PLANNING an autumnal staycation and need some inspiration? Then look no further than the Cotswolds and Edinburgh.
While both destinations are loved year-round, as the seasons change from summer to autumn, they truly come alive.
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According to Pinterest‘s latest report, “users are packing their bags for charming escapes”, with a dramatic rise in searches for European countryside getaways.
And the report suggests that Edinburgh in Scotland and the Cotswolds, England are stand out spots for exactly this.
‘Edinburgh Scotland‘ and ‘Edinburgh autumn’ have risen in search, by 85 per cent and 103 per cent respectively.
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Then ‘English countryside cottage’ and ‘Cotswolds outfit’ have grown in search as well, by 814 per cent and 597 per cent respectively.
So, maybe for your next trip you could don a tweed jacket in Scotland or snuggle into a cosy knitted jumper in the Cotswolds.
Here’s some of the top highlights from both destinations.
Edinburgh, Scotland
When you search ‘Edinburgh autumn’ on Pinterest, you’ll be greeted by a sea of moody greys, beiges and warm oranges, with pictures of cosy corners in bookstores and cafes and cobbled alleyways littered with leaves.
Edinburgh is often associated with autumn thanks to its windy weather and the colourful transformation of its tree-lined streets.
It creates a dramatic backdrop for the historic architecture found in the Scottish capital, and of course, its towering castle.
There are many amazing historical spots to visit in the city, including Dean Village and the Old Town.
Head along the Royal Mile to find warm and inviting pubs, including The World’s End Tavern, which sits at the edge of the Old Town’s walls and was known as the spot where visitors would ‘end’ their travels.
Along the same stretch you will find a number of shops as well, many of which sell wool and cashmere clothing handmade locally.
If you are looking for more independent businesses to explore, make sure to head down Victoria Street.
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The long curving road is home to many unique shops, including a number of Harry Potter-related destinations (J.K. Rowling lived in the city and wrote in local cafes).
Edinburgh is also home to the best spot for an autumnal walk via Arthur’s Seat.
While the climb up the dormant volcano isn’t for the fainthearted, once at the top you get to see breathtaking views of both the city below and the sea.
But perhaps do take a tweed jacket with you, as it gets rather windy at the top.
As for places to stay, the city isn’t short of options – including many top-rated hostels if you are on a tight budget.
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Cotswolds, England
Dropping down into south-central and south-west England, you’ll reach another idyllic autumnal destination – the Cotswolds.
The region is well-known for its charming villages with honey-coloured stone, creating the ideal backdrop to the trees as they change their colours.
To truly see the seasonal transformation, head to Westonbirt Arboretum or Batsford Arboretum, which both become a sea of glowing oranges and warm browns in the autumn.
Westonbirt Arboretum is also home to one of the largest collections of maple and acer trees in the world.
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Top spots among tourists include Bibury Village, which famous poet and designer William Morris dubbed as the prettiest in England.
Visitors can explore the iconic Arlington Row – a set of 17th-century National Trust-owned weavers’ cottages – which even appears on the inside cover of UK passports.
The River Coln runs alongside the cottages, adding to the overall charm.
Wherever you go in the region, you will find ‘English countryside cottages’, including historic pubs and hotels.
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For example, The Bell in Charlbury is housed in a 17th-century building that offers local brews as well as bedrooms upstairs with four-poster beds and enticing fireplaces.
Or you could opt for a holiday cottage, many of which are dog friendly.
Here is a more in-depth look at what you could get up to in the Scottish capital.
And in the Cotswolds, there is a village with its own sandy beach and lagoon – miles from the English seaside.
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