20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September (2025)
Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole
The United Kingdom is comprised of four countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They offer beautiful scenery, charming villages, architectural treasures, and thrilling cities to explore. You also have the choice of stunning beaches on which to relax, walk, and in September, feel the last of the late summer warmth. If you love to hike and uncover hidden lakes, mountains and untouched islands, then Great Britain also offers countless national parks, country paths and small islands to discover. As the days get cooler and leaves start to change into their brilliant fall colours of red, burnt orange and yellow, where should you go? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in the UK in September.
This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.
Other Options
For other fantastic places to visit in the United Kingdom, please see:
Best Places To Visit In The United Kingdom For A September Getaway
Here are 20 of the best places to visit in the Uk for a late summer or early fall vacation. I describe where they are located and why they are fantastic destinations to explore. In addition, the best things to do are highlighted, expected weather is set out, and the best ways to reach it are outlined. Overall, you will be excited by the choices and amazed at what awaits you in this beautiful part of the world.
Nottingham, England
Nowhere in Great Britain will give you that warm cozy feeling that autumn has arrived like visiting Nottingham in September.
Being the home to Robin Hood, a trip to Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve should be at the top of your itinerary. Admire the fall foliage, watch the vibrant leaves fall and stroll through the forest that is steeped in history.
To experience more of the local legend that was Robin Hood, book the Ezekial Bone’s Robin Hood Tour to be led around the city by an in-character local expert and see the locations made famous by the legends of Robin Hood.
If people-watching is your thing, there is no better place than Old Market Square! It is the largest public square in the UK after Trafalgar in London and there is always something going on. The international market is held Wednesday to Saturday during the month of September and is definitely worth a trip.
However, one of the most unique things to do in Nottingham is actually underground! Take a trip to the City of Caves, the UK’s largest network of caves, to explore the history of the city from a whole new level.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 64 °F to 51 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The closest airport to Nottingham is the East Midlands Airport, a 30 minute drive. Alternatively, take the train 2 hours from London.
Hotel Recommendation
Gamston Lock, Nottingham by Marston’s Inns
Isle of Wight, England
The Isle of Wight is a picturesque island located just off the south coast of England. It is a popular summer spot so visiting for a September holiday allows you to get some of the last of the warm weather and sunshine without the crowds that come in July and August.
If you love coastal life, then this is the place for you. The Isle of Wight offers a fantastic British beach experience. Areas like Ventnor, Sandown and Shanklin have huge sandy beaches with fish and chip shops, British pubs and cute beach huts.
Other than the beach, the list of things to do on the Isle of Wight is endless! From theme parks, go-karting, medieval castles and museums, you will not struggle to fill your time.
If you are visiting the Isle of Wight with kids, Tapnell Farm is always a hit! Not only can you meet the farm’s resident furry friends but the actual farm itself has some of the best views on the island.
Tapnell Farm also has some glamping accommodation options. Isle of Wight is known for its star gazing and what better way to watch the starry night than in the outdoors in a comfortable bed!
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 57 °F to 48 °F with about 13 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly into London, take the 1 hour 40 minutes train to Portsmouth and then catch the short ferry to the Isle of Wight. After that, it’s best to rent a car to explore the island.
Hotel Recommendation
Dinorwig, Wales
Dinorwig (or Dinorwic) is a charming village in the northwest of Wales, just above Snowdonia, famous for its slate quarry. It is one of the best places to visit in the UK in September.
Dinorwig is the epitome of Welsh culture and the locals are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Expect to greet everyone wherever you go as you walk along paths, have a pint at the pub, or explore the small local shops.
The National Slate Museum is free to enter and teaches visitors the history of the slate quarry. This includes when it was in use and how the industry was ingrained in the country’s culture and infrastructure.
Beyond the museum, Dinorwic Quarry is beautiful to walk around. Simply start from the car park and follow the marked trail to Allt Ddu. Continue following the route through several old buildings and you will eventually come to Dinorwig viewpoint where you can look out all the way to Snowdon.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 61 °F to 52 °F with about 11 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly into Manchester airport, rent a car and drive 2.5 hours to Dinorwig.
Hotel Recommendation
Royal Victoria Hotel Snowdonia
The Cotswolds, England
The Cotswolds is probably the most quintessentially British place you can visit in the UK. Located in the southwest of England, the Cotswolds is actually quite big and covers 5 different counties. The area is known for its quaint villages filled with old cottages and the beautiful British countryside.
