As the golden leaves fall and the crisp autumn air begins to settle over the city, London transforms into a fairytale destination. Whether you’re strolling through royal grounds, sipping tea with a view, or chasing magic in the countryside, autumn is the perfect time to soak in all the charm that London and its surroundings have to offer.

Here’s your ultimate guide for the top things to do in and around London this autumn…

Day Trip to Windsor Castle

Step into centuries of British history with a day trip to Windsor Castle. Explore the State Apartments, the majestic castle grounds, admire the intricate gothic beauty of St. George’s Chapel, pay your respects to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and enjoy free time in the charming town of Windsor.

Buckingham Palace and Afternoon Tea
Step inside the official residence of the British monarch with a self-guided visit to Buckingham Palace, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the exquisite State Rooms, see the lavish furnishings, and discover royal treasures on display during the palace’s seasonal opening. After your royal experience, continue the elegance with a traditional afternoon tea the nearby luxury hotel, The Wellington, complete with finger sandwiches, warm scones, and delicate pastries. A perfectly British way to spend an autumn afternoon in London!

To note: Buckingham Palace is only open to visitors for 10 weeks during the year and closes for tours at the end of September.

Lift 109 at Battersea Power Station
Experience London from new heights with a visit to Lift 109, the glass elevator that takes you to the top of Battersea Power Station’s iconic chimney. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Thames and skyline — especially magical in the golden autumn light.

English Afternoon Tea Bus
Climb aboard a double-decker bus and enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea, complete with sandwiches, pastries, and scones, whilst touring London’s most iconic landmarks. This is a fun, quirky way to explore the city while staying warm and well-fed on cooler days.

Day Trip to the Cotswolds
Escape to the storybook villages of the Cotswolds, where cobblestone streets and ivy-covered cottages come alive in the autumn glow. Guided tours make it easy to explore multiple villages in one day without the hassle of driving. Expect plenty of photo ops, cozy pubs, and rolling countryside views along the way.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Step into the world of Harry Potter on a behind-the-scenes studio tour that’s especially atmospheric in autumn. The Great Hall is often decked out for Halloween, and the Forbidden Forest feels extra enchanting on a chilly day. Tours from London typically include transport, making it easy to experience the magic without stress.