Key Highlights
- Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November offers the richest autumn colours, peaceful trails, and misty lakeside mornings.
- Typical weather: Mild temperatures around 8°C–13°C with crisp air, mist, and occasional rain, perfect for long walks and fireside evenings.
- Where to see autumn colours: Grizedale Forest, Tarn Hows, and Fell Foot Park provide some of the most spectacular seasonal scenery in the UK.
- Best autumn walks: Gummer’s How, Grizedale Forest Trails, and Rydal Water capture the Lake District’s golden beauty at its peak.
- Rainy-day favourites: Retreat to the Holte Spa, explore the Lakes Aquarium, or wander through the local charming villages before returning to The Swan Hotel & Spa for dinner and a nightcap.
The Beauty of Autumn in the Lake District
The Lake District in autumn is full of warmth and colour. Trees turn gold and orange, the air feels fresh, and the lakes reflect the changing landscape. Early mornings often bring mist over the hills, and sunny afternoons make for perfect exploring weather.
This time of year is quieter than summer, making it a great time to unwind. Whether you’re out walking, exploring villages, or relaxing with a hot drink by the water, autumn in the Lake District is calm, welcoming, and beautiful.
At The Swan Hotel & Spa in Newby Bridge, autumn is one of our favourite seasons. Fires are lit, menus turn seasonal, and the view from the river looks its best.
For walking routes, weather updates, and local advice, visit the Lake District National Park website.
Make Your Autumn Adventure the Perfect Retreat
Going on an Autumn trip in the Lake District? Make The Swan Hotel your headquarters. Nestled near the southern tip of Windermere, our cosy rooms, riverside spa, and award-winning dining offer the perfect place to relax after a day of history and hilltops.
Book your stay now.
Book A StayAutumn Weather and What to Expect
The Lake District’s autumn weather can be unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm. You might wake up to clear skies and end your day watching soft rain move across the fells.
Typical Weather (September–November):
- Temperature: 8°C to 13°C
- Rainfall: Around 18–20 wet days per month
- Daylight: Roughly 10 hours in October, 8 in November
Tips for Visiting:
- Dress in layers. It can be cool in the mornings and evenings.
- Pack waterproof boots. Trails can get muddy.
- Start your day early. The best light for photos is in the morning or late afternoon.
After a walk, warm up in The Swan’s lounge with a drink by the fire, it’s one of the simplest pleasures of the season.
Where to See Autumn Colours in the Lake District
The Lake District’s autumn colours are some of the best in the UK. Forests, lakes, and fells come alive with shades of gold, bronze, and red. You don’t have to travel far from The Swan to find incredible views.
Grizedale Forest
Only 15 minutes from The Swan, Grizedale is a great place for forest walks. Its oak and larch trees glow with autumn colour, and the outdoor sculpture trail adds a creative twist. On bright mornings, the sunlight filters through the trees, lighting up the paths.
Tarn Hows
Between Coniston and Hawkshead, Tarn Hows is a peaceful walk that takes just over an hour. In autumn, the still water reflects the trees around it, creating postcard-perfect views. Visit early or late in the day for the best light.
Fell Foot Park
Right across the river from The Swan, this National Trust
site is ideal for easy walks and picnics. The lawns lead down to Windermere’s edge, where you can see the trees reflected in the lake. It’s great for families and couples, and just a short stroll back to The Swan for lunch.
Autumn Wildlife and Photography in the Lake District
Autumn is a great time to spot wildlife. Red deer, otters, and birds are more active as the season changes, and the quieter trails mean you’re more likely to see them. Around Windermere and Grizedale, early mornings often bring deer out into the open. Red squirrels can sometimes be seen in the woods too.
The season also brings amazing opportunities for photography. The mix of mist, soft light, and colourful trees creates perfect conditions. Try sunrise walks at Tarn Hows or sunset views from Gummer’s How for some of the best shots.
Guests staying at The Swan Hotel & Spa can often catch beautiful morning mist over the River Leven right from the terrace. For more ideas on where to explore, visit Visit Lake District’s nature and wildlife page.
Autumn Walks in the Lake District
Cooler temperatures and quiet trails make autumn one of the best times to go walking in the Lakes. Whether you’re after a short stroll or a longer climb, there’s something for everyone.
Gummer’s How
Just north of The Swan, Gummer’s How is a short walk with big rewards. The view from the top stretches across Windermere and the southern fells. It’s a great choice for sunrise walks and picnic stops.
Grizedale Forest Trails
With a mix of forest paths and open viewpoints, Grizedale is perfect for families. The Ridding Wood Trail is easy and scenic, while the Carron Crag route offers more of a challenge with panoramic views across the forest.
Rydal Water and Grasmere
A relaxed circular walk that combines lakeside views and woodland paths. It’s also where poet William Wordsworth found inspiration, and in autumn the scenery feels just as timeless.
Events & Festivals in the Lake District During Autumn
Autumn brings plenty of local events to enjoy, from outdoor festivals to cosy village celebrations.
In October, the Kendal Mountain Festival starts to take shape, one of the UK’s best events for outdoor film, adventure, and exploration. In Cartmel and Hawkshead, food markets and beer festivals fill the weekends with local flavours and friendly crowds.
Bonfire Night celebrations light up towns like Windermere, Ambleside, and Ulverston, with fireworks reflecting beautifully over the lakes.