Due to its size, the best thing to do when visiting the Cotswolds is to just explore! Try to visit as many villages, town squares and local markets as possible. Go on country walks and enjoy the quiet surroundings and fresh air.
In September, it will be quieter with lovely weather offering you the opportunity to explore without the crowds. In addition, you will be rewarded with stunning views of fall foliage later in the month.
A couple must-see destinations are the charming villages of Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water.
Bibury is home to the famous Arlington Row, a street filled with adorable cottages and Bourton-on-the-Water feels like you have travelled back in time as the houses and streets are hundreds of years old. There is a beautiful walk along the river and the village’s bridges.
The Cotswolds has some amazing spas and country houses with the most popular being Calcot Manor Hotel and Spa.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 49 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Although it is possible to get to the Cotswolds by public transport, you will likely want to hire a car in order to explore all that the area has to offer. From London, the Cotswolds is around a two hours drive.
Hotel Recommendation
Lerwick, Scotland (Shetland Islands)
Shetland is a group of islands located 130 miles (210km) off the shore of northern Scotland and Lerwick is the island’s only town. It is one of the best destinations to visit in the United Kingdom for a September vacation.
Lerwick is stunning in all weathers. On a sunny day, you can see far out to sea and enjoy the clear turquoise waters, but on stormy days you can watch the huge waves hitting the cliffs and the shifting skies. Lucky for you, in September you will likely experience both kinds of weather!
A lot of people visit Lerwick to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. There are many areas on the island where you can’t even get a phone signal or electricity, making it the perfect remote retreat.
Explore Clickimin Broch, an example of stone built white round houses found only in Scotland, evidence of settlers thousands of years ago.
Walk, explore or book a nature tour to discover the island’s range of wildlife including rare birds, whales, otters, and seals.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 55 °F to 49 °F with about 12 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly to Sumburgh Airport and either catch the bus or rent a car for the 33-minute drive.
Hotel Recommendation
Plymouth, England
Plymouth is the largest city on England’s south coast. It is part of beautiful Devon, a historical city with hundreds of years of maritime history.
Every year in September, hundreds of people from both Devon and Cornwall flock to Plymouth harbor, The Barbican, every year to enjoy the annual Seafood and Harbour Festival.
Food vendors and fishermen fill the city offering fresh local seafood, with cooking and fishing demonstrations. The Paella and fresh oyster stands have huge queues every year so be sure to get in line before you get too hungry!
If you fancy a tipple, head to the Plymouth Gin Distillery for a guided tour or some delicious cocktails at the Refectory bar.
Spend a day on Plymouth Hoe. With panoramic views of the Plymouth Sound, you can see all the way to Cornwall. Make sure you visit the remarkable lighthouse, Smeaton’s Tower, built in 1759. You can climb to the top and admire spectacular views of the coast and the ocean.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 53 °F with about 8 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
You can fly into Bristol airport and drive 2-hours or take a 4-hours train ride from London. .
Hotel Recommendation
Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
This famous coastline spans 30 miles along the northern coast of Northern Ireland overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean. It is the perfect September break location in the UK. Rain or shine, the coastline has ample things to do.
An obvious draw to the area is The Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland’s famous Unesco World Heritage Site. The Causeway is a breathtaking series of hexagonal rock columns emerging from the Ocean created by lava 6 million years ago. You are free to explore them as you wish, climbing and stepping from the shore out to the ocean.
Carrick-a-Rede is a pretty swinging rope bridge that you cross that connects the mainland to the tiny island off the coast. You have a relaxing walk with spectacular views along a paved coastal path to and from the bridge.
Crossing the bridge itself takes a bit of courage as you are 100 ft above the water, with crashing waves and large rocks below. However, it is safe and very exciting.
If the weather isn’t too kind, the Causeway Coast has an array of museums and galleries that are worth a visit.
The Causeway Coast Discovery Centre is the perfect way to learn about the history of the people and the architecture of the area before sampling some delicious homemade scones and tea in the loft.
Another popular attraction in the area is Old Bushmills Distillery located in County Antrim. This is where Bushmills Irish whiskey has been made since 1608 using water from their own stream. Take a tour, learn its history and distilling process, and of course, sample some of their products.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 59 °F to 49 °F with about 12 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to get to the coastline would be to fly into Belfast airport and rent a car.
Hotel Recommendation
Lake District National Park, England
The Lake District is England’s largest National Park, located in Cumbria, in the northwest of England.
September is an ideal time to visit the Lake District as you can witness the changing of seasons while you enjoy the beautiful natural and scenic landscape.
