Plan Your Perfect Autumn in London: Top Fall Foliage Spots, Markets, Food, and Events
Autumn in London brings cooler air, vibrant fall leaves, and a full events calendar. Parks change each week, galleries rotate exhibitions, and markets stock pumpkins and apples. Early autumn is still warm enough for travellers to enjoy outdoor activities under the sun. Mid to late autumn may bring chillier winds, fog, and cold showers. But don’t worry! Despite the cooler weather, you can enjoy London to the fullest in autumn. How? Take a look at our curated list of autumnal events and activities to find out! From the best parks to spot fall leaves to Oktoberfest, we have something for everyone if you are spending autumn in London.
Key Takeaways
- Autumn in London is from September to November, and the average temperature fluctuates between 9-20°C.
- Pack layers, a light waterproof jacket, a small umbrella, and shoes with grip for easy travelling.
- The best places to see fall foliage in London are Kew Gardens, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath. Seasonal events during autumn include London Fashion Week, Open House London, Totally Thames, and Oktoberfest in London.
- The top farmers’ markets to visit during autumn in London are Borough Market, Marylebone Farmers Market, and Notting Hill Farmers Market.
- Seasonal food to try in London includes Sunday roast, game pie, mushrooms on toast, apple crumble with custard, sticky toffee pudding, butternut squash soup, Lancashire hotpot, sausage and mash, cheddar and leek tart, and cranachan with apple or pear.
Weather: What To Expect in Autumn in London
Autumn in London is milder than many expect. London’s autumn normally includes September, October, and November. Compared to summer, temperatures drop in steady steps from September into November. September is around 11-20°C, October cools down a little bit more to 9-15 °C, and November averages 9-12°C. Fog appears more often in late autumn, especially in low parks and near water. The clocks go back on the last Sunday in October, which brings earlier sunsets compared to the summer months. Note that quick rain showers often pop up, then pass. Wind is usually moderate in the city center, stronger by the river and in open parks. Cloud cover is common, therefore, it may feel colder than the actual forecast.
We recommend packing layers, a light waterproof jacket, a compact umbrella, and closed shoes with grip for travelling to London in autumn. However, leave heavy winter gear at home unless you are travelling in late autumn. With the basics set, let’s uncover the top trendy autumnal spots in the city that match the season!
Top 10 Places to Enjoy Autumn in London
In this season of colorful trees and autumnal farmers’ market visits, we have gathered the top 10 spots you must visit during autumn in London. In addition to our list below, if you are looking for cozy bookstores to rest in between your itinerary, check out our recommendations about the oldest bookshop in London!
Fall Foliages
- Kew Gardens
Maples, oaks, and liquidambar trees show strong autumn colors at the Kew Gardens. Take a walk on the Remarkable Tree Trail to spot the oldest tree in Kew while enjoying the fall leaves. On rainy days, step into Temperate House to experience the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse. Early entry or late afternoon works best if you want to beat the crowd. - Richmond Park
This is the largest royal park that blends wooded slopes, open grassland, and herds of red and fallow deer. Autumn brings the rut, so keep a safe distance and follow signs. Bracken turns bronze across wide views, offering a fantastic backdrop of fall leaves. Bring sturdy shoes for uneven tracks. - Hampstead Heath
Expect a mix of woodland, ponds, and high viewpoints. Parliament Hill gives a classic skyline of the City and the West End. For a stunning autumn photo at the Heath, go to Lime Avenue, where the canopy turns bright yellow. Viaduct Pond also presents clear reflections of the colorful trees. Be aware that the paths may range from smooth to muddy after rain.
Farmers’ Markets
- Borough Market
A historic food market that runs through autumn with strong produce from British growers. Find local apples, pears, squash, mushrooms, and cheeses during the fall season. Start early, graze on small tastings, and pick up picnic supplies for nearby riverside spots. Many stalls rotate seasonal dishes that suit cooler days from September. Opening hours vary based on the day of the week. - Marylebone Farmers’ Market
A Sunday market known for local farms, bread, dairy, and seasonal vegetables. Autumn brings corn, game, and root vegetables. It is a practical stop if you stay near Regent’s Park or Oxford Street. Check out their opening hours here. - Notting Hill Farmers’ Market
A Saturday market with small producers and a friendly pace. Expect crisp apples, leafy greens, local honey in season, and hot food stands. The location fits well with Portobello Road and nearby mews streets. Cashless payment works at most stalls. Find their opening hours here.
You can discover more options from our guide to the best food markets in London!
