3 European Destinations That Are Even Better in Autumn

Cruise ship sailing out of port, framed by golden yellow autumn leaves.

Autumn is one of my favourite times to travel, and I've already made the case for exploring the UK when the leaves start turning several times. Having said that, I'm very aware of how lucky we are to live in such a well-connected part of the world, so it would be rude not to take advantage of that by suggesting a few 

If you're in search of a European city break, autumn is one of the best times to travel. The summer crowds have started to disappear, the weather is usually still perfect for exploring. There's also just something about wandering around a pretty place on a chilly day with a hot drink in your hand that makes a trip feel extra special.


I've been fortunate enough to have visited a good chunk of Europe, and these three cities are all places I'd happily go back to tomorrow for another autumnal adventure!

5 Autumn Micro Adventures You Need to Try

Becky from The Owlet walking through a pumpkin patch on a sunny autumn day

2026 is the year of the "micro adventure". With less spare cash and free time, and more stress than ever, we're all looking for small moments of joy wherever we can get them. Micro adventures are exactly that - small moments to get away from everything and do something that you enjoy, without having the time or budget for a multi-day trip. 


Micro-adventures may be the talk of summer, but I feel like autumn is the time where we all need encouragement to get outside.  Autumn is hands-down one of my favourite times of year. The leaves are golden, the air is crisp, yet everyone heads inside in fear of being caught out by the Great British Weather, and that feels like a crime.

3 of the Best Places to Spend Autumn in the UK

Tyntesfield surrounded by autumn trees at sunset in North Somerset

Autumn is one of my favourite times to travel around the UK.

Yes, people may mock the Great British weather's famous indecision, but leaving the house with a raincoat AND suncream is all part of the adventure, isn't it? It all contributes to the magic of the ever-changing landscapes that this beautiful country has to offer, and as we've seen from the last few months, the rain keeps the UK's beautiful shades of green in check!

The crowds have mostly dissipated, spurred on by the threat of changeable weather, the leaves have turned every shade of red, orange and gold and no one will judge you for spending the afternoon in a cosy pub or cafe with a slice of cake and a coffee, because that's just what you do in the 'ber months.

The UK really comes into its own in autumn - maybe this is controversial but I think there are lots of destinations around the UK that look even better through the autumn lens. Whether you're in search of tree-lined streets and long walks over crunchy leaves, a cosy city break or somewhere to watch the waves crash against the shoreline, these three places are my personal recommendations and they're sure to deliver!

100 Things To Do in Bristol Without a Car

Hot air balloons taking to the sky over Bristol during the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
Updated September 2026

Hey Owlets,

If you're looking for a city that has it all, Bristol is THE place to visit. Over the years Bristol has become known as a foodie hotspot and a hub of arts and culture, but there's even more to it than that! This vibrant city on the water is home to a whole host of museums, adventure experiences, various attractions and so many stunning walks that I still haven't ticked them all off, having lived here for 30 years!

There are so many things to see and do in and around Bristol, but this wonderful city has one huge issue - the public transport. Bristol's spotty public transport network is so well known that it was recently discussed in parliament! 

Exploring Bristol without a car is definitely more challenging, but it's not impossible and I will say that it's gotten much easier over the past decade. There are several places that you do need a car to get to, but there are also literally hundreds of things to see and do that are accessible via public transport. In case you don't believe me, I'm going to share 100 things to see and do in Bristol without a car. I've split it into different categories so you can search by what interests you too. 

Also, if you're hoping to visit for a weekend city break I've shared a guide to visiting Bristol on a budget which goes into more detail about where to stay, what to eat and what to do on a budget.

How to Spend a Weekend in Bristol, UK on a Budget

Bristol harbourside in the city centre on a sunny day. The ideal place to visit when you're in Bristol

Updated September 2026

Hey Owlets,

Just like everything else, travelling is getting more expensive. The same budget that used to stretch to a week long trip, a few long weekends or a last minute cruise is now stretched during just one trip - especially if you’re exploring a big city like Bristol. I love my hometown but it has a reputation for being pricey, and while that’s not miles away from the truth a trip to Bristol doesn’t have to cost the Earth. There are plenty of ways that you can visit Bristol on a budget and still make the most out of your trip to the city.

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3 Cosy Adventures to Take in the UK this Autumn

Hey Owlets, The leaves have begun to turn, the sun now sets before 8pm and the rain has returned (not that it ever really left - what happen...