Autumn in London: Sunday Roasts, Autumn Walks, Bookshops & More (UPDATED for 2026)
Spending autumn in London? Here’s my 2026 guide to the best things to do in London in autumn, from golden-leaf walks, cosy bookshops and London neighbourhoods to Halloween at Kew, Bonfire Night, autumn festivals and easy day trips. From an autumn in London lover!
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Ahh, Autumn in London. Crunchy leaves, crisp mornings (and that dewy grass smell). From Bonfire Night to Halloween, London is the place to be.
Autumn in London is unbiasedly my favourite. Sorry, London in summer lovers.
The air gets crisper, the streets start lining themselves with golden leaves and, dare I say, it’s also one of the most romantic times of the year in the city.
Satisfying the compulsive planner in me, I’ve spent years stacking my autumn London list to the brim, and now, I’m going to share it with you!
If you’re spending any time at all in London this autumn, you’re a lucky one, my friend. Here’s how to spend it right.
Shall we?
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
Want Me to Plan Your Autumn in London Days for You?
My Autumn in London Itinerary Bundle gives you 5 custom autumn days you can’t find anywhere else, plus downloadable Google Maps with carefully planned routes, so you can just pick one out and explore.
Autumn in London At A Glance
Best for: golden-leaf walks, cosy pubs, bookshops, Halloween, Bonfire Night, Sunday roasts and neighbourhood days.
Best time for autumn colour: usually late October into early November, although London’s leaves change with the weather every year.
What to book ahead: Halloween at Kew, Dark Arts at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Frieze London, popular Bonfire Night displays and any restaurants or afternoon teas you’ve got your heart set on.
Where to stay: The Welbeck for Marylebone, Regent’s Park and easy central London access, or Oak & Poppy if you’d rather wake up near Hampstead Heath.
Festivals, Events & Things to Book Ahead
Autumn in London is full of activities and things to do for everyone; whether you’re a history buff, art fanatic, film person, book lover or just very committed to spooky season, there’s plenty going on. Here’s what I’d actually put in the diary for 2026.
1. Get Inside London During Open House Festival
The Open House Festival is one of those London events I think more people should definitely know about.
From 12–20 September 2026, you can go inside hundreds of buildings and spaces across all 33 London boroughs that are normally closed to the public, for free. Which is, frankly, very cool.
Some places are drop-in and some need advance booking, so have a browse through the programme before you go and make a little day of whichever neighbourhood you end up in.
2. Explore London Design Festival
Get a taste of London design at the London Design Festival and explore the work of international creatives that make the London we know and love.
For 2026, it runs from 12–20 September, with installations, exhibitions, talks and design districts across the city. A lot of the programme is free too, so have a look at what’s happening in the neighbourhood you’re already planning to explore.
3. Celebrate Black History Month in London
October is Black History Month in the UK, and London is one of the best places to spend it.
Celebrate the wonder and beauty of the African diaspora with exhibitions, talks, walks, food, music and cultural events across the city throughout October. I’d keep an eye on London City Hall, the Black Cultural Archives and local borough programmes for what’s happening while you’re here.
4. Catch the BFI London Film Festival
Kick off October with the stars and explore London’s film scene at the BFI London Film Festival.
The 70th edition runs from 7–18 October 2026, with premieres, documentaries, shorts, talks and screenings across London (and if there’s something you really want to see, don’t leave your tickets til the last minute).
5. Get Contemporary at Frieze London
Tucked in Regent’s Park, Frieze London is the place to be this October and a great way to experience the art culture in London.
Frieze London and Frieze Masters run from 14–18 October 2026. If contemporary art is your thing, have a look at the programme before you go and book ahead rather than hoping for the best on the day.
6. Get Groovy at Dance Umbrella
You got moves? Take part in London’s international dance festival (or just watch…like me) and celebrate choreography from around the world at Dance Umbrella.
For 2026, the festival runs across London and online from 7–27 October, with performances, talks, films, workshops and a few free events mixed in.
7. Wine & Dine at London Restaurant Festival
London in the fall screams cosy ambience and comfort food, so October’s London Restaurant Festival fits very nicely.
Restaurant hop, wine and dine and try special menus, neighbourhood events and one-off food experiences throughout the month. Personally I’d use it as an excuse to eat somewhere you’ve had saved for ages.
8. Feed Your Inner Bookworm at London Literature Festival
For the book lovers (holla), get your story fix at the London Literature Festival, featuring writers, readings, conversations and performances from around the world.
