This time of year makes us think about the immortal words of 60s quartet The Mamas & the Papas – 'all the leaves are brown' – which means it's time to head into the countryside and experience the stunning colours of fall before they disappear. Why not make a weekend of it, and book yourself an autumn break? From cosy pubs with rooms and boutique B&Bs to cottages with log burners, there are plenty of options to mull over. Read on for a few of our favourite places to stay in autumn.
The New Forest
To make an autumn break of it, check out our New Forest accommodations, with everything from country house hotels and rural cottages to scenic hostels.
How about the fantastic Careys Manor Hotel, positioned right in the midst of the National Park, with great comfort, the SenSpa, a pool and more? There's also sister property the Montagu Arms in nearby Beaulieu, that's home to the highly-rated Terrace Restaurant. Out and about, amble the two-mile riverside walk to Buckler's Hard. Another top option is Cottage Lodge Hotel, an eco-conscious boutique property on the edge of Brockenhurst with 16 rustic-chic, individually designed bedrooms.
RHS Wisley, Surrey
For a top autumn break, check out our Surrey accommodation guide.
The Stag on the River sits on the river in Godalming, a charming 17-century pub with top-notch service and food and seven timber-framed bedrooms. Part of the local Grosvenor Pubs group, another top option is The Kings Arms in Egham. For something a little different, Denbies Vineyard Hotel fits the bill – a rural 17-room retreat where you can take a tour, sample estate wines, and eat at one of the on-site restaurants.
Diwali, The Midlands
For an apartment in Birmingham city centre, check out Staying Cool at Rotunda. Located within a Grade-II listed landmark with panoramic views and bespoke furniture, what better base while you explore the area? And for self-catering places to stay across the region, there are plenty of choices, from Cruckbarn, a super-stylish rural retreat to cosy Cider Mill Cottage near Worcester. For an upscale country house hotel, check into Brockencote Hall just outside Kidderminster, and if it's something a bit quirky you're after, take a look at Forest Holidays Sherwood Forest with their woodland cabins.
The Lake District
Check out our guide to accommodation in the Lake District for great autumn break options.
For self-catering luxury on the shores of Ullswater, Waternook sleeps 12 across six suites, while family-friendly Westward House overlooks Lake Windermere and has three bedrooms. Or how about boutique B&B Randy Pike in Ambleside or contemporary bed and breakfast The Yan, that's also home to a first-rate bistro? For a secluded spot near Farleton Fell, take a look at Once Upon A Fell.
Sussex Bonfires
For a range of autumn break recommendations, check out our guide to Sussex stays.
We have tons of excellent choices, from The Nest, a charming cottage on the edge of the Ashdown Forest, and Upper Barn, an eco-friendly property in the South Downs National Park to Nest Stay, a quintessential West Sussex hideaway. Hotel-wise, check out Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa and boutique bolthole The Old Rectory. And for an exclusive use option, Fair Oak Farm sleeps up to 32!
Scotland
Check out our Best of Scotland page to find incredible places to stay all over the country for an autumn break.
For example, there's chic self-catering for up to 12 at 94DR in Edinburgh, luxury hotel Murrayshall Country Estate in Perthshire, luxe log cabins at LazyDay Cottages in the Scottish Borders, and The Manor House, an elegant hotel overlooking Oban Bay.
If you've enjoyed our autumn breaks blog, why not check out our Inspiration page? Or, for a range of accommodation offers, head to Hot Deals.
And for more property suggestions, browse our guides, from romantic retreats and dog-friendly hotels to cottages with hot tubs.
Image 1 from: https://www.thenewforest.co.uk
Image 2 from: https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley