Perfect destinations for when summer turns to autumn
September holidays are getting more popular thanks to cooler weather and fewer crowds. Discover the best UK destinations to visit in early autumn.
Published: Wednesday, 1 July 2026
September holidays are getting more popular thanks to cooler weather and fewer crowds. Discover the best UK destinations to visit in early autumn.
Published: Wednesday, 1 July 2026
September holidays are surging in popularity according to travel organisation ABTA. They put it down to (hopefully!) pleasant weather and the chance to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling and hiking. So, if you’re thinking of taking a September break it makes sense to get ahead and book. But where are the best places to go in the summer/autumn crossover? Here are a few ideas…
The Lake District is sheer loveliness at any time of year, but September’s early autumn colours make it simply stunning. Although you can never completely rely on it, the weather should be mild and pleasant for hiking. And best of all, with the kids back at school and the summer visitors gone home, you can enjoy the landscape and the lakeside towns without the crowds.
What to do in the Lake District in September: Hit the hiking and walking trails – they should be quieter at this time of year. 13th-century Muncaster Castle is well worth exploring: don’t miss the flying displays at its Hawk & Owl Centre. And if you take your Lake District break early in the month, you can catch country shows at Loweswater and Westmorland
Some would say that September is the best time to see the Highlands in all its glory. The crowds have gone home, the heather is blooming and the days are still long. And of course, there are fewer pesky midges to deal with, meaning early evening barbecues, hikes or bike rides could be on the holiday agenda.
What to do in the Highlands in September: The start of autumn is foodie heaven in the Highlands. Crab and mussels are at their fattest, venison is coming into season, and autumn fruit is abundant. Experience the bounty at the area’s numerous food festivals. When you’re not feasting on the food or exploring the landscape, pay a visit to Dunstaffnage Castle, an impressive fortress perched on a rock.
Where to stay: Best Western The Crianlarich Hotel
The beach and town crowds are thinning out, the sea is still warm, and Newquay’s September swells are perfect for surfing – just a few reasons why visiting Cornwall at the start of autumn is a treat not to be missed.
What to do in Cornwall in September: Take advantage of the late season and explore Cornwall’s picturesque towns with less jostling for space. St Ives holds a two-week arts festival in the middle of the month with music, comedy, poetry, walks and more. See the autumn colours begin to appear at the Eden Project, and soak up the atmosphere at Tintagel, where King Aruthur is said to have been born.
Where to stay: Best Western Fowey Valley
The sea is warm enough for wild swimming and perfect for water sports. The wildlife is abundant and the beaches wonderfully crowd-free. This is also the time of year when many beaches remove their restrictions on dogs, so you can enjoy exploring with your pet.
What to do in Pembrokeshire in September: September is seal spotting season – you should be able to see the seal pups when you take a walk along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path or a boat trip to see the colonies. It’s also a lovely time of year to visit St Davids, the UK’s smallest city, with its stunning cathedral and beautiful beaches. And if you’re lucky, the skies will be clear enough at night to do a spot of stargazing.
Where to stay: Best Western Lamphey Court Hotel & Spa
Early autumn isn’t just about the countryside – September is also an ideal time to explore some of the UK’s most popular cities. In York, you can explore the Minster and the Shambles without the crowds and get brilliant views of the city from Clifford’s Tower.
What to do in York in September: Visiting towards the end of the month? Then you have to hit the York Food & Drink Festival. Producers will be selling their wares, there’ll be delicious street food to eat, and celebrity chefs will be showing how they whip up their dishes. To experience the city from a different vantage point, take a cruise along the River Ouse.
Where to stay: York Pavilion Hotel, BW Signature Collection by Best Western
