As summer comes to a close, we find ourselves happily trading beaches and bikinis for centuries-old cities prone to rainy weather. Fall is, after all, a time for foliage and knit sweaters, mugs of hot tea complemented by fresh biscuits from a bakery that’s been around for decades — and the travel destinations we crave usually reflect that.
The key factors for a quintessential fall trip include the following: Historic buildings, overcast weather, and splashes of green, orange, crimson, and yellow as a backdrop to every step. Thankfully, the UK fits those criteria to a T.
It’s time to welcome in the best season of the year. (Photo Credit: @kimptonfitzroy)
Spoiler alert — the United Kingdom is even better in the fall. (Photo Credit: George McVeigh)
If you’re in the thick of planning your fall adventure, we are recommending our favorite United Kingdom destinations for a cozy trip packed with art, culture, and thoughtful hotels to boot. We promise the foliage alone is worth the flight.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is an autumnal dream, with foliage and fog and an overlooking castle that make this city feel permanently stuck in spooky season (we mean that as a sincere compliment). Its medieval Old Town makes this a treat for any history buff, and narrow streets peppered with classic pubs are great for solo travelers, couples, or large friend groups alike.
Say hello to Edinburgh — it’s time to explore. (Photo Credit: Kirsten Drew)
There’s nothing quite like visiting an old Scottish city amidst a chill in the air. (Photo Credit: Micheile Henderson)
Our Highlights:
Any Ediburgh itinerary should begin on Royal Mile, a bustling, whimsical strip packed with colorful shops and eateries. Visit Edinburgh Castle, hike the ancient volcano of Arthur’s Seat, and explore the city’s foodie scene.
End the evening with an eight-course tasting menu at Aizle where everything from sourdough to kombucha is made in-house.
Where to stay: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel
Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow is known as “The Friendly City” for its welcoming community, making it a shoe-in for solo travelers looking to make lifelong friendships abroad. Plus, between the museums, art galleries, and live gigs (it was named a UNESCO City of Music in 2008), there’s something fun to fill up every second of your time.
The Scottish highlands are worth a day trip when visiting Glasgow in the fall. (Photo Credit: Sam Bark)
The beauty of Scotland is actually otherworldly. (Photo Credit: Laura Chouette)
Our Highlights:
Glasgow is also an excellent home base for day trips to the likes of the Scottish highlands and Loch Ness. Fun fact: Loch Ness contains more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined, making it the most voluminous (and, arguably, the most beautiful) lake in the United Kingdom.
After a day spent sightseeing, unwind at the salt, steam, and snow rooms or choose a tailored treatment with locally-sourced products at the Spa at Blythswood Square.
Where to stay: Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa
Manchester, England
Albert Square and Manchester Liverpool Road railway station (opened in 1830!) are a history lover’s dream and a nod to the city’s industrial roots. Plus, you’ll be hard-pressed to walk the streets of Manchester without hearing incredible music floating up from shops and pubs — always an excellent atmosphere for a night out.
When in Manchester, you can rest easy at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel. (Photo Credit: @kimptonfitzroy)
Grey skies, a rainy cab ride — don’t threaten us with a good time. (Photo Credit: Elvis Ray)
Our Highlights:
There are plenty of day trips that take you to the striking North Wales countryside, and don’t miss a football match at the Old Trafford and Etihad Stadiums. Or perhaps you’ve watched the docuseries about the region’s most beloved football team — take an hour to wind your way through the foliage of the Welsh countryside to catch a match at the new-and-improved, Wrexham football stadium.
Back in Manchester, end the night with a cocktail (or mocktail!) at the inviting Winter Garden where a wide variety of gins await.
Where to stay: Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
London, England
Big Ben, Hyde Park, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey — the list of monuments lining London’s streets are overwhelming even without the crowds. That’s why we recommend a fall trip, when summer travels are winding down but you’re not in the full thrust of the December holidays. Less crowds and cooler weather? Sign us up.
Welcome to London. (Photo Credit: @elidatheresa)
London in the fall is a uniquely special experience — don’t miss it. (Photo Credit: Anna Claire Schellenberg)
Our Highlights:
Make a list of your favorite London-based films and visit one shooting location from each — there’s nothing quite like bringing to life the films and shows you’ve ever only seen through a screen.
Walk through art murals at Brick Lane, shop vintage at Shoreditch, and stroll through the colorful alleyway of Neal’s Yard. And you can’t leave the UK without having enjoyed a proper English breakfast — fuel your day with at Burr & Co, a charming London coffeehouse.
Where to stay: Kimpton Fitzroy London
