’s New Forest National Park.
Located near Lyndhurst, Bolderwood is known for its ancient trees, winding forest trails and peaceful surroundings, which become particularly spectacular during the autumn months.
The woodland is home to oak, beech and sweet chestnut trees, which transform into a patchwork of deep reds, burnt oranges and golden yellows as the seasons change.
Visitors can explore a network of scenic walking routes, enjoy a picnic among the trees or stop at the popular deer viewing platform, where there’s a chance to spot the forest’s resident fallow deer.
With its combination of wildlife, ancient woodland and accessible walking trails, Bolderwood offers an autumn escape within easy reach of Southampton, Bournemouth and the wider south of England.
2. Loch an Eilein, Scottish Highlands
Tucked away in the Rothiemurchus Forest near Aviemore, Loch an Eilein is one of the most picturesque spots in Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park.
The freshwater loch is famous for its ruined island castle, which sits surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine forest and the dramatic mountains of the Scottish Highlands.
During autumn, golden birch trees and colourful woodland frame the water, creating spectacular reflections on calm days.
A circular walking route around the loch offers views of the castle, surrounding forest and mountains, making it a popular destination for walkers, photographers and anyone seeking a peaceful Highland escape.
3. Allen Banks, Northumberland
Northumberland’s Allen Banks and Staward Gorge takes third place, offering a dramatic combination of ancient woodland, riverside scenery and winding countryside trails.
Located near Bardon Mill, not far from Hadrian’s Wall, the National Trust-managed woodland follows the steep-sided valley of the River Allen.
In autumn, its towering beech and oak trees create a canopy of gold and copper above the woodland paths, while fallen leaves carpet the forest floor.
Visitors can explore a network of walking trails, cross the river and enjoy views across the wooded gorge.
It’s a particularly attractive destination for those looking to discover a quieter side of Northumberland beyond its famous castles and coastline.
4. Coed y Brenin, Eryri (Snowdonia), North Wales
Set among the mountains of Eryri National Park, Coed y Brenin Forest Park is one of North Wales’s most scenic destinations for an autumn adventure.
Located near Dolgellau in Gwynedd, the forest is known for its extensive walking and mountain biking trails, dramatic waterfalls and views across the surrounding mountains.
During autumn, the landscape comes alive with colour as native broadleaf trees turn golden against the darker evergreen forest and rugged mountain backdrop.
Visitors can follow trails through the woodland, discover cascading waterfalls and enjoy panoramic views across the Mawddach valley.
The combination of mountain scenery, forest walks and outdoor activities makes Coed y Brenin an appealing choice for an active autumn getaway.
5. Sheffield Park & Garden, East Sussex
Sharing fourth place is Sheffield Park & Garden, a historic landscape garden near Uckfield in East Sussex, renowned for its spectacular autumn colours.
Managed by the National Trust, the garden is home to an impressive collection of trees and shrubs, including Japanese maples and acers that turn brilliant shades of crimson, orange and gold.
Its four lakes are a particular highlight, reflecting the vibrant foliage and creating some of the most striking autumn scenes in southern England.
With landscaped walking routes, historic gardens and picturesque waterside views, Sheffield Park is a popular choice for an autumn day trip from London and across the South East.
6. Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands
Often described as one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens, Glen Affric is a spectacular Highland landscape of ancient pinewoods, freshwater lochs and towering mountains.
Situated near the village of Cannich, west of Loch Ness, the glen is home to one of Scotland’s most important areas of native Caledonian pine forest.
In autumn, golden birch trees contrast with dark green pines, while the surrounding hills and tranquil waters provide a dramatic backdrop for scenic walks.
Visitors can explore woodland trails, follow routes around Loch Affric and enjoy views of the rugged Highland landscape.
For those seeking a more remote autumn escape, Glen Affric offers a chance to experience some of Scotland’s most impressive natural scenery away from the busier tourist routes.
7. Lanhydrock Estate, Cornwall
Cornwall may be best known for its beaches and seaside towns, but Lanhydrock Estate near Bodmin proves the county has plenty to offer once summer is over.
