Autumn in London: Best Places to See Gorgeous Fall Foliage

If you’re a natural-born explorer looking for the most stunning autumnal spots across London you’re in luck! Here’s a wonderful selection of breathtaking displays of bold and bright autumn colours. Adopt leaf-peeping as a new hobby, take your camera, and let’s discover those photogenic shades of yellow, orange, and red in full splendour, proof that autumn is one of the best seasons to explore this spectacular city.

Flame-colored leaves in the beautiful 150-year old ornamental Italian Gardens on the north side of Kensington Gardens, near Lancaster Gate.

Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens

Known as London's equivalent of Central Park in New York, the 350-acre Hyde Park displays one of the widest, most famous, and utterly spectacular autumnal displays in Central London and beyond. Just stroll along its countless paths to admire over 4,000 trees, including London Plane, Sweet Chestnut, Lime, and English Oak. To see the breathtaking array of colours from a different perspective, rent a pedal boat on the Serpentine.

One of London’s eight royal parks, Hyde Park was originally established in 1536 as Henry VIII’s hunting ground. It can easily be accessed from various tube stations, including Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch, or Knightsbridge. And if you’re in a shopping mood, Oxford Street is just around the corner.

Regent's Park

Every autumn, the delightful Regent’s Park in central London lights up in stunning shades of warm oranges, golden yellows, and deep reds. Get ready to walk on cobalt-coloured carpets of fallen autumn leaves and don’t forget to look up at the never-ending domes of barely-hanging foliage. Here are some key highlights of the autumn colors in Regent's Park:

The Avenue Gardens: This section of the park is particularly enchanting in the fall. Stroll along tree-lined paths, and you'll be greeted by a radiant canopy of red and golden leaves. The reflection of any fall color you can dream of in the nearby water features creates a mesmerizing canvas.

Queen Mary's Gardens: Known for its superb rose gardens, this area takes on a different charm in autumn. Amidst the fading summer blooms, you'll find a burst of any shade of autumn color you can imagine. Maple trees, horse chestnuts, and other deciduous trees showcase their fiery foliage.

Boating Lake: The trees surrounding the boating lake put on a brilliant display of red and gold, casting their reflections on the serene waters. It's an ideal spot for a tranquil autumn walk.

Japanese Maple Trees: Keep an eye out for Japanese maple trees scattered throughout the park. These trees are known for their stunning red and orange leaves, adding a touch of elegance to the autumn scenery.

Wetlands Area: This section of the park is alive with autumnal colors. The various trees and shrubs create a dynamic landscape, perfect for exploring.

Frieze Sculpture: If you're visiting during the annual Frieze Sculpture exhibition, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate contemporary art set against the backdrop of autumn's intense hues.

Wildlife Watching: Autumn in Regent's Park also offers a chance to see wildlife preparing for the winter. Squirrels busy themselves gathering nuts, and waterfowl are abundant around the park's lakes.

Cool Air: Along with the stunning foliage, the autumn season in Regent's Park brings a refreshing crispness to the air. It's a perfect time for a leisurely walk or a cozy picnic.

Kynance Mews, South Kensington

Nestled in the charmingly leafy South Kensington, the picturesque Kynance Mews is probably London’s most popular spot to capture arches that glow burgundy and ivy-draped houses. The mews are lined with mature trees that gracefully shed their leaves in the autumn. As you stroll along the cobbled street, you'll be treated to:

1. Vibrant Vines: The brick facades of the mews houses often feature ivy and climbing plants. In the fall, these vines transform into a tapestry of fiery red leaves, creating a striking contrast against the brickwork.

2. Soft Autumn Light: The mews, with its narrow streets and cozy atmosphere, is the perfect place to enjoy the soft, golden light of autumn. The low-angled sun enhances the warmth of the fall colors and casts a beautiful glow on the buildings.

3. Charming Architecture: Kynance Mews is renowned for its attractive architecture. The fall season serves to highlight the intricate details of the mews houses, from colorful front doors to elegant window boxes filled with seasonal flowers.

