Autumn in London is a magical time. The weather is still pleasant with temperatures ranging between 7-20–degrees between September and November. Perfect for grabbing a scarf and enjoying the fresh, cool outdoors. It’s a great time to take a scenic walk, get involved in the arts calendar, enjoy the food scene, and on a rainy day, dip into one of the Best Pubs in London for a cosy drink. And of course, what better time to enjoy a bus tour – if the rain shows up, we’ve got you covered…literally.
If you plan to be in London in autumn, we’ve rounded up our top picks of things to do:
Spot the shades of autumn
With the summer crowds thinning out, autumn in London is a wonderful time to take a walk and enjoy this city in shades of yellows, oranges and brown. The leaves turn crunchy making a crisp, morning stroll in one of London’s Best Parks very satisfying. Head to Kew Gardens and climb the 118 steps up to the Treetop Walkway, or meet the deer that call Richmond Park home. You can cycle the path of Regent’s Canal, or leisurely cruise down on a canal boat. Be sure to take in the colours of autumn along the way.
Totally Thames
Autumn in London brings the kick off of the Totally Thames festival, an annual month-long celebration of the River Thames in September. It’s a creative affair getting Londoner’s and tourists alike into the spirit of the season. Along the 42-mile stretch of water, you’ll find a hive of activity aiming to inspire and surprise. Artists, local communities and river-interest businesses come together to showcase art installations, boating events, live performances, talks, workshops and much more. Meander your way along the river and see what surprises you find.
For the food-obsessed
The culinary scene in London has exploded over the years, and autumn is one of the best times to take advantage of it. October lines up lots of food-themed festivals. There’s the London Restaurant Festival for starters, with more than 400 restaurants across the capital participating with chef-hosted events, special menus and discounted dinners. Then enjoy a special offer tipple or two during Cocktail Week in one of the 300+ bars involved. And for something sweet there’s even Chocolate Week – nothing more needed said on that! Just come hungry.
The horrors of Halloween
Autumn in London is the time to dust off your witches broom and get involved in the many Halloween events laid on around the city. From horror shows at the theatre and ghost stories at the Globe, to pumpkin carving workshops and cinema screenings of chilling classics. Trick or treats for all the family. And for those that scare easily, you can simply enjoy one of the magnificent firework displays lighting up the skies. What will you dare do?
Late Night at the Museums
If you enjoy visiting a museum in the daytime, you’ll absolutely love experiencing it after dark. Museums at Night is a three-day cultural event that takes place at the end of October, with some of London’s best and most famous galleries, museums and attractions taking part. Hop from one to another for special talks, random activities and one-off exhibitions. Or simply pick your favourite institution and spend the evening taking in the arts from a different perspective.
So there you have our list of must-do activities during autumn in London. A time when summer starts to fade, but the energy for fun and festivities is high. And what better way to learn about this diverse city than on a Big Bus tour. Hop aboard and we’ll take you to see the best sights and attractions London is famous for. And if the rain decides to show, here’s our recommended list of Indoor Activities in London to keep you busy. Or, for more ideas on where to visit during the autumn months, check out our guide on Europe in Autumn: Our Top 3 Cities.
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