London is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, but there’s something extra special about autumn in the British capital. As temperatures cool, the city’s parks turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. The cooler weather also makes strolling London’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks a little more comfortable than during the summer months. Of course, autumn in London also means the occasional rainy afternoon, but that’s part of the experience. Enjoy the fall season by wandering through centuries-old cemeteries or having traditional afternoon tea. Here are eight of the best things to do in London during the fall months.
Admire the Fall Foliage in Hyde Park
London has loads of green spaces, and Hyde Park is one of the best places to appreciate the changing seasons. The 350-acre park is home to thousands of trees, many of which turn beautiful shades of yellow and orange in autumn. Visitors can walk along the Serpentine or relax on a bench as the leaves fall. The park also has several famous landmarks, including the Diana Memorial Fountain and Speakers’ Corner. It’s a wonderful place to be on a crisp October afternoon.
Explore the Hauntingly Beautiful Highgate Cemetery
If you’re looking for an activity that leans into the spooky side of autumn, Highgate Cemetery is an excellent choice. Established in 1839, this Victorian cemetery is famous for its elaborate tombs, Gothic architecture, and overgrown pathways. The West Cemetery is the most atmospheric, known for the Egyptian Avenue, Circle of Lebanon, and family mausoleums. During fall, dead leaves and foggy mornings make the cemetery look like something out of an eerie horror movie. Highgate is also the final resting place of several famous people, including Karl Marx. Guided tours tell of the cemetery’s history and some of its more unusual stories.
Spend a Rainy Afternoon at the British Museum
Rainy days are practically expected in London, and fortunately, the city has some of the world’s best indoor attractions. The British Museum offers visitors the opportunity to see thousands of years of human history within one building. Its enormous collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone. The building itself is also beautiful, especially the glass-roofed Great Court. General admission to the permanent collection is free, making it even better for travelers on a budget. You could easily spend an entire afternoon here without seeing everything.
Enjoy a Traditional Afternoon Tea
Nothing feels more quintessentially British than afternoon tea, and cooler fall weather makes us want to get our cuppa on. All over London, historic hotels and pretty tearooms serve finger sandwiches, baked scones, and flaky pastries. Some of the most famous places to have tea include The Ritz, Claridge’s, and Fortnum & Mason. Guests choose from an assortment of teas, served in beautiful china teapots. While afternoon tea is available year-round, there’s something especially comforting about sitting inside a cozy tearoom while the autumn rain falls outside.
Wander Through Hampstead Heath
For travelers who want to experience London’s wilder side, Hampstead Heath is one of the city’s best spots. Unlike the perfectly manicured lawns of some London parks, this green space is made up of woodlands, meadows, ponds, and winding walking trails. During autumn, the trees turn vibrant shades of gold and deep red, making it a popular place for long walks. Visitors can climb Parliament Hill for views of the London skyline, including some of the city’s most iconic buildings. The surrounding Hampstead neighborhood is super charming, with historic houses, mom and pop shops, and cozy pubs.
Browse the Shops and Markets of Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of London’s liveliest neighborhoods. Its famous market building is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and shops. The nearby piazza features talented street performers. Visitors can shop for handmade gifts, sample sweets, or stop for a warm drink at one of the cafes. The covered market areas are convenient when the rain begins to fall. The streets are packed with historic architecture and charming storefronts, making this area really pretty.
Take an Autumn Walk Along the Thames
Walking along the River Thames is one of the best ways to appreciate London’s landmarks, especially during the cooler fall months. The South Bank has a scenic pedestrian route that goes past buildings like the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, and Tate Modern. Visitors can spot Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the many historic bridges. Autumn sunsets can be stunning, throwing a golden glow across the river. There are also plenty of cafes and pubs where tourists can warm up for a bit. Plan your stroll for late afternoon as the city’s lights begin to glow along the waterfront.
Get Cozy in a Historic London Pub
London’s historic pubs are inviting when temperatures begin to fall. Many feature dark wooden interiors, antique furniture, and fireplaces that create the perfect fall atmosphere. Some establishments have been open for centuries, giving visitors a little piece of history with their beer. The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead, for example, dates back to the 16th century and is mentioned in Charles Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers. Traditional pub meals, including fish and chips, are definitely worth trying. Overall, a cozy London pub is hard to beat any day of the week.