The historic National Trust estate combines an impressive Victorian country house with formal gardens, extensive parkland and miles of woodland trails.
During autumn, the estate’s beech-lined avenues and mature trees turn rich shades of gold, amber and orange, creating a colourful setting for countryside walks.
Visitors can explore the gardens, discover the surrounding woodland or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the estate’s picturesque grounds.
It’s an ideal option for those looking to experience a different side of Cornwall beyond its famous coastline.
8. Loughrigg Tarn and Elterwater, Lake District, Cumbria
Few places capture the beauty of the British countryside in autumn quite like the Lake District.
Loughrigg Tarn and nearby Elterwater, situated between Ambleside and Grasmere in Cumbria, offer some of the national park’s most picturesque seasonal scenery.
Surrounded by rolling fells, woodland and traditional Lakeland villages, the area’s peaceful lakes and tarns reflect the changing colours of the trees and surrounding hills.
Autumn walkers can enjoy routes around Loughrigg Tarn, explore the paths linking Elterwater with Skelwith Bridge or venture further into the surrounding fells for panoramic views.
With cosy country pubs and charming villages nearby, it’s an attractive destination for a relaxing autumn weekend in the Lake District.
9. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
Famous for its links to the legend of Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest is also one of England’s most atmospheric places for an autumn woodland walk.
Located near Edwinstowe in Nottinghamshire, the ancient forest is home to hundreds of veteran oak trees, including the legendary Major Oak.
As autumn arrives, the woodland’s towering trees turn shades of gold and brown, while the forest floor becomes covered in fallen leaves.
Visitors can explore walking trails through the historic woodland, discover its remarkable ancient trees and learn more about the forest’s wildlife and folklore.
Combining natural beauty with centuries of history, Sherwood Forest offers a distinctive autumn escape in the heart of the Midlands.
10. Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire
Rounding off the top ten is Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, near Tetbury in Gloucestershire.
Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, Westonbirt is home to an internationally important collection of trees and shrubs from around the world and is widely celebrated for its autumn colour.
Its Japanese maples and acers are among the main attractions, turning spectacular shades of fiery red, orange and yellow as the seasons change.
Visitors can explore miles of paths through the arboretum’s landscaped grounds and Silk Wood, discovering colourful tree collections and peaceful woodland scenery along the way.
For anyone looking to experience an impressive display of autumn foliage, Westonbirt is one of Gloucestershire’s standout seasonal attractions.
Why Brits are choosing autumn staycations
The growing popularity of autumn getaways appears to be driven by more than just the scenery.
According to the Travelodge research, almost half of Brits (48 per cent) say enjoying autumn colours and landscapes is their main reason for taking a seasonal escape.
Countryside walks are another major draw, cited by 38 per cent, while almost a third (31 per cent) appreciate the opportunity to visit destinations with fewer tourists.
Cost is also playing a role, with one in four (24 per cent) pointing to better-value hotel prices compared with the peak summer season.
And when it comes to the perfect autumn day, simple pleasures are proving the most popular.
More than a third (36 per cent) would choose a woodland walk, while one in five (20 per cent) favour a country pub lunch and one in ten (10 per cent) prefer a scenic drive.
The rise of autumn travel is also being fuelled by photography, with three quarters of Brits (75 per cent) saying they have taken pictures specifically to capture autumn colours or scenery.
A Travelodge spokesperson said: “It appears the North American phenomenon of travelling to view the changing colours has officially arrived in the UK, with many of us choosing to explore local autumn landscapes rather than heading abroad.
“Our research shows a real shift towards discovering hidden gems off the beaten track, making autumn an increasingly important season for regional travel.”
With destinations spanning ancient forests, mountain landscapes, tranquil lakes and historic gardens, the findings suggest Brits don’t need to travel far to experience spectacular autumn scenery.
And with fewer crowds and colourful landscapes to explore, autumn is proving an increasingly appealing time to rediscover the British countryside.