There’s certainly no shortage of amazing destinations to visit in summer. But what if you are planning an autumn getaway instead? It may be because that’s when your time off is or because you simply can’t stand the heat. Either way, the perfect destination for a fall trip may be closer than you think! London is just the perfect place to enjoy a myriad of pubs, soak in the culture at some of the most famous museums worldwide, wander through vibrant markets, and admire the foliage.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best activities to make the most of your trip to London this autumn. Let’s dive in!
Ride A Classic Double-Decker Bus Through The City
Did you know that one of the best ways to see London is on board one of the classic red double-decker buses? And we don’t mean one of those hop-on-hop-off tours: we mean the real, standard red buses that travel through the city around the clock!
Some of the best routes for sightseeing include Lines 9, 19, and 22, which travel through some of the most famous landmarks and offer stunning views over the Thames and the city’s skyline. The best thing? You only need to pay the price for a regular tick – but try to secure an upper-deck seat for the best views!
Drop Your Luggage And Explore On A Spontaneous Day Trip
If you are only planning to visit London for a day or you have a few hours between your hotel’s check out time and your next destination, just drop your luggage and start exploring!
These services are conveniently scattered across the city, so that you can drop off and pick up your belongings anywhere in the city. For instance, luggage storage near Paddington Station lets you wander through Little Venice, admire the tranquil canal boats, or easily access Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, and all without your bags in tow! Look for the best drop off point near you and let London surprise you!
Stroll Through London’s Autumn Parks And Gardens
London is one of the best destinations if you are after tranquil walks in the park or stunning foliage views! Just look for some of the best parks to explore, including Greenwich and St James’, grab a steaming cup of coffee, and let yourself wonder. You can be sure to find plenty of stunning spots for photos, benches to read your favourite book, or just enjoy some people watching! For a more mindful experience, put your phone away, pick up a paper map, and enjoy the quiet for a while!
Browse Art And Food At A Weekend Street Market
No city equals London in terms of food and street markets! Whether you are after antiques, crafts, food, or art, London markets truly have it all. For food lovers, some of the best spots include Borough Market for local cuisine and exotic flavours, Portobello Road Market for fresh fruit and vegetables, or Maltby Street Market for street food. If you are more into antiques or vintage finds, you can’t miss a stop in Notting Hill and Brick Lane. Here, you can find fantastic vintage markets and plenty of opportunities for photos!
Take A Thames River Cruise To Catch The Autumn Colors
Another amazing way to enjoy the beauty of London in autumn is on board a river cruise on the Thames. All you’ll need to do is find the right provider and be ready at the right time. Then, you can enjoy the journey through some of the most impressive landmarks the city has to offer, including Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the iconic London Eye.
A pro tip? Consider enjoying your cruise at sunset to see the city shimmering in light!
Enjoy Live Music Or Theater In The West End
Autumn can be just the perfect season to enjoy London, but the weather can be unpredictable. You may enjoy chilly mornings, warmer afternoons, and cold evenings. You should be prepared for anything that London weather may throw at you, especially rain. And, if you are dealing with a rainy day, what’s better than retreating to one of London’s most famous theaters to enjoy a world-class performance? You certainly won’t be short on choice! From classic musicals like The Lion King and Les Misérables to exciting concerts, the choice is truly endless!
Join A Seasonal Guided Ghost Walk After Dark
If you are up for exploring an entirely different side of London, there’s nothing better than taking a guided ghost tour after dark. This is perfect if your trip also coincides with autumn celebrations such as Guy Fawkes or Halloween!
Guided ghost walks usually last around 1 to 2 hours and take you through some of London’s oldest neighborhoods and historical sites. Your guide will take you through fantastic stories about hauntings, local legends, and famous crimes. Some tours include a walk past landmarks like the Tower of London, old cemeteries, and hidden alleyways. Remember though, it’s a walking tour and weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress for the weather!
Indulge In Hearty British Comfort Food At A Historic Pub
The best way to soak in the real atmosphere of London is to visit some of its best or most historic pubs. These are certainly not hard to find, and you can be sure to enjoy anything from British classics, such as fish and chips, to local ales and spirits. Look up some of the best pubs in your area and secure a spot by the fire. You won’t be sorry!
Start Planning Your Itinerary Today!
Above we’ve looked at just some of the few things you can enjoy in London during autumn. Of course, everyone is different, but with some planning and willingness to explore, this getaway can turn into the best trip for the year! Just make sure to dress for the weather, wear comfy shoes, and take advantage of the many services and activities the city has to offer. Exploring autonomously is easier than you’d think!