4. Seasonal Decor: Residents often adorn their homes with fall-themed decorations, such as pumpkins, wreaths, and seasonal flowers. This adds to the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of the mews.

Little Venice

A short walk from Paddington Station, the canals of Little Venice boast a sublime autumnal scenery. And if a stroll through the canals is not enough, why not hop aboard a canal boat to enjoy the full experience (and better views)?

Little Venice is renowned for its picturesque canals and tree-lined pathways. In the fall, the leaves of the plane trees that line the waterways turn various shades. The reflection of these vibrant leaves in the tranquil canals creates a mesmerizing scene.

Peaceful Atmosphere: Little Venice offers a serene ambiance. During the fall, the area is less crowded than in the summer months, allowing for a more intimate and quiet experience.

Canal Boat Rides: Enjoy a leisurely canal boat ride through Little Venice. The comfortable, covered boats provide an excellent vantage point for taking in any fall color along the water's edge.

Cafes and Pubs: Little Venice is dotted with charming cafes and traditional British pubs. These cozy establishments are perfect for warming up with a hot beverage or enjoying a hearty meal after your walk.

Richmond & Richmond Park

To experience London in all its autumn glory, you must take the District Line or the Overground to Richmond. From the station, you can head to the Riverside, via Richmond Green, and then towards Terrace Gardens and further up on the hill.

Kew Gardens

As the summer warmth fades away, Kew Gardens in London transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of eye-catching pigments and zen beauty. Autumn breathes new life into this botanical wonderland.

Autumn in Kew Gardens is a time of transition and abundance. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plant species, many of which bloom during this season. Flowers like dahlias, chrysanthemums, and asters add bursts of color to the landscape, complementing the foliage of the trees. As the temperature drops, migratory birds flock to the gardens, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Squirrels scurry about, foraging for food, and the occasional fox can be spotted in the distance, adding to the charm of this natural haven.

Autumn in Kew Gardens is a true feast for the senses, a time to immerse oneself in nature's beauty. The crisp air creates an enchanting experience. As the leaves fall and the seasons change, Kew Gardens reminds us of the ever-changing cycles of life and the enduring beauty of nature. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking solace in a serene environment, a visit to Kew Gardens during autumn is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Kyoto Gardens & Holland Park

Autumn in Holland Park, London is a magical time when the park transforms into a picturesque haven of serene beauty. As you stroll through the park, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking display of autumn foliage. The pathways are carpeted with fallen leaves, inviting you to take leisurely walks and immerse yourself in nature's embrace. The peaceful vibe is enhanced by the gentle rustling of fall leaves and the occasional chirping of birds.

Located in the heart of Holland Park, the Kyoto Gardens provide an oasis of zen inspired by traditional Japanese design. During autumn, the gardens become even more enchanting as the maple trees showcase their fiery hues. Walking along the stone pathways, you'll discover meticulously pruned trees, elegantly arranged rocks, and serene water features that evoke a sense of serenity and harmony.

Both Holland Park and the Kyoto Gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the glow of autumn. Whether you're seeking solitude, a place for contemplation, or simply a scenic setting for a leisurely stroll, these parks provide an unforgettable experience during the autumn season.

Chiswick Park

The park is known for its iconic Classic Bridge, which is surrounded by stunning autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the park's gardens, take in the vibrant colors of the leaves, and appreciate the unique textures of fallen leaves. It's another great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse oneself in nature's indulgence anytime between early September and late November. For those seeking solitude, the park's numerous benches and quiet corners offer the perfect spots to sit and contemplate the changing of the seasons.

Southbank

The South Bank in London is a picturesque location to visit during the autumn season. The area is adorned with rows of poplar trees that line the river, creating a stunning display of autumn foliage.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the footpath on the South Bank side of the River Thames and admire the colors of the leaves.

