There’s something about October in London that feels different. The air gets crisper, the sunlight softer, and the city itself seems to slow down just a bit, like it’s catching its breath after the hustle of summer. This is the time of year when London becomes its most beautiful—when parks and streets are wrapped in shades of gold and orange, and every corner feels like an autumn postcard. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the city this time of year, let me take you on a walk through some of the best places to truly soak in the season.
Richmond Hill: Autumn Views That Take Your Breath Away
Richmond Hill, perched just above the famous Richmond Park, feels like stepping into a painting. The trees are ablaze with autumn hues, and the view stretches out over the River Thames, with rolling hills and clusters of trees that seem to glow in the October light. Take a slow walk down the hill, and you’ll find yourself at Petersham Nurseries, a charming spot where the plants and flowers seem to mirror the season. There’s a calming stillness here that makes it feel miles away from the city’s bustle. Further along, Ham House, with its centuries-old walls, is framed by autumn’s palette, adding to the quiet, timeless beauty of the place.
St James’s Park: Autumn Reflections by the Lake
In the heart of London, St James’s Park is a place I always find myself coming back to. There’s a bridge that crosses the lake, and if you stand in the middle and look east towards Horse Guards Parade, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. The trees along the water’s edge are aflame with oranges, reds, and yellows, and the historic buildings in the distance seem even more majestic when framed by autumn’s colours. There’s a peace to be found here, even in the heart of the city, as the leaves crunch underfoot and ducks glide lazily across the water.
Kyoto Garden, Holland Park: A Peaceful Autumn Retreat
If you’ve never been to Kyoto Garden in Holland Park, October is the time to go. This little Japanese garden is a hidden gem, tucked away in the middle of the park, and in autumn, it’s like stepping into another world. The fiery reds and golds of the Japanese maples are absolutely stunning, reflecting in the calm water of the pond. There’s a quiet here that’s hard to find anywhere else in the city, and the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze only adds to the sense of tranquillity. It’s one of those places that feels like it was made for reflection, where the world slows down just for a moment.
St Dunstan-in-the-East: A Ruin Reclaimed by Autumn
Sometimes, the most beautiful places are the ones where nature has taken over. That’s exactly what you’ll find at St Dunstan-in-the-East. This ruined church, with its ivy-clad walls and empty windows, has been transformed into a haven for anyone looking for a peaceful escape. In October, the vines turn fiery shades of orange and red, wrapping around the ancient stone in a way that feels both haunting and beautiful. It’s a place where history and nature meet, and as you sit in the quiet, you can almost feel the city’s heartbeat slowing down around you.
Hampstead Heath: The City’s Best Autumn View
There’s nowhere quite like Hampstead Heath in autumn. This vast green space, just a short journey from central London, offers some of the best views of the city, but it’s the golden trees and crisp air that make it truly special this time of year. One of my favourite spots is the Hampstead Pergola and Hill Garden. It’s a hidden corner of the Heath, with crumbling stone arches and overgrown vines, and in autumn, it feels like you’ve stumbled into a forgotten world. From here, the view stretches out over the treetops, with the colours of the season spread out before you.
Little Venice: A Quiet Autumn Canal Stroll
For a quieter, more intimate autumn walk, head to Little Venice. This peaceful stretch of canal, lined with colourful houseboats and framed by autumn leaves, feels like a different world entirely. There’s something about walking along the water, with the rich reds and yellows reflected in the canal, that’s incredibly calming. It’s a slower pace of life here, and as you wander past the boats, you’ll feel the city slipping away behind you.
Regent’s Park: A Golden Autumn Oasis
Regent’s Park is another of London’s great green spaces, and in October, it turns into a golden oasis. Start your walk at Regent’s Canal near Paddington, and you’ll be greeted by trees heavy with autumn leaves, their branches reaching out over the water. The colours are breathtaking, and the quiet paths through the park offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle. There’s a gentle rhythm to the park in autumn—people strolling slowly, couples sitting on benches wrapped in scarves, and squirrels darting about collecting acorns. It’s London at its most serene.
Old Admiralty, Horse Guards Parade: History Draped in Autumn Leaves
There’s something magical about seeing London’s historic buildings covered in autumn leaves, and nowhere is that more true than at the Old Admiralty near Horse Guards Parade. The grand, stately walls of the building are draped in golden vines, creating a stunning contrast between the past and the present. As the leaves fall, they scatter across the cobblestones, adding a touch of autumn’s elegance to one of the city’s most iconic spots.
London in October—A City Dressed in Gold
October in London is more than just a month—it’s a feeling. It’s the crisp air, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, and the way the city’s landmarks seem to glow in the autumn light. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Richmond or finding peace in the quiet corners of St Dunstan-in-the-East, there’s no better time to explore the city. So, wrap up warm, grab a hot drink, and take a walk through London’s autumn—it’s a season that’s meant to be savoured.