Hiking and walking through the autumnal forests and around the lakes is the best way to experience the area. The area has endless trails of all lengths and difficulties including multi-day trails. The most popular trail is Fairfield Horseshoe which takes around 5.5 hours and offers dramatic grassy hills with great views over Helvellyn.
Early autumn is the prime foraging season so you will find a lot of people out looking for berries, nuts, and mushrooms. They then offer their produce at the many food, and harvest festivals and markets hosted around Cumbria. The most popular being Keswick Outdoor Market, open Thursdays and Saturdays, and Kendal Indoor Market, open on Mondays.
The best way to explore the Lake District is to pick a few areas and travel between them by car. The most popular areas to use as a base are the market towns of Ambleside and Keswick, two pretty towns with great access to other areas of Lake District National Park.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 59 °F to 49 °F with about 11 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly into London and take a 3.5 hour train to Oxenholme. Alternatively, rent a car and drive 5 hours to the Lake District.
Hotel Recommendation
Bridge House Hotel & Silver Howe View Cottage
Aberystwyth, Wales
Aberystwyth is a bustling university town located in the middle of the Ceredigion coastline in mid-Wales. It is a fantastic destination to spend time in the United Kingdom in September.
You simply cannot visit Aberystwyth without a little trip on the cliff railway! This electric cliff railway is the oldest in the UK and has been running since the 1800s. If you can catch a ride at the perfect time, the top of the cliff is a great spot to watch the beautiful sunset over the horizon.
Another must-visit is Aberystwyth Castle. Located on the seafront and dominating the landscape of the area, the first version of this castle was actually built in the early 12th century. Today you can walk around the castle ruins, through old rooms, and up the tower.
Arguably, the pier and promenade are the main draws to the town. The pier itself goes right out to sea and offers great restaurants and bars, and even an arcade. The promenade is always lively and the personality of the area really shines here.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 53 °F with about 10 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly into Birmingham and take the train 3 hours.
Hotel Recommendation
If you are open to considering other places around the world, here are some other fantastic destinations that would be great to visit in September:
Leeds, England
Leeds is a city in Yorkshire, often skipped when people think of the best cities to visit in the UK. However, the amount of tourism in the area is increasing and for good reason.
Leeds is an awesome city. It is lively, full of great shopping, and has a great mix of modern and historic architecture.
Take a guided or self guided walking tour and see the best of the city’s shopping arcades and the rest of Leeds’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. Those include the Town Hall which was the town’s power house, Kirkgate Market and Leeds City Variety Music Hall, a working theatre that is the nation’s oldest which opened in 1865.
A great day trip from Leeds would be a 25 minutes northwest drive from the city center to Kirkstall Abbey. The medieval Cistercian Abbey is surrounded by beautiful greenery and is interesting to explore. The Visitor Center shares the fascinating history of the 12th-century monks that occupied it.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 50 °F with about 8 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Leeds is quite easily accessible from any airport in the north of England. However, Leeds Bradford airport is the most convenient as you can jump straight into a taxi into the city center.
Hotel Recommendation
Dundee, Scotland
Dundee is a small city in eastern Scotland and one of the best places in the Uk for a September getaway.
Dundee is often skipped over by tourists due to the popularity of Edinburgh and Glasgow which is a shame. Dundee truly has so much to offer.
One of the city’s top attractions is The RRS Discovery. The Discovery Museum tells the ship’s story of its exploration of Antarctica for research in 1901 and its harrowing journey. You can climb aboard the ship and explore.
In addition make sure you visit the Old Steeple, Dundee’s oldest building dating back to the 1490s and the beautiful 19th century St Paul’s Cathedral.
During your Dundee trip, head out onto the water to see this beautiful city from a different perspective. From the river you can see the famous Tay Rail Bridge, one of the most recognisable landmarks in Dundee with a tragic past. In the late 19th century, during a terrible storm, the bridge collapsed when a railway passenger train was passing over it, killing everyone on board.
Dundee is also home to some amazing wildlife including The Tay dolphin pod and the Tentsmuir seal colony.
After a day of exploring, head to the city’s main square, Albert Square, and find a table at one of the many cool bars and restaurants nearby for some great people watching.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 60 °F to 47 °F with about 9 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Fly into Aberdeen, Edinburgh, or Glasgow, rent a car and drive just over an hour.
Hotel Recommendation
Blackpool, England
Blackpool is the ultimate seaside destination in the UK. Visiting in September will help you skip the summer crowds while still enjoying the last of the summer sun.
That being said, people head to Blackpool in September every year to watch the famous Blackpool illuminations being turned on for the first time, as well as the World Championship Fireworks which continue every Friday for the whole month.