To see what’s on during your stay, check the Visit Lake District events calendar. After a day out, return to The Swan for a warm meal and a drink by the fire.
Must-Visit Festivals
Family-Friendly Ideas for Autumn Days
The Lake District is perfect for family getaways, and autumn adds a little extra charm. There’s plenty to do, rain or shine.
Spend your morning at Fell Foot Park, where kids can play by the lakeshore and enjoy open green space. The Lakes Aquarium, just across the river from The Swan Hotel & Spa, is a fun indoor option for learning about local wildlife.
For half-term fun, visit pumpkin patches at Old Hall Farm in Ulverston or check out storytelling sessions at Brockhole on Windermere.
Back at the hotel, you can relax and enjoy cake in The Swan Inn, or snuggle up in one of our dog-friendly cottages.
Family Breaks
Romantic Autumn Escapes at The Swan
Whether you’re visiting as a couple or with family, The Swan is made for autumn breaks. Couples can unwind in the Holte Spa, dine by candlelight in The Swan Inn, or take quiet walks by the river. The warm atmosphere and views make it easy to relax and switch off.
Families will love being close to the area’s best attractions, the Lakes Aquarium, Grizedale Forest, and Fell Foot Park are all nearby. Our spacious rooms and cottages make it simple for everyone to enjoy their stay, including dogs.
Seasonal food festivals, autumn markets, and bonfire events across Cumbria give you even more to look forward to. After exploring, settle in at The Swan for a comforting meal made with local ingredients and a well-earned rest.
Lake District Activities For Adults & CouplesWhere to Stay for an Autumn Break in the Lake District
If you’re planning to visit the Lake District in autumn, make The Swan your base.
Our riverside hotel combines comfort, good food, and beautiful surroundings. Choose a boutique bedroom or one of our luxury cottages, complete with roll-top baths and wood-burning stoves. Enjoy seasonal dishes in The Swan Inn, then finish your evening with a hot chocolate or glass of wine by the fire.
Whether you’re here for walking, relaxing, or exploring, The Swan Hotel & Spa has everything you need for an unforgettable autumn break in the Lake District.
FAQs About Visiting the Lake District in Autumn
When is the best time to visit the Lake District in autumn?
The best time to visit the Lake District in autumn is between mid-October and early November. This is when the fells and forests are at their most colourful, with vibrant reds, golds, and oranges covering the hillsides. The air is crisp but not too cold, and the summer crowds have long gone, leaving the lakes quiet and calm. It’s also a great time to stay at The Swan Hotel & Spa, where you can enjoy cosy evenings by the fire after a day exploring the golden landscapes.
What are the autumn colours like in the Lake District?
The autumn colours in the Lake District are breathtaking. From late September, the oak and beech trees begin to change, painting the valleys in warm hues of amber, bronze, and russet. Reflections on Windermere, Coniston, and Derwentwater add to the magic, creating mirror-still scenes that look straight out of a painting. For some of the best displays, visit Grizedale Forest, Tarn Hows, or Fell Foot Park, all easily accessible from The Swan.
What are the best autumn walks in the Lake District?
Autumn is one of the most rewarding seasons for walking in the Lakes, with cool air and vivid scenery around every bend. Gummer’s How offers incredible views over Windermere and is just a short drive from The Swan. Grizedale Forest provides miles of woodland trails lined with fiery foliage, while the Rydal Water and Grasmere circuit combines lakeside beauty with Wordsworth’s poetic charm. Each route offers a unique way to experience the Lake District in autumn, peaceful, photogenic, and deeply restorative.
What is the weather like in the Lake District in autumn?
The Lake District in autumn (UK) has a mix of mild days, cool evenings, and occasional showers, it’s a region known for its dramatic skies and soft light. Average daytime temperatures sit between 8°C and 13°C, perfect for walking or exploring. Mist often rolls across the lakes in the mornings, while evenings bring clear skies ideal for stargazing. Just remember to pack layers and waterproofs, the weather changes quickly here, but that’s what gives the landscape its mood and beauty.
What are the best things to do on a rainy autumn day in the Lake District?
A rainy day in the Lake District is far from wasted, in fact, it’s part of the charm. Warm up with a spa session at Holte Spa, where candlelight and thermal pools create the perfect retreat from the weather. Visit the Lakes Aquarium just across the river from The Swan, or explore Cartmel Village, famous for its cobbled streets, artisan shops, and sticky toffee pudding. When you’re ready to unwind, return to The Swan for a hearty meal and a fireside drink.
Is November a good time to visit the Lake District?
Yes, November is one of the most peaceful and atmospheric months to visit. While the weather can be cooler and wetter, the Lake District in November offers quiet trails, golden light, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find in summer. Attractions and walks remain open, and it’s a fantastic time for photography, relaxation, and reflective getaways. After a crisp morning walk, nothing beats returning to a roaring fire, a glass of wine, and the comfort of The Swan’s riverside rooms.
Where should I stay for an autumn break in the Lake District?
For comfort, location, and atmosphere, The Swan Hotel & Spa in Newby Bridge is one of the best places to stay in autumn. Nestled beside the River Leven, it offers boutique rooms, luxury self-catering cottages, and a tranquil on-site spa. Enjoy morning walks by the lake, afternoon tea by the fire, and hearty dinners at The Swan Inn. It’s everything you could want from a Lake District autumn break, scenic, restful, and full of seasonal charm.