The 2026 festival runs from 20 October–1 November at the Southbank Centre, with Dua Lipa curating this year’s programme through her Service95 Book Club.
9. Costume Up for MCM Comic Con
You haven’t lived autumn in London until the Hulk joins your morning commute.
Watch the city come alive with your favourite superheroes (and villains) at MCM London Comic Con, or better yet, join in on the action. The autumn 2026 edition runs from 23–25 October at ExCeL London.
10. Do Halloween at Kew
If you’re keen on Halloween, Halloween at Kew is fantastic.
It’s a spooky illuminated trail through Kew Gardens with live actors, fire performers, legendary creatures and the Headless Horseman. A little scary, but fantastic.
For 2026 it runs from 16 October–1 November, and you can choose Daylight, Twilight or Moonlight sessions depending on how brave you’re feeling. Book this one ahead!
11. Discover the Dark Arts at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
Take in the Halloween revamp of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and see the darker side of the Harry Potter sets.
The Dark Arts feature runs from 16 September–8 November 2026, with floating pumpkins in the Great Hall, Death Eaters, Dementors and plenty of spooky bits throughout the tour. Get your tickets in advance.
12. Toast Up at Bonfire Night
Remember, remember the 5th of November.
Celebrate autumn in London and learn about the history of Bonfire Night, aka Guy Fawkes Night, then relax with friends under the fireworks.
For 2026, two of the big ones are the Alexandra Palace Fireworks & Drone Festival and Battersea Park Fireworks, both running across 7–8 November.
P.S. – If you’re after a free skyline view rather than an organised display, Parliament Hill is one of my favourite spots for seeing fireworks popping up across the city.
Autumn Walks & Where to See the London Leaves
Of course, you have to get in some autumn walks come the season. Just remember the best colour usually comes later in the season!
13. Soak in Fall Views on Hampstead Heath
One of the biggest green spaces in London, Hampstead Heath is made for an autumn wander. It’s also one of the highest points in London, so be sure to soak in the views of the city.
I’d save time for Hampstead Village too—Flask Walk, a coffee, a pub, the Hill Garden & Pergola and a completely unnecessary amount of wandering down pretty side streets.
Read More: 19 Amazing Things to Do in Hampstead, London
14. Gander Around Richmond Park
Take in autumn in London at one of London’s most famed parks, Richmond Park. Watch the leaves change colour and sneak peeks of the deer—if they’ll let you.
Autumn is also deer-rutting season, so admire them from a very respectful distance. For colour, Isabella Plantation is especially lovely, and Pembroke Lodge is an easy stop when you need tea and cake.
Read More: The Best Things to Do in Richmond, London
15. See Kew Gardens in Full Autumn Mode
Kew Gardens is gorgeous all year, but autumn gives you the glasshouses against reds, oranges and yellows, which is very hard to beat.
Give yourself a few hours rather than rushing it, then wander into Kew Village afterwards for coffee, food or a bookshop stop.
16. Beat the Crowds at Greenwich Park
The perfect place to get a full view of the city without too many crowds (usually). Come to Greenwich in autumn to catch the changing leaves and one of London’s best skyline views.
You can easily combine the park with Greenwich Market, the Old Royal Naval College and a wander by the Thames without spending half the day travelling across London.
17. Feel Serene Come Autumn at Holland Park
Between the Japanese koi pond and green space transformed with colour, Holland Park is an amazing spot to really see autumn in London in full action.
Kyoto Garden is especially lovely once the maples start turning, but go early if you can—it’s not exactly London’s best-kept secret anymore.
18. Perch on Primrose Hill & Wander Regent’s Park
The Broad Walk – Regent’s Park
As one of my favourite scenic autumn spots in London, I have to insist you make the trip to Primrose Hill. Pack a fall picnic if the weather behaves and take in the quite commanding autumn views of the city on top.
Then wander into Regent’s Park, especially The Broad Walk for some of the best autumn views in the city.
A few other autumn corners in London I love: Hyde Park, Kynance Mews, Brompton Cemetery, Battersea Park and Chelsea Embankment.
Want Your Autumn in London Days Planned for You?
If you want to make the most of London this autumn without spending hours planning where to go, I’ve put together 5 Autumn in London itineraries + a bonus Richmond itinerary, all based on my own favourite autumn days in the city and updated for 2026.