There truly is no better way to spend an evening in Blackpool than sitting along the promenade with some fish and chips and watching ‘The Lights’ turn on.
An obvious must-do for any trip to Blackpool is Blackpool Pleasure Beach and the Pleasure Beach Amusement Park. Be sure to purchase a fast pass ticket to ensure you can ride as many of the attractions as possible.
Blackpool as a city has excellent public transport making it easy to get around without your own vehicle. In fact, a trip on the tram is an activity in of itself and can take you down the full stretch of the coastline as well as around the city center.
Whether you visit the Opera House, the beautiful Winter Gardens, or go to the top of Blackpool Tower, you will not struggle to find amazing things to do in Blackpool in September.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 51 °F with about 10 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The best way to visit Blackpool would be to fly to either London or Manchester, then take the train 1.5 hours from Manchester or 3 hours from London.
Hotel Recommendation
Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Located in the Scottish Highlands is the largest national park in the whole of the United Kingdom, Cairngorms National Park.
If you are a fan of water sports, August and September are the best months to visit as the water is at its warmest. White water rafting, kayaking, water sledding, tubing, SUPing, and much more, Cairngorms has endless amounts of water activities. In addition, the annual triathlon is held in September and an inspiring event to watch.
For people who prefer to be on land, Cairngorms is the perfect hiking trip for a September break. With trails of all lengths and difficulties, there will be a scenic route for everyone in lovely weather suitable for outdoor adventures.
One of the most popular walks in the park is The Falls of Bruar. This is an easy hike at only a mile and a half long but really packs a punch! It includes two bridges and two impressive waterfalls. The steep path can get slippery so be careful on rainy days and pack decent hiking boots.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 56 °F to 43 °F with about 10 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to get to Cairngorms National Park is to fly to Inverness, rent a car, and drive 30-minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into London and take the sleeper train to Inverness.
Hotel Recommendation
Macdonald Highlands Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort
Norwich, England
Nothing will get you more ready for fall than a trip to the beautiful city of Norwich, one of the best cities to visit in Great Britain in autumn. This historic city has 32 medieval churches, an array of cobbled streets, and endless amounts of ancient buildings.
Visit Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery to get a taste of some of the architecture for which the city is famous. The castle is 900 years old and the nearby art gallery was once the city’s prison in the Victorian era.
To fully embrace the start of those darker chillier evenings, book a Norwich Ghost Walk. It takes you on a trip around the most haunted areas by an in-character guide to hear about some of the less talked about history of the city. Those include stunning Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle and Elm Hill. Make sure you watch and listen for poltergeists and other signs of ghosts!
If a spooky walk isn’t your cup of tea, then take a stroll in the daytime around Eaton Park. Eaton Park is easily reached from the city center and features 80 acres of beautiful greenery, a children’s play park, and even crazy golf.
And of course, a must-do activity in Norwich is the city’s infamous Pub and Paddle. Rent a canoe and paddle through the city, stopping off at some of the area’s local riverside pubs on the way.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 66 °F to 51 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Norwich is only a couple of hours’ drive from Luton, Stansted, and London City airports.
Hotel Recommendation
Guernsey, British Isles
Guernsey is an island in the British Isles between England and France that is sometimes overlooked by people looking for a September vacation in and around Great Britain. While you should definitely try to explore more of the island, St Peters Port is what the locals call ‘town’ and is a great base for a trip.
St Peter Port is home to some of the island’s top-rated restaurants and sampling some of the island’s seafood is a must-do for any trip to Guernsey. Check out The Hook, a sushi bar to try some of the island’s best fresh fish!
Other top attractions in Guernsey include Hauteville House, Victor Hugo’s former home, where he wrote the award-winning Les Miserables. The huge house is 5 floors high and has not been updated since it was decorated by the poet himself in the early 19th century.
Castle Cornet sits on the harbor in Guernsey on the southern arm of St Peter Port and houses 5 museums and 4 gardens. From Easter until the end of September, the castle hosts live history performances, a fun show for both adults and children.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 64 °F to 57 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to reach St Peter Port is to fly from London Gatwick.
Hotel Recommendation
Bournemouth, England
Bournemouth is one of the best places in Great Britain to go for a September holiday. While it’s a wonderful seaside town all year round, the crowds in July and August can sometimes make it too overcrowded to really appreciate the area.
The annual Arts by the Sea Festival runs through September and into October and is not one to be missed. Every year there is a different theme and an assortment of pop-up interactive exhibits are installed throughout the town.
