If you’ve been reading me for a while… you know how much I love autumn. Early autumn is one of the best times to explore the UK. The summer crowds are thinning, the air turns crisp without being cold, and the landscapes begin to shift into a golden palette and a very cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for peaceful countryside, quirky cultural stops or an active weekend on the water, these five weekend destinations are perfect for two days autumny UK escapes.
This is a co-creative article
Countryside calm in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds might be a classic, but it’s well worth revisiting in early autumn. The summer crowds have dispersed, making its honey-coloured villages and leafy lanes even more inviting. September brings harvest season, and you’ll find orchards, farm shops and country fairs throughout the region.
Take a scenic walk along the Windrush Valley, or explore market towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden. The countryside here is great for slow travel: antique browsing, quiet tea shops, and soaking up the last warm days of the year with a countryside view.
Embrace slow life in Somerset
If your ideal weekend includes fresh air, quiet walks and time to unwind, Somerset is the ideal place to go. With rolling hills, cider orchards, and charming villages, it’s a quaint spot for you and your family to explore.
The Quantock Hills and Mendip Hills are both designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering great routes for walking, cycling and even horse riding. For something a little different, visit Wells, the smallest city in England, where you’ll find a magnificent cathedral and moated Bishop’s Palace. Nearby Glastonbury has a slightly more mystical feel, with its famous Tor and historic abbey ruins.
Planning a trip with your pet? You’ll find fantastic dog friendly cottages in Somerset that offer spacious areas for you and your four-legged friend. You’ll find some fantastic properties, especially in the countryside surrounding Bruton and Frome, both known for independent galleries and seasonal markets.
Try a narrowboat adventure in Staffordshire
Staffordshire might not be the first place that springs to mind for a weekend away, but it’s one of the best regions for a relaxing, water-based escape. A Staffordshire narrowboat holiday is a great way to slow down and see a different side of the Midlands, cruising past old canal locks, peaceful towpaths and the occasional country pub.
The Caldon and Trent & Mersey Canals are good places to start. If you’re into industrial heritage, the area is home to the Potteries, Stoke-on-Trent’s collection of historic ceramic towns, where you can try your hand at making your own pottery or learn about the area’s role in shaping British design.
Off the boat, explore Cannock Chase for woodland walks or Alton for a bit of thrills if you’re travelling with teens.
Culture and coastline in East Sussex
East Sussex offers a great blend of nature and culture for a weekend break. Spend Saturday exploring the coastal trails of the Seven Sisters or soaking up the art scene in Hastings and Bexhill-on-Sea. Beachy Head is a must-visit for dramatic sea views.
Inland, Lewes is a good base for exploring. This historic market town is known for its castle ruins, cobbled streets, and independent bookshops. If you’re travelling mid-September, keep an eye out for local harvest festivals and food markets, Sussex is known for its vineyards and cheese!
Castles and countryside in Northumberland
For a quieter, wilder escape, Northumberland is hard to beat. The landscapes here are open, vast and striking, especially under the early autumn light. Start with a walk along Hadrian’s Wall, or head to the coast for a visit to Bamburgh Castle, perched dramatically above the beach.
Lindisfarne (Holy Island) is another highlight, with tidal causeway access and centuries of religious history. Just make sure to check tide times. Inland, the Cheviot Hills and Northumberland National Park offer great hiking with fewer crowds than more southerly destinations.
This part of England is also known for its dark skies. If you’re staying overnight, you might catch the Milky Way!
A weekend away doesn’t have to mean jumping on a plane or packing in a long list of sights. Sometimes, a 48-hour escape somewhere a little quieter, whether it’s a Staffordshire narrowboat holiday or exploring fantastic dog-friendly cottages in Somerset, is exactly what you need. September offers the perfect mix of calm and colour across the UK. Choose your route, pack your bag, and hit the road!