Cosy Autumn Things to Do in London
London in autumn screams cosy ambience and comfort food. This is thee season for bookshops, pubs, roasts, tea dates, theatre and finding somewhere warm to sit after you’ve been walking for four hours. On that note…
19. Do a London Bookshop Crawl
There’s something about autumn that makes buying another read feel mandatory.
I’d do a little bookshop crawl through Marylebone and Bloomsbury, especially Travellers’ Tales on Wimpole Street for travel books and Judd Books on Marchmont Street for new, used and wonderfully browseable finds.
For more ideas, I’ve also got a full guide to the best second-hand bookshops in London. Perfect for finding your cosy autumn read.
20. Have an Autumn Sunday Roast in London
Autumn Sunday Roast at The Sun Inn
If you just so happen to be in London on a Sunday, have a Sunday roast. Autumn is basically the season for it.
The Holly Bush and The Spaniards Inn will forever have my heart…and stomach. Both are in Hampstead, which means you can do an autumn walk around the Heath first and then reward yourself with Yorkshire puddings.
If you’re doing Highgate instead, The Red Lion & Sun is a lovely one to pair with Highgate Village or Highgate Wood. And over in Barnes, I’ve had a top-notch roast at The Sun Inn, right across from Barnes Green.
Sunday roast tables fill up fast, so this is one London meal I’d actually book. You can also read my famous London foods guide or my Hampstead guide for more of my London food and pub recommendations.
21. Fancy an Autumn Afternoon Tea?
Embrace the Brit in you, or if you’re British…embrace the you in you? And have a tea date at one of the best spots in the city.
I’ve had more afternoon teas in London than I can count, so use my best afternoon teas in London guide if you want my favourites, or my themed afternoon tea guide if you want something a bit more fun.
22. See an Autumn West End Show
Nothing says autumn in London like stepping over crunchy leaves on your way to a show.
Instead of me giving you ‘top theatre’ list that’ll be wrong in five minutes, check Official London Theatre for what’s currently playing, then turn it into an autumn evening with dinner or drinks before in Covent Garden (and see if anything’s new in my London theatre reviews!)
23. Explore Haunted London on a Ghost Tour
Break in the spooky season with a haunted (and comedic) ride around the city on The Ghost Bus Tours, or choose a walking ghost tour if you’d rather explore on foot.
It’s a very easy October night plan—fit with old London stories, dark streets and just enough spooky London.
London Neighbourhoods Made for an Autumn Day
With autumn leaves smothering the city, there’s never been a better time to explore some of London’s neighbourhoods.
I never find enough written about these amazing corners of London, but in the spirit of autumn, they deserve some attention.
24. Highgate
Highgate is one of my favourite North London places for an autumn day: think village streets, old pubs, Highgate Cemetery, Waterlow Park and easy access to Parkland Walk and Hampstead Heath.
P.S. – Here’s the best things to do in Highgate!
25. Crouch End
Crouch End is brilliant when you want independent cafés, local shops, bookshops and a leafy North London wander without Central London crowds.
Start around the Clock Tower, then let the neighbourhood do the rest.
26. Muswell Hill
Muswell Hill is tucked up around N10 with lovely cafés, independent shops, the Everyman cinema and Alexandra Palace right there for views.
Catch a fall showing at Everyman, have a hot cuppa, browse around and finish with an Ally Pally wander if the light is good.
P.S. – Here’s more of the best things to do in Muswell Hill.
Autumn Day Trips Out of London
Okay, sometimes you do have to get out of the Big Smoke to see more of the good stuff, especially during autumn in London.
The outskirts of London are always a bit more peaceful and quiet. With fewer crowds and tourists, a day trip is a wonderful fall breather from city life.
27. Catch the Fall Vibes of Bath
No secret to locals and tourists alike, Bath is one of my favourite easy city breaks from London, and autumn really suits it.
The honey-coloured Georgian streets, Roman Baths, independent bookshops and spa culture all work ridiculously well once the air gets colder.
If you’ve only got a day, follow my one day in Bath itinerary; if you can stay longer, even better.
28. Do an Oxford Day Trip
Autumn suits Oxford almost annoyingly well: old colleges, stone lanes, libraries, pubs and trees turning around some of the world’s most famous university buildings.
29. Wander Cambridge
Cambridge is another brilliant autumn day trip if you want university courtyards, the River Cam, independent cafés and a city that’s very easy to explore on foot.
Go punting if the weather behaves, and if it doesn’t, hordes of colleges, museums and bookshops will still be there for you.
30. Go Leaf-Peeping Outside London
If leaves are the entire point of the day, I’d look beyond the city too.
The Cotswolds are gorgeous in autumn, and Surrey’s Winkworth Arboretum is a great shout if autumn colour is the whole reason you’re going.
You can also browse my best day trips from London guide if you want more options.
Want Your Autumn in London Days Planned for You?
If you want to make the most of the season without figuring out every day yourself, I’ve made five custom Autumn in London itineraries you can’t find anywhere else.
Each one comes with a carefully planned route, perfect for exploring the city, and a downloadable Google Map to follow on your phone, so you can choose your day instantly and get exploring.
FAQs & Final Bits on Autumn in London
When is autumn in London?
Autumn in London is generally September, October and November. September can still be mild and fairly green, October feels much more seasonal leaves wise, and November is when London starts tipping towards Christmas (from mid-November usually, so come before then for all things autumn!).
When do the autumn leaves change in London?
Usually late October into early November is your best bet for stronger autumn colour, but it changes every year depending on temperature, rain and wind. On that note, if leaves are your priority, I wouldn’t plan for a September trip.
What is autumn weather like in London?
September can still be mild, October gets noticeably cooler and November is coat weather. Expect changeable days and some rain, but also plenty of crisp sunny mornings when London looks absolutely gorgeous. Temperatures are usually somewhere between 7–20°C (45–68°F).
What should I wear in London in autumn?
Layers, always. Trainers or comfortable boots, knitwear, a jacket you can actually walk in and something rain-friendly are the safest combination. By November, I’d bring a warmer coat too.
Does it rain a lot in London in autumn?
It rains, but not usually in a dramatic all-day-every-day way. A small umbrella or waterproof layer is enough for most London days, and I definitely wouldn’t let a grey forecast cancel your plans.
Is autumn a good time to visit London?
Yes. In my very biased opinion, it’s one of the best. You’ll get seasonal events, better walking weather than peak summer, cosy food and drink, Halloween, Bonfire Night and some genuinely beautiful parks once the leaves turn.
What are the best autumn walks in London?
My favourites are Hampstead Heath, Richmond Park, Kew Gardens, Greenwich Park, Holland Park, Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill. If you want the route already done for you, use my Autumn in London Itinerary Bundle.
Is Halloween at Kew scary?
It can be spooky, but it’s designed for a wide range of ages. In 2026 Kew has Daylight, Twilight and Moonlight sessions, with the scare factor increasing later in the evening…so choose the time that suits you (and a Moonlight session if you dare).
When is Bonfire Night in London?
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is celebrated on or around 5 November. In 2026, both Alexandra Palace and Battersea Park have their big displays across 7–8 November this year.
Where should I stay in London in autumn?
I’d stay somewhere central enough that rainy-day plan changes are easy, but not necessarily right in the middle of Leicester Square chaos. The Welbeck in Marylebone works really well for a central stay, while Oak & Poppy in Hampstead is the one I’d look at if autumn walks around Hampstead Heath are high on your list.
P.S. – You can also use my full where to stay in London guide.
What should I book ahead for autumn in London?
I’d book Halloween at Kew, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London during Dark Arts, Frieze London, specific BFI London Film Festival screenings, popular Bonfire Night displays like Alexandra Palace, and any restaurant or autumn afternoon tea.
Do you have an Autumn in London itinerary?
Yes! I’ve made five custom Autumn in London itineraries with downloadable Google Maps and carefully planned routes, so you can spend the day exploring instead of figuring out logistics. The full bundle comes with lifetime access.
Plan the Rest of Your Autumn in London
Still planning? Here’s more of my London guides to help you decide where to stay, what to pack and how to make the most of autumn in the city.
Before you go
- Where to Stay in London: Best Areas for First-Time Visitors
- What Is the Weather Like in London?
- Ultimate London Packing List: What to Wear in Autumn
- London for First-Time Visitors: Your Complete Guide
Autumn in London itineraries
Autumn walks & neighbourhood days
- 19 Amazing Things to Do in Hampstead, London: A Local’s Guide
- 16 Best Things to Do in Highgate, London
- The Best Things to Do in Richmond, London
- 5 Magic Things to Do in Richmond Park, London
- 10 Things to Do in Crouch End, London
- 10 Best Things to Do in Muswell Hill
