Today marks the first day of autumn, and now we’re officially in a new season, it’s time to look back on what’s been a brilliant summer filled with long days of glorious sunshine, and all the great memories made from the adventures you had travelling solo, as a couple or with the whole family.
For many people, the start of autumn means it’s time for your vehicle to hibernate until next spring before getting back on the road again. But why wait? Now is the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of nature as the leaves change colour and begin to fall.
The UK has plenty of places to explore that will satisfy your wanderlust even as the evenings begin to draw in, whether you’re making the most of crisp, cool, yet sunny days or embracing the good old British rain. After all, there are still so many memories to make and reasons that your journey doesn’t have to stop just because summer does – so consider this your signal to plan your next trip!
We’re proud to be a Yorkshire-based business and lucky to have some landscapes that look truly spectacular in autumn right on our doorstep. So, to inspire you to experience it for yourself, we’ve put together a journey plan which takes you through one of our favourite corners of Yorkshire: the North York Moors.
First stop: Pickering
A historic market town surrounded by open countryside, Pickering is a great place to begin your trip. Wander streets speckled with listed buildings, enjoy a traditional pub lunch or explore Pickering Castle perhaps. The town is also home to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which winds its way through the National Park towards Whitby.
There are accommodation options throughout the National Park, including sites catering to different styles of touring and activities. The North York Moors is even an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it an excellent place for stargazing on a clear autumn evening as a perfect end to a day on the road.
Into the moors
The landscape takes on a whole new character as summer fades. Heather-covered moorland gives way to spectacular gold and russet tones, while misty mornings and low autumn sunshine can make the scenery feel wonderfully atmospheric. September and October can be particularly good months for walking and cycling.
One place worth adding to your route is the Hole of Horcum, a dramatic natural amphitheatre just north of Pickering. At around 400 feet deep and more than half a mile wide, it’s one of the most striking features of the National Park and offers the perfect excuse to stretch your legs. For the wild at heart, make your way towards the woodland trails of Dalby Forest.
Take the scenic route to Whitby
Whitby is a fitting end to an autumn road trip, particularly around Halloween, since the town is best known for its association with Bram Stoker’s classic novel, Dracula. This popular seaside town has an unmistakable backdrop, with its harbour, cobbled streets and the majestic ruins of Whitby Abbey overlooking everything. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the famous 199 steps to see its sublime architecture up close.