Art & Culture
- London Fashion Week
September fashion shows draw global attention and spill energy into nearby streets. Public events, screenings, and pop-ups vary by year. Even without tickets, window displays, talks, and retail collaborations give a sense of the moment. The show runs from September 18th to 22nd, and here is the schedule for 2025. - Open House London
This architecture festival opens buildings that are usually closed to the public. It often runs across several days in September. This year, it is from September 13th to 21st. You can tour historic halls, modern studios, and community spaces with volunteer guides. Some entries need booking. The mix changes each year, so scan the program and cluster visits by area. - Totally Thames
A month-long celebration of the river in September. Events are categorized into five different categories based on the theme: mudlarks, river events, live performances, visual arts events, walks & talks, and workshops. Expect art commissions, guided walks, light installations, and boat events. Many options are free, and family activities appear along the foreshore. Tide times affect certain walks, so be sure to check event schedules. - Oktoberfest in London
Believe it or not, there is an Oktoberfest in London! The city hosts lively beer events in October. Look for long tables, live music, and classic food. Tickets sell out fast, so we recommend booking ahead. Most venues accept contactless payment and run several sittings per day. Travel by Underground, since venues can be tucked into large event spaces.
From Sights to Seasonal Bites
After parks, markets, and events, food sets the tone for the evening. Autumn menus in London highlight roots, mushrooms, game, and orchard fruit. Let’s dive straight into specific menus that you should try when in London during autumn!
Top 10 Things To Eat During Autumn in London
Savory
- Sunday roast
Choose beef, chicken, pork, or a plant main, with roast potatoes, seasonal veg, and gravy. Many pubs source local produce in autumn. It is a social meal that suits cooler autumn afternoons and pairs with a short riverside or park walk before dessert. - Game pie
Game season runs through autumn, so pies feature venison, pheasant, or partridge with rich stock. Often served with mash and greens. Look for vendors who list farms and grab a small slice at a market stall for lunch. You can find a full plate that suits a slow dinner in a classic pub. - Mushrooms on toast
Wild or farmed mushrooms sauté with garlic and herbs, then pile onto thick bread. Some places add a soft egg. It is quick, filling, and ideal after a long walk. The dish highlights the season without heavy prep and appears across cafes, pubs, and market counters. - Lancashire hotpot
Slow-cooked lamb with onions under sliced potatoes. The top crisps while the inside stays soft. It is a simple, traditional dish that appears on seasonal menus. Portions are generous, so plan your menu around them. Best matched with a bitter or ale in a pub with steady heat and solid seating. - Butternut squash soup
We can’t forget a squash-based menu during autumn in London. It is a common lunch special in markets and cafes in London during this season. Some cooks even finish it with Stilton or pumpkin seeds to take it up a notch. The soup warms hands and hungry souls who are craving a warm delicacy. - Cheddar and leek tart
Shortcrust pastry filled with sautéed leeks and sharp cheese. Served warm with sala, it works as a light lunch or a starter before a roast. Bakeries and cafes in London bake it in small rounds or slices. The flavor stays steady even when eaten outdoors on cooler days.
Sweet
- Apple crumble with custard
Londoners enjoy this tart apple baked crumble under a buttery topping, served with warm custard. The mix of hot fruit and creamy sauce suits damp evenings when you want simple comfort on chilly days. - Sausage and mash
The essentials are quality sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and onion gravy. Seasonal autumn greens add color and bite to the plate. It is easy to find near big stations and shopping areas. Many pubs run a value early evening deal before crowds thicken. - Sticky toffee pudding
A soft sponge made with dates, drenched in toffee sauce. It is a staple of cooler months. Many kitchens serve it with vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness. Portion sizes vary, so consider sharing after a hearty main. The dish normally appears on both pub and restaurant menus. - Cranachan with an autumn twist
A Scottish dessert of oats, cream, honey, and berries. In autumn, some places add apple compote or spiced pear. The texture is light after rich mains. Look for smaller glasses for a quick sweet stop. It also pairs well with coffee if you skip alcohol.
Conclusion
Autumn in London offers a gentle mix of parks, markets, and culture. You can spot fall leaves in Kew, Richmond, and Hampstead. Or browse through Borough, Marylebone, and Notting Hill for autumnal food. You can also explore cultural options in the city, such as fashion shows, open buildings, river events, and beer festivals.
Would you like to gain more insights into hidden local gems this autumn in London? Join Amitylux for a private tour in London. Our routes can focus on unknown fall foliage spots, unique architecture, or food, or blend all three! We tailor pick-up points, schedules, and stops to suit your interests. You get local context, stress-free logistics, and freedom to enjoy the city.
If you are looking for cozy shops to visit along the way, add vintage stores to your plan. Our guide to the best thrift stores in London helps you find quality pieces that fit layered looks and cooler weather. With a few smart choices, autumn in London becomes a relaxed city break filled with color, flavor, and easy travel!
Frequently Asked Questions
What month is autumn in London?
September, October, and November are normally considered autumn in London.
Where to see autumn leaves in London?
Visit Kew, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath for colorful fall leaves and autumn landscapes with deer sightings.
What is the first day of autumn in the UK?
Autumn starts on 1 September. The clocks go back on the last Sunday in October in the UK.
Is it cold in London in October?
It is cool to mild with average temperatures around 9-15 °C. Mornings are fresh, and there are occasional rain showers. Layers and a light waterproof jacket are recommended.
