Autumn in London: the best things to do

Autumn is one of the best times of year to be in London. The summer crowds thin out, the parks turn gold and red, and the city fills up with festivals, markets and cosy places to escape the rain. Whether you live in London or are just visiting for a season, here is a complete guide to making the most of autumn in the city.

See the autumn colours in London’s parks

London’s parks are at their best in October and early November. A few favourites:

• Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens — easy to reach, with beautiful tree-lined paths and the Serpentine lake reflecting the autumn colours.
• Regent’s Park — home to some of the most striking autumn foliage in the city, plus the Rose Garden and Primrose Hill nearby for skyline views.
• Hampstead Heath — wilder and hillier, with fewer crowds and lovely views over London from Parliament Hill.
• Richmond Park — the best spot to see the annual deer rut in October, when red and fallow deer become especially active and vocal. Keep a safe distance and bring a zoom lens if you have one.
• Kew Gardens — one of the most spectacular displays of autumn colour in the city, with entry fees but a truly unforgettable setting.

Visit London’s autumn markets

Autumn brings out some of London’s best food and flower markets:

• Borough Market — seasonal produce, mushrooms, game, and warming street food, perfect for a Saturday morning.
• Columbia Road Flower Market — still beautiful in autumn, with seasonal blooms, pumpkins and wreaths appearing as the season goes on.
• Camden Market — a good indoor option on rainy days, with food stalls, vintage shops and live music.

Go to London’s autumn festivals and events

Autumn is packed with cultural events across the city:

• Diwali on the South Bank (late October) — a colourful celebration of light with music, dance and food stalls.
• Bonfire Night (5 November) — fireworks displays across the city, with great views from parks such as Alexandra Palace and Battersea Park.
• London Film Festival (October) — screenings across the city, many in English with subtitles.
• Frieze London (October) — one of the world’s biggest contemporary art fairs, held in Regent’s Park.
• London Jazz Festival (November) — live music in venues across the city, from small clubs to concert halls.
• Halloween events — pop-up experiences, themed nights and spooky walking tours run throughout late October.

Try seasonal food and drink

Autumn is comfort-food season in Britain. Look out for pumpkin spice drinks in cafés, a proper Sunday roast in a traditional pub, seasonal game on restaurant menus, and treats like toffee apples and hot chocolate. Many restaurants also run seasonal menus for the London Restaurant Festival in October.

Spend a rainy afternoon in a museum

Autumn brings occasional rain, and London’s world-class museums are the perfect escape. The British Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Tate Modern are all free to enter and easily fill an afternoon.

Watch the city get ready for Christmas

As autumn turns into early winter, London’s famous shopping streets — Oxford Street, Regent Street and Carnaby Street — switch on their Christmas lights, usually in mid-to-late November. Ice rinks also start to open around this time, including popular ones at Somerset House and the Natural History Museum, so it’s worth booking early if you want to skate.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in London in autumn? London autumns are generally mild, with temperatures between 8°C and 16°C. Rain is common, so it’s worth carrying an umbrella and having a few indoor activities in mind.

When is the best time to see autumn colours in London? Mid-October to early November is usually the peak, though this can shift slightly depending on the year’s weather.

Is London expensive to visit in autumn? Many of the best autumn activities — parks, markets, museums, and events like Diwali on the South Bank — are free or low-cost, making it an affordable season to explore the city.

Make the most of your time in London

Autumn is the perfect season to explore everything London has to offer. And if you’re spending time in the city, enrolling in one of our English courses is a great way to get to know London even better while you improve your English.