Norfolk

IF you fancy a UK staycation or day out but want to avoid the crowds, then autumn is the best time to do it.

Here are seven of our favourite spots for a seasonal break from quiet seaside towns to the remote Scottish highlands and world-famous cities.

Norfolk

“There’s nothing better than visiting north-west Norfolk in the autumn. Hailing from Norfolk I might be a bit biased here, but I know the area inside and out.

“Taking a walk through Sandringham is my favourite thing to do at this time of year. Ancient trees shelter woodland paths lined with animal sculptures and dotted with tiny pine cones.

“Squirrels rush up tree trunks, children make friends at the giant wooden adventure playground, and dog walkers smile and nod to one another on forest walks.

“Just down the road from here you’ll find Snettisham Park, where you can head out on a deer safari and hand-feed stags on a 329 acre Norfolk farm.

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“A short walk from Snettisham Park, past its magnificent 14th-century church, will lead you to the Rose and Crown.

“This is a traditional village pub with a low-ceiling bar that used to house those who built the church in the 1300’s. Inside now you’ll find roaring fires, pints of local ale, fantastic roast dinners and the friendliest staff around.

“Heacham makes for the perfect base for your north-west Norfolk visit. It’s around 10 minutes’ drive from each of these spots, while staying tucked out of the way with its own beach that is a lot more peaceful than its busy neighbour Hunstanton.

“You can book a stay at Parkdean’s Heacham Beach Holiday Park from £99 for four nights this autumn.” – Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

Scottish Highlands

“The leaves may be turning on the trees but the Cairngorms was a vision of blue skies and sparkling lakes on my visit to the jewel of the Scottish Highlands in September.

“We made the most of exploring the lochs, forests, mountains and rivers with a quad bike adventure through the Alvie Estate in Aviemore with Cairngorms Quad Treks.

“While it may be snow-covered in winter, our September break saw endless clear blue skies as we weaved through dense forest paths, over open moorland and even through rushing streams.

“Also worth a wander in the sunshine are the paths around Loch An Eilein in Rothiemurchus Forest.

“Fringed by mountains and forest, it features a 14th century castle ruin on an island in its centre.

“Whisky lovers can take to the Malt Whisky Trail to discover the distilleries of the Cairngorms and Speyside region with guided tours and tastings on offer.

“Our base for our autumn break was the cosy Bynack wooden lodge at Pine Bank Chalets in the heart of Aviemore.

“The self-catering cabin featured two bedrooms, a compact kitchen, lounge-diner with a wood-fired stove and a lovely terrace to just sit and take in those gorgeous views – stay from £140per night.” – Head of Sun Travel, Lisa Minot

Cambridge

“Cambridge is a popular city that’s well-known for its beautiful and prestigious university, as well as for punting along the river.

“Summer might spring to mind as the best time to visit but generally it’s so busy with tourists that it can be hard to walk on the pavement or even get into the shops.

“As a work around, I much prefer autumn as a time to visit – just wrap up warm.

“When it comes to punting along the River Cam, there are always boats available later in the year – whether or not you want to give it a go yourself or head on a guided tour.

“Speaking of, if you fancy a tour of the colleges, or the whole city itself – these run throughout the year.

“Otherwise, there are lots of pubs, museums, markets, shopping and the famous Fitzbillies bakery which is home to the sticky Chelsea bun. But one of my favourite seasonal activities is walking the route from Cambridge to the pretty village of Grantchester.

“It’s a great sight-seeing spot for any fan of the Grantchester TV series that was actually filmed there. My one essential is a pit stop at the Orchard Tea Garden for a homemade scone, which you get with a pot of jam and clotted cream for £5.40.

“There’s also a selection of sandwiches, toasties, seasonal hot food like the Orchard Benedict and rarebit, as well as other homemade treats like coffee and pistachio cake.” – Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

Cornwall

“The South West on a whole tends to be swamped with tourists in the summer months, although Padstow surely takes the biscuit for the most crowded destination in Cornwall.

