Tweet
As the few summer days we had start to feel like a distant memory we turn our attention to autumn where the weather is at its most unpredictable.
While us Brits love to moan about the weather, autumn is a beautiful season. The leaves begin to fall, the nights become longer and it comes with a sort of romanticism that we sometimes overlook.
A study conducted by Stanford University found that walking in nature has a positive effect on the brain. So, with this in mind, we at Love Home Swap have put together a list of the best parks to visit for those travelling in the UK this autumn.
Victoria Park, East London
Victoria Park may be a little rougher around the edges than other London parks but it's perfect when you're looking to escape from the busy East London streets. In the summer it plays host to some of pop and rock's biggest names but as the leaves fall and the loud noises disappear, the park's ponds and canals are left to do the talking. Head down to this park if you're after serenity.
Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
Windswept, hilly and volcanic - to those who have never visited Holyrood Park it might sound like something out of an apocalypse movie and with it's steep pathways and sheer cliff faces it's not for the faint hearted. However, the real draw to this park is the history, with evidence of human settlements going back 10,000 years and 15th century chapel this makes it the perfect place for an autumn trek.
Bute Park, Cardiff
Known as the green heart of the city, Bute Park homes over 3000 species of tree, including some of the most significant and rare in the UK. If you like spend your autumn afternoons collecting or playing in the fallen leaves, the Bute Park is the place for you.
Hyde Park, London
Located in the heart of the UK's biggest city Hyde Park offers the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the London streets. It is hard to believe that such a peaceful place is only a moments walk from the infamously busy Oxford Street. After a stressful shopping trip there is little more calming than grabbing a pumpkin spice latte and heading down for a slow stroll through the park.
Queen's Square, Bristol
Named after Queen Anne, Queen's Square was once a very fashionable place to live and while the surrounding buildings are now mainly offices they still give a very regal vibe. This Green Flag awarded park is certainly on the finer end of those on this list. If you're not a fan of donning your wellies and squelching in the mud then this is your kind of park.
Richmond Park, London
As the days become shorter and winter draws closer it can leave you feeling down, sluggish and longing for summer. Why not blow out the cobwebs and take a trip down to Richmond Park, where the abundance of wildlife is sure to revitalise you and make you appreciate the real beauty of autumn.
Abington Park, Northampton
With its own museum Abington Park is the perfect place to visit when the weather is its usual unpredictable self. If the sun is out then you can explore the medieval ruins or walk along one of the enchanting lakes but if the weather takes a turn for the worse you can take shelter in the museum and learn about the history of shoes.
Crystal Palace, South London
Not only is Crystal Palace Park one of the largest in South London, it is also one of the most important in the UK. The park was created to host The Crystal Palace which was designed for the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park. While the Crystal Palace itself was dismantled during the second world war, there is still lots to see and do. Including one of London's biggest firework displays for Guy Fawkes night, that you must see.
Coed Y Brenin, Snowdonia
Famous for mountain biking, Coed Y Brenin is no stranger to a bit of adventure but for those that prefer something more chilled there are plenty of other activities too, including a wheelchair friendly walk and an animal puzzle trail. For those taking a trip to Wales in autumn Coed Y Brenin is fun for the whole family.
Platt Fields, Manchester
From skate parks to eco-gardens Platt Fields is the ultimate place to keep the whole family happy. With dedicated show fields, it would be worth checking to see if anything is happening before your visit.
Hampstead Heath, London
You don't need to visit The Shard to see breath-taking views of the city, Hampstead Heath is just as good and comes without the price tag. In summer it makes the perfect place for picnics but during autumn it's all about the long walk at dusk. As the night rolls in the city illuminates - there aren't many parks that ignite so much emotion.
