When September arrives, there's no better place to be than the UK. With golden leaves, crisp air, and serene landscapes, autumn brings a special charm to our shores. From vibrant cities to tranquil villages, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in September in the UK. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a longer family trip, or a relaxing break before autumn settles in fully, you’ll find something on our list of the best places to visit in the UK in September.
1. Sperrin, Northern Ireland
Let’s start this list of the best places to visit in the UK in September with one of the lesser-known options: Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s considered to be one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets, and visiting in September gives you a chance to enjoy some decent Irish weather. Sperrin is one of our favourite weekend breaks near Belfast, and it could easily combined with a trip to the capital city itself.
Things to do in Sperrin:
-Nowadays, visiting Stone Henge is slightly overrated and overpriced. So, if you’re hoping to see a mystical stone circle, head to Sperrin instead. More than 90 sets of stone circles dating back to the Bronze Age have been unearthed. The most famous are the Beaghmore Stone Circles. Unfortunately, their meaning has been lost over the centuries, but they are aligned to the movement of the sun, moon, and stars.
-Sperrin is a popular destination for cyclists, who flock here to explore the many winding trails around this peat-bog country. For an easy route, try the Davagh Forest Loop, starting in Pomeroy. You can also finish with some lunch in this small village. For an intermediate ride, try the Gortin Glen Forest Park route or the Omagh Loop from Mountfield, which takes you along the Camowen River.
-If you don’t fancy cycling, there are plenty of other ways to explore this stunning region. You can rent horses to trek around this AONB or get a bird's eye view by parachuting or gliding above Magilligan Point. We also recommend heading out for a classic hike, such as climbing to the highest peaks of the Sperrin Mountains. The highest peaks of Sawel, Mullaclogher, and Mullaghaneany all exceed 2,000 feet, filled with heather and glens and capped with crystalline limestone. We promise the view will make the effort worth it!
2. Shropshire Hills, England
Time for another Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but this time it's located in England. Filled with medieval castles, majestic manors, idyllic villages, market towns and a fascinating history regarding the Industrial Revolution, Shropshire is filled with great things to do in September in the UK. It’s considered one of the best weekend breaks from Birmingham and is ideally located on the Welsh-English border.
Things to do in Shropshire:
-The Shropshire Hills are often called the jewels in the crown of Shropshire, so there’s no better way to start your time here than with some good ol’ fashioned hillwalking. For an easy walk, head to Onny Meadows, the Bog Mine or Carding Mill Valley. For something a little more challenging, try your hand at The Wrekin, Shropshire’s iconic hill.
-If it’s a little too hot for a hike, or you’re just searching for a unique activity to please everyone, then look no further than Shropshire Raft Tours. You can explore Shropshire’s natural waterways with canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and more. Ideally, you’d follow this with a tour and tasting at the award-winning Shropshire Distillery.
-Shropshire has been greatly shaped by its history, so take the time to dive into the past of this forgotten region. The Soldiers of Shropshire Museum will guide you through nearly 300 years of British Army Evolution, detailing the campaigns and sacrifices of Shropshire Soldiers. For something unusual yet powerful, The Shrewsbury Prison is a recently decommissioned Victorian jail where you can learn about life here for the prisoners and guards — it was recently voted one of the Best Dark Tourism sites in the world.
3. Isle of Harris, Scotland
There are plenty of incredible islands to choose from in Scotland’s Hebrides, but for sandy beaches and unbelievable walking routes, the Isle of Harris is the best pick. If you’re still struggling to decide where to go in September in the UK and you enjoy active holidays, roads less travelled, and wild swimming, then this is the place for you. The Isle of Harris features a dramatic contrast of landscapes, with rugged mountains and rocky coastlines in the north giving way to vast, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters in the south – almost like two destinations in one! The island is a stunning blend of natural beauty, offering rolling moorlands, serene lochs, and vibrant machair.
Things to do on the Isle of Harris:
-Naturally, we’ll recommend a distillery for those of you who drink alcohol. Located in Tarbert, the Harris Distillery is famous for its Isle of Harris Gin, infused with local botanicals like sugar kelp. You’ll get to learn about the gin-making process, sample their products, and purchase a bottle or two as a souvenir.
-Not only is Luskentyre known to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the Isle of Harris, but it is also considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its white sands and turquoise waters, there’s no better place to catch the final rays of summer. We recommend visiting at low tide to enjoy this beach at its best.
-Wildlife enthusiasts and hikers alike will appreciate the North Harris Eagle Observatory. The observatory is located in a remote part of North Harris, offering a chance to spot golden eagles in their natural habitat. But like they say, it’s about the journey, not the destination, and this journey is an incredible one. The walk will take you through the surrounding mountains and valley, with great views of the island’s rugged natural beauty.
4. Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Wales
This list of where to go in September in the UK wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Wales, and after much deliberation, we’ve chosen the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley for this. Home to historic towns and villages, heather-clad hills, dramatic summits, sprawling woodland, and ancient forts, it truly is one of the most underrated landscapes in Wales. It’s far less busy than Eryri and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, and might be even more beautiful — we’ll let you decide!
Things to do in the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley:
-You’re in Wales, so you’ve naturally got countless options for visiting castles in this region, including Flint, Rhuddlan, Beaumaris, Harlech, and Caernarfon. But if we had to pick just one, it would be Conwy Castle, which was built between 1283 and 1289 as part of a wider project to create the walled town of Conwy. It was built by Edward I, during his conquest of Wales, and has remained in remarkable condition.
-Coed Llandegla is a privately owned forest park located at the southeast end of the Clwydian Range and attracts over 200,000 keen cyclists each year. Alongside trails suitable for varying abilities, you’ll find a skills area to perfect your techniques on jumps, berms and timber bridges.
-Explore the stunning Vale of Llangollen. You can take a ride on the steam train, the horse-drawn canal boat, or a trip over the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This region has a rich Georgian history, which you can discover more about at Plas Newydd, the home of the Ladies of Llangollen. Follow a stroll through these ornate gardens with a treat in the delightful tearoom.
5. Tynemouth, England
Summer isn’t over until the autumn leaves start falling, and it’ll certainly feel like summer in the gorgeous coastal town of Tynemouth. It’s beloved by wild swimmers, who flock here throughout the year for a refreshing yet cold dip in its clear waters. This seaside town is steeped in history and features great cultural exhibits, as well as delicious drinks and food. It’s a bustling town, but you’ll still find little havens of peace and quiet dotted around, such as at Percy Park or King Edward’s Bay.
Things to do in Tynemouth:
-Are you one of those adventurers willing to brave the cold British waters? This is the perfect chance, as Tynemouth is one of the most popular places to go surfing in the UK. You can take surfing and windsurfing lessons at Tynemouth Surf Co and Longsands Surf School. If you’re not too keen on getting in the water, opt for canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding instead.
-Aside from surfers, Tynemouth has a tendency to attract history buffs. You can visit the remains of Tynemouth Priory and Castle, a medieval Benedictine priory perched on a hill. It features over 2000 years of history, including the burial of three kings, making it a sacred place of pilgrimage.
-Spend some time at the beach. Before autumn and winter hit, and take the last of our tan and vitamin D with them, enjoy a lazy afternoon at the beach. Tynemouth is home to three great beaches. Longsands is home to long stretches of golden sand, hence the name, but is the busiest of the three. Alternatively, King Edward’s Bay and Priors Haven are a little more secluded, and just as beautiful.
6. Swansea, Wales
This is the perfect city break for fans of Liverpool and Manchester — the cities, not the football teams, although the Swans aren’t too shabby either. Swansea is the second largest city in Wales, known for its nightlife, maritime history, and as the birthplace of the beloved poet Dylan Thomas. Swansea is set on a wide sandy bay facing the south, and is also popular with art lovers, thanks to The Glynn Vivian Art Gallery.
Things to do in Swansea:
-Time to do a bit of damage to your bank account by visiting Swansea Market, which offers an array of local produce, crafts, and other goods. Don’t worry, everything is very reasonably priced here.
-As mentioned, Swansea is known as the birthplace of Dylan Thomas, who is remembered for incredible works like ‘Under Milk Wood’ and ‘Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night.’ The Dylan Thomas Centre commemorates the 20th-century writer with interactive displays and changing exhibits.
-Consider heading to the Gower Peninsula after your time in Swansea. It’s home to over 1,200 archaeological sites, which include caves, medieval castles, Iron Age forts, churches, and more. At the well-preserved Weobley Castle, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the Gower salt marshes and the mainland beyond. Finally, tackle the cold water with an afternoon spent coasteering. You’ll get to enjoy a different view of the coastline with cliff jumping, swimming, and exploring caves.
7. Liverpool, England
This is such a classic British city trip and one of the best places to visit in the UK in September. Liverpool has been shaped by its rich Beatles history, but there’s more to the city than this mega-talented band. A famous maritime city, Liverpool is where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea, so we recommend taking a ferry cruise along the coastline to see the city in its best light and marvel at the incredible architecture. Keep an eye out for the iconic mercantile buildings known as the ‘Three Graces’: Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building, and Port of Liverpool Building. You’ll quickly discover why this vibrant city was chosen for Eurovision and remains a cultural hub drawing tourists from across the globe.
Things to do in Liverpool:
-As mentioned, the waterways are key to Liverpool and its history, so head to the Maritime Museum to learn more about how they shaped the city, and follow this with a stroll around the stunning Royal Albert Dock.
-Nowadays, September is basically an extension of the summer and promises gorgeous weather. But just in case this doesn’t happen, you can spend a rainy afternoon at the Museum of Liverpool or the World Museum.
