Fresh air, warm spiced cider and copper coloured trees offering a changing landscape… This is why autumn is the favourite season for many of us. Experienced travellers will tell you that it’s the perfect time to visit major cities like London without the summer tourist crowds and endless queues. With the season’s special offers on flights and accommodation, there’s no need to put off that trip to London you’ve always wanted! But, if you’re not convinced, take a look at these great activities that will make your stay a taste of autumn…
Walking the streets of London
The best way to enjoy autumn is to spend it outdoors: enjoy the brief rays of sunshine and autumnal scenery before the winter arrives and leaves you housebound. Luckily, London has quaint neighbourhoods like Notting Hill, where you can spend the day strolling the colourful streets and visiting vintage shops to spruce up your autumn wardrobe. But, of course, you know what the London weather is like… when it rains, pop into one of the many cafes lining Portobello Road and indulge in some tasty autumnal fare or warm up with a glass of hot cider by the fireplace in a cosy English pub. Grab your book of the moment while waiting for the rain to stop. If you’re not into reading, take your phone and discover the best slots to play online to spend time in a fun way.
Did you know that London has the largest urban forest globally, with over 8 million trees? Autumn is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the vivid colours of nature’s ever-changing landscape. Experience breathtaking views of the forest canopy ecosystem in all its autumnal glory as you walk the 200-metre Treetop Walkway at Kew Gardens, just 30 minutes from central London or take time to stroll through one of the city’s many parks.
London Film Festival
If you’re more of a film buff than a walker, the London Film Festival is sure to catch your eye. It runs from 4 to 15 October 2017, with over 200 feature films screening in 20 cinemas across the city. You’re sure to see some celebrities and discover some promising new local talent.
Discovering mixology
London Cocktail Week is also held in the autumn. A pass entitles you to discounted cocktails at over 250 venues as well as discounts for bar and restaurant events. Enjoy a host of activities,
including live music, food and drink pairings, whisky tastings and even a tequila party Alcohol may warm you up, but that’s no reason to drink too much; stay safe!
The Tower of London at dusk
Don’t miss a visit to the Tower of London, whose spooky atmosphere becomes even scarier as Halloween approaches. Twilight Tours have guided night-time tours of one of London’s most famous landmarks. Walk along cobbled paths and climb ancient stone staircases as you listen to tales of the city’s macabre past and spine-chilling stories. Fans of London’s obscure history will be in for a treat!
The Making of Harry Potter
Autumn is a great time to immerse yourself in the world of the Harry Potter saga. Discover the details and efforts that went into the making of these legendary films: see the props and costumes created and used during the production of the series, as well as the sets of the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, Traverse Road, the Ministry of Magic, the Gryffindor common room and boys’ dormitory, Hagrid’s hut and a 1:24 scale model of Hogwarts castle among others. Don’t hesitate to end your visit by buying a useful accessory for chilly weather, such as a scarf in the colours of your favourite house. Are you a Gryffindor or a Hufflepuff?
Londontopia is simply the website for people who love London. It was founded by Jonathan & Jackie Thomas from Anglotopia.net as a place to post articles solely focused on London and its environs. Keep up with all the latest London news at Londontopia! This site is geared towards people who love to visit London and our primary audience is North American but everyone is welcome!