London Fall Foliage Guide: Where to Find the Best Autumn Colours

Fall in London doesn’t last long, but the colour burst can be amazing if you know the right spots. Want to avoid crowds and find the brightest leaves? Here’s a quick map of parks, gardens and streets that turn gold, orange and red every October.

Top Parks for Autumn Colours

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is a must‑see. The arboretum has oaks, beeches and maples that all change at slightly different times, so you get a layered look over a few weeks. Grab a coffee at the café, walk the Treetop Walk and snap the canopy from the elevated platform.

Greenwich Park offers a hilltop view over the Thames and a mix of mature plane trees and chestnut rows. The view from the Royal Observatory is especially striking when the leaves are at their peak. Bring a light jacket – it can get breezy up there.

Hampstead Heath is another favourite. The heaths are less formal than a garden, so you’ll see wild‑looking birch and oak mixes. The Parliament Hill viewpoint gives a city backdrop that looks great in photos, especially with a slight fog rolling in.

If you prefer something smaller, check out the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. It’s a Japanese‑style oasis with maples that turn fiery red. The pond and stone lanterns add a calm vibe that contrasts nicely with the colour.

Photography Tips & Timing

Peak colour usually hits the last week of September and the first week of October, but it can shift depending on the weather. Keep an eye on the forecast – a sunny day after a few dry weeks brings the brightest hues.

Early morning light gives a warm glow and fewer people. Use the “golden hour” (about an hour after sunrise) for soft shadows. If you’re shooting on a phone, tap the screen to focus on a leaf and slide to adjust exposure.

Try low angles. Get close to the ground and capture the leaf pattern against a dark path. A tripod or stable surface helps if you want longer exposures for silky water effects in the ponds.

Don’t forget the hidden streets. The tree‑lined route down The Mall, especially near St James’s Park, offers a straight line of tall elms and an iconic London backdrop. Walk the route from Horse Guards to Trafalgar Square for a quick photo burst.

Finally, pack a small snack and a water bottle. Walking a few parks can add up, and a short break lets you soak the scenery without rushing.

With these spots and tips, you’ll catch London’s fall foliage at its best. Grab your camera, put on comfy shoes, and enjoy the autumn colours while they last.