If you are traveling to Bournemouth as a family, take a day trip to Paultons Park, an amusement park that is also home to the famous Peppa Pig!
And for all the adrenaline junkies, there is a zip line that goes from pier to pier in Bournemouth
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 65 °F to 50 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to get to Bournemouth is to fly into a London airport and then take the train 2 hours.
Hotel Recommendation
Gower Peninsula, Wales
Gower is situated in the southeast of Wales and extends westwards along the coast for 19 miles starting in Mumbles. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and sandy beaches. It was actually named the United Kingdom’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Obviously, the number one way to spend your time for a September trip to the Gower Peninsula is to go on a waterfront walk. Grab your hiking shoes and enjoy some of the most amazing views in the country.
The most popular walk in the area takes you from Langland Bay to Caswell Bay. This two mile stroll is well pathed along the coast with multiple stops including some nice cafes along the beach.
For the adventurous folks, Gower is a great place to try your hand at rock climbing at the famous Three Cliffs Bay and see views from a whole new level!
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 52 °F with about 10 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to get to the Gower Peninsula is to fly straight into Cardiff Airport and travel by car or coach 2 hours to Swansea.
Hotel Recommendation
The Mirador Boutique Town House
Kent, England
Kent is one of the best areas in the UK to visit in September. It is located in the southeast of England.
There is an array of festivities that take place annually in Kent including cider festivals, harvest festivals, and the famous Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival located in Maidstone. Here you can handpick hops, listen to live music, and sample some of the area’s own ale and cider.
No trip to Kent is complete without exploring Leeds Castle, built in 857 and once home to Catherine of Aragon!
If you enjoy history, another must-do is a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, the first Church of England built in 597, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 65 °F to 53 °F with about 7 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
Kent is an hour’s train ride from London.
Hotel Recommendation
Holiday Inn Maidstone-Sevenoaks
Fort William, Scotland
Said to be the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom, Fort William located in the west Scottish highlands makes the perfect September vacation in Great Britain.
With its close proximity to Ben Nevis (the highest peak in Britain), Fort William is an ideal place to go if you want to enjoy some of the amazing outdoor activities offered in Scotland. From climbing Ben Nevis to mountain biking and hiking, Fort William offers it all.
Visiting in September means you might be lucky enough to catch a game of Shinty, a gaelic sport played in the Scottish Highlands. In fact, the Camanachd Cup Final is always played in September and brings a lot of excitement to the area.
Another draw to this part of Scotland is the beautiful skies and the possibility of being able to see the Northern Lights. Stay overnight under the stars in specialized wigwams, away from the city lights, in almost complete darkness, and view rare glimpses of the milky way.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 58 °F to 48 °F with about 15 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The easiest way to get to Fort William is to fly into either Glasgow or Edinburgh and drive around 2.5 hours.
Hotel Recommendation
Middlesbrough, England
While Middlesbrough will unlikely be top of many people’s list of places in the UK to visit, it is a great representation of the Northeast of England.
Middlesbrough is a town south of the River Tees in Yorkshire and traditionally an industrial town built on former steel and coal mining. However, it is now more of a university town with its ever-popular Teesside University.
By far the most popular activity for tourists in Middlesbrough is to bungee jump off the town’s most recognizable landmark, Transporter Bridge. Middlesbrough has one of only 11 transporter bridges left in the world and was the first commercial bungee jump spot in the UK.
Teesmouth Nature Reserve is a unique area, a large green space, surrounded by industrial plants and a power station splitting the reserve into two parts. Despite the heavy industry, the reserve is visited by 20,000 individual waterfowl annually.
If you are lucky enough to be in Middlesbrough on the last Saturday of the month, you can attend Orange Pip Market for great food, watch some live performances and enjoy a nice cold pint of beer.
Directions
The best way to get to Middlesbrough would be to fly into Manchester airport and take the 2.5 hours train ride east to the town.
Weather
In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 50 °F with about 8 days of rain.
Best Way To Reach Destination
The best way to get to Middlesbrough would be to fly into Manchester airport and take the 2.5 hours train ride east to the town.
Hotel Recommendation
Last Word
The United Kingdom offers many wonderful destinations to visit and explore in September. You get the best of both worlds. The warmth of the late summer sun, and the beginning of crisp winter nights and brightly colored autumnal leaves falling from the trees. Whether you want to visit charming small villages, hike along country paths or in mountains, feel the sand between your toes, discover ancient castles and cathedrals, or find exciting museums, shopping and a great night life, you will not be disappointed with your choices.