-Alright, so we said there is more to Liverpool than the Beatles, but they are quite important as well. Be sure to learn all about this talented band at The Beatles Story Museum, and then visit the nearby Beatles Statue. You can also head to the Cavern Club for a drink and show, which is a legendary Beatles venue that has since been renovated.
8. The Neuk of Fife, Scotland
The Neuk of Fife, also referred to simply as ‘The Neuk,’ is a charming region located in the southeastern corner of Fife, Scotland. Where did this strange name come from? Well, Neuk is a Scottish word for nook or corner, which describes the geographical layout of this region perfectly. The area's quaint harbours, historic sites, and scenic coastal paths make it a popular destination for those seeking to experience the authentic charm of Scotland's east coast. Despite its tranquil nature, it is filled with some of the best things to do in September in the UK.
Things to do in the Neuk of Fife:
-There’s a lot of walking on this list, mainly because holidays provide such a wonderful opportunity to stretch your body after days behind a desk. This time, it’s walking the Fife Coastal Path, which offers breathtaking walks along the shoreline and connects several charming villages, including Anstruther, Pittenweem, and Crail. This coastal path provides panoramic views of the North Sea, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
-Visit the Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther. Located in the harbour town of Anstruther, the Scottish Fisheries Museum shares the rich maritime history of the area, with exhibits on the fishing industry, traditional boats, and local culture.
-If we had to pick just one village to visit on the Neuk of Fife, it would be St. Monans. A quaint fishing village known for its old harbours and picturesque houses, it was named after the legendary Saint Monan. Visit the historic St. Monans Windmill, which once played a crucial role in the local salt-panning industry, and the 14th-century church perched on the rocks of the western side.
9. Yorkshire Dales, England
Somehow everyone is always in such a rush to visit the Lake District that they forget about this green gem. The Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to thousands of miles of moors, hills, rivers, forests, valleys, and villages. You won’t believe how many shades of green occur in nature until you visit this stunning region. This is also the ideal September getaway for anyone in the north of England or Scotland, as you can easily fit it into a long weekend away.
Things to do in the Yorkshire Dales:
-There are a lot of disputes regarding the prettiest village in the Dales, with many claiming it is Kettlewell, Malham or Reeth. But we’ve only got eyes for Grassington, a bustling market town filled with independent shops, cafes and pubs. It is known for its charming stone buildings and the annual Grassington Festival, which features music, arts and cultural events.
-Lace up your walking boots and pack plenty of water and snacks, as no trip to the Yorkshire Dales is complete without a hike. For a shorter route under two miles, consider the Devil’s Bridge or Malham’s Cove routes, both of which are accessible. For a longer hike, head up Gunnerside Gill for an 8-mile route through the remains of the lead mines, which will also provide you with a glimpse into the industrial history of the Dales.
-Spend a day in York. This quintessentially British city is considered to be one of the UK’s most walkable cities. There’s plenty to see while here, so consider taking a walking tour. We also recommend visiting York’s Castle Museum or climbing the famed Clifford’s Tower.
10. Aberdeen, Scotland
Welcome to the final stop on our list, also known as the ‘Granite City,’ thanks to its stunning granite architecture that glimmers in the sunlight. Aberdeen is a major hub for the North Sea oil industry and therefore blends a rich maritime heritage with modern energy and innovation. In this vibrant city, you can find a historic university, a beautiful coastline, and a thriving cultural scene. As the third largest city in Scotland, it offers the perfect blend of history, industry, and natural beauty.
Things to do in Aberdeen:
-We love to recommend walking tours in a new city, as there is no better way to explore a place than with the guidance of a passionate local. Aberdeen offers numerous historical walking tours and self-guided audio tours to help you discover the best-kept secrets of this sprawling city.
-Head to Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, located in the historic Old Aberdeen region of the city. This beach area marks where the River Don meets the sea and is a great place to see seals and a range of interesting birds.
-For an indoor activity, visit the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Located in the heart of the city, this museum offers fascinating insights into Aberdeen's long-standing relationship with the sea, including exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and the North Sea oil industry. The museum itself provides stunning views over the busy harbour and can be followed by some delicious seafood. Or, for something outdoors to enjoy the September sunshine, take a stroll through one of Aberdeen’s most beautiful green spaces: Duthie Park. The David Welch Winter Gardens, located within the park, is one of Europe’s largest indoor gardens, featuring exotic plants, tropical flowers, and serene ponds.
Have you decided where to go in September in the UK? Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach or hike through vibrant autumn landscapes, there are plenty of things to do in the UK this month. These destinations are wonderful year-round, but they truly come alive with the unique beauty and tranquillity that September brings. They’re some of our favourite places to visit in the UK in autumn. If you’re planning a road trip instead, check out the most scenic drives to see autumn leaves in Europe.