“It’s become so popular that I now refuse to visit during the school holidays – who wants to be sandwiched like sardines in a shop or queue hours for a pasty?

“In autumn, however, the calm streets paint a wildly different picture.

Harbour life is slower, cafe owners are less frazzled and you can potter past the pastel-toned houses at leisure, without the sense of being herded like cattle.

“Padstow’s charm really shines through at this time of year, too.

The seas look even more spectacular under a somewhat moody sky, while the blustery winds will ensure you have the coastal paths to yourself.

“I could spend hours plonked on a bench with a coffee taking in the views of weathered boats bobbing on the water while sea gulls squark overhead.

“Check out Cherry Trees Coffee House for a proper home-cooked breakfast, or Prawn on the Lawn for the freshest seafood dishes – make sure to book in advance, though, the restaurant is tiny.” – Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Glasgow

“For me, what makes the perfect autumn are trees bursting with colour, crunchy leaves underfoot and those sunny yet chilly days.

“This is when Glasgow comes into its element, making it the perfect post-summer weekend break.

“Too cold for me to brave in winter, there is no better time to wander the city’s cobbled streets and Victorian architecture.

“I had no idea until my visit that the city had even coined its own Scottish version of Art Nouveau, aptly called Glasgow Style (with the best example of this being the Glasgow School of Art).

“Wander around the University of Glasgow’s arched cloisters for free, along with the huge gardens coated in brown leaves in September and October. 

“For that sugar hit, don’t miss out on a doughnut from Tantrum, a Glaswegian owned franchise.

“I’m still thinking of their blueberry and white chocolate one, although their classic Birthday Cake was tempting. 

“And with the new bouquet Arthouse Hotel opening there (with rooms from £99), I’m already planning my return.” – Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Whitby

“Spooky Dracula connections, historic abbey ruins, a dramatic coastline and the UK’s best fish and chips? Whitby is truly perfect for an autumn staycation.

“Stroll along the Yorkshire seaside town’s picture-perfect harbour to find traditional amusements, a fascinating Captain Cook museum, and to take in dramatic views of the hilltop Whitby Abbey from across the water.

“For more spooky vibes, walk the famous Whitby 199 steps – the very same which a sinister black dog dashes up to announce Dracula’s arrival in Whitby in the classic novel.

“In fact, Bram Stoker was first inspired to write Dracula when he visited Whitby in 1890, as he was immediately struck by the dramatic Gothic ruins that loom over the pretty coastal town.

“The steps lead you to the 12th century St Mary’s Church, which is well worth a visit for its panoramic views over the bay – particularly at sunset.

“Follow the Cleveland Way coastal path from here and you’ll reach Robin Hood’s Bay – a former smuggler’s village where red-roofed cottages tumble down a steep cliff straight to the sea.

“Stop for lunch by Trenchers, which won Restaurant of the Year at the National Fish and Chips Awards 2026 – which is basically the Oscar‘s for chippies!

“Here you can grab a takeaway cod and chips, haddock and chips or scampi and chips all for £13.50 each. Enjoy them out on the harbour for the perfect way to end your day.” – Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens

STRIKING orange sunsets over sage green marshes. Clear, starry skies and healing salty air. A seafront pub bringing all the party vibes and the best of local seafood.

This is The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe, a posh pub with rooms on the North Norfolk coast.

Norfolk locals like me will tell you this pub is famous for three things: Oyster festivals, blazing orange sunsets, and the colossal Seafood Platter that’s doing the rounds on social media. (And maybe that clip of General Manager Rob falling off his chair on Instagram).

Here’s everything you need to know about staying at The White Horse.

Where is The White Horse?

The White Horse sits on the North Norfolk coastline in the seaside village of Brancaster Staithe.

This stretch of North Norfolk coast is known for it’s freshly-caught seafood such as lobsters and oysters, vast golden beaches and laid-back, friendly feel.

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The seafront pub sits smack-bang on the Norfolk Coast Path, its garden leading straight out onto the coastal trail with its maze of creeks and pretty marshland.