Gunnersbury Park

Watch nature's colorful metamorphosis taking center stage. As the days grow shorter and a gentle chill permeates the air, Gunnersbury Park undergoes a magnificent transformation. The lush green canopies of summer leaves burst into a dazzling display of autumn's fiery hues. The towering trees, from the ancient oaks to the stately chestnuts, become painted canvases, each leaf a brushstroke of red, orange, and gold.

Walking along the winding paths, the crisp crunch of fallen leaves underfoot creates a soothing melody, inviting visitors to explore the park's hidden corners. The park's two tranquil lakes mirror the kaleidoscope of colors overhead, with ducks and swans gracefully gliding across the water.

The historic buildings that grace the park, such as the magnificent Gunnersbury House, stand as elegant backdrops to this seasonal spectacle. The scent of damp earth and fallen leaves mingles with the distant echoes of children playing, making for an idyllic autumn ambiance.

Walpole Park

Walpole Park, located in Ealing, London, is a charming and picturesque place to visit during the autumn season.

Autumnal Photography: Walpole Park in autumn provides ample opportunities for photographers. The striking foliage and the park's historic buildings make for unique autumn-themed photos.

Historic Ambiance: The park is home to historic buildings, including Pitzhanger Manor, which can add a touch of historical ambiance to your autumn visit. The manor and its gardens provide an interesting backdrop for your explorations.

Reflective Moments: The lake in Walpole Park provides a calm and reflective surface, enhancing the beauty of the fall foliage with mirror-like reflections. It's a lovely spot for contemplation and enjoying the scenery.

Autumn Activities: You can take part in various autumn activities like conker collecting or enjoying a warm drink at the park's cafe.

Brent Lodge Park & Brent Canal

Brent Lodge Park and the nearby Brent Canal in London offer a delightful experience in autumn.

Tranquil Waterways. The Brent Canal meanders through the park, offering a mind-blowing setting for autumn walks. The calm canal waters are framed by overhanging branches, making it an ideal spot for contemplative strolls. You may also spot narrowboats gently gliding along the canal, enhancing the serenity of the scene.

Reflections on the Canal: The stillness of the canal water allows for mesmerizing reflections of the surrounding trees and foliage. The mirrored images on the water's surface create a double dose of autumn beauty.

Open Spaces: Brent Lodge Park is a place where you can find open grassy areas, perfect for picnicking and relaxation. The crisp autumn weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor dining and leisurely activities.

Community and Atmosphere: The park and the canal often draw locals and visitors alike, creating a friendly and communal atmosphere. Engaging with fellow nature enthusiasts can enhance your experience.

Horsenden Hill

Horsenden Hill, located in West London, is a beautiful spot to visit during the autumn season.

Foliage Bursting with Color. As you step onto the trails of Horsenden Hill in autumn, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking display of color. The leaves on the trees that blanket the hillside transition from various shades of green to brilliant hues of red, orange, and gold. It's a magnificent spectacle that transforms the landscape into a living canvas of fall beauty.

Panoramic Views. Horsenden Hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. As the leaves fall, the vistas become even more expansive, allowing you to see far into the distance. On a clear autumn day, you can catch glimpses of London's skyline.

Wildlife Activity: Autumn is a time of increased wildlife activity. You might spot creatures preparing for the colder months. Horsenden Hill's natural areas are teeming with life.

Tranquil Retreat: The autumn season brings fewer visitors to Horsenden Hill compared to the summer months. This means you can enjoy a more relaxing experience as you explore the hill's trails and woodlands.

Seasonal Festivities: Occasionally, Horsenden Hill hosts seasonal events and festivals during autumn, such as harvest celebrations or nature-themed activities. These events can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.

Horsenden Hill in autumn is a place where you can connect with nature, revel in seasonal transformations, and escape the urban hustle and bustle of London. It's a scenic destination that becomes even more enchanting during this time of the year, making it an excellent spot for an unforgettable autumn outing.

*All photos were taken by Ina/WithinLondon, unless stated otherwise :)