Follow the trail along to Brancaster Beach to find a sprawling expanse of dog-friendly golden sand, where you can even spot the rusted wreck of a WWII ship.

What is the hotel like?

The White Horse has an impressive exterior, with multi-levelled restaurants directly facing the salt marshes.

This setup offers unbeatable sunset views for arguably the best outdoor dining on the North Norfolk coast.

Inside the beachy theme continues with rattan furniture, shell and sailing artwork lining the walls, as well as a balance of cool blue and warm orange tones to reflect those famous Norfolk sunsets over the sea.

Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee by the creeks, or enjoying a pint of golden Wherry by the roaring fire, the whole place operates at an unhurried coastal pace – what locals dub being on ‘Norfolk time’.

What are the rooms like?

There’s 15 bedrooms in the main building, many of which look out over the sea, offering views over the sandy stretch of Scolt Head Island.

The ‘Room at the Top’ comes with a stargazing terrace and telescope, letting you take full advantage of Norfolk’s clear, starry skies.

The pub’s eight garden rooms are pricier starting at £210 per night, but are super spacious, come with their own outdoor terrace, and are just steps from the sea.

Rooms start from £165 per night, including breakfast. See whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink?

There’s three main spots to eat here: the cosy bar, the swanky main restaurant, and the vibey Marshside bar.

The main bar is perfect for popping into after a breezy beach walk, where you can grab a pint of local ale or a hot drink and sink into the sofa.

There’s also light lunches and dinner on offer here, like focaccia sandwiches (£12.50), fish and chips (£22.50) and a local beef burger with fries (£19).

The raised main restaurant boasts panoramic views over the marshes, with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow the sunlight to flood in, with touches of warm light and glowing candles.

Here you can order a locally-caught Market Fish of the Day (£28.50) served with Norfolk potatoes, three huge Brancaster Rock Oysters for £13.50, or the one that people travel far and wide for: the Seafood Platter.

The Seafood Platter comes with smoked salmon, oysters, crab, cockles, clams, tuna, crevettes, prawn cocktail, caviar, mackerel, sauces and focaccia for £89, and can easily be shared between 2-3 people. It’s a must-try!

Then there’s Marshside – the outdoor bar and restaurant where the pub’s festivals are held in summer, and cocktails are enjoyed with salty air and vibey music.

If you’re dining at Marshside, go for the chicken kiev and fries – or a cheeky Bloody Mary served with an oyster on the side for £15.

What else is there to do there?

This pub hosts very popular festivals over the summer and into September, including an annual Oyster Festival, Paella Weekend and a Lobster BBQ. Make sure to check the website for specific dates.

My favourite is the Sea Shanty Festival, where local crew Nelson’s Shantymen and touring shanty groups perform sea-faring favourites like Blow The Man Down and the TikTok-famous ‘Wellerman’ to raise money for the RNLI.

Outside of the festivals, there’s plenty of water sports to tackle nearby, from stand up paddling with Brancaster Boards to sailing with Brancaster Staithe Sailing Club.

If you’re looking to unwind, Wild Yoga Norfolk offers unique seaside wellness sessions like seaside sauna and swims in the saltwater creeks.

Twitchers will love nearby Titchwell Marsh, where you can spot birds like pink-footed geese, marsh harriers and avocets.

Sister pub The Jolly Sailors is just a few minutes down the road, and has a large beer garden with beach huts selling everything from unicorn ice cream to rum cocktails. They also serve generous bowls of local mussels, when in season.

Is it family friendly?

There are dedicated family rooms here with space for extra beds – just make sure to mention if you need this when booking.

There’s also a children’s menu in the restaurant with options for ‘Little Kids’ like haddock and chips (£9.50) and a chargrilled chicken burger (£9.50), or ‘Bigger Kids’ mains like a beef burger (£16) and even half a lobster with fries (£28).

Is the hotel accessible?

There are accessible garden rooms with ramps, as well as step-free access to restaurants.

Make sure to mention any additional needs you may have when booking.