Ready for Autumn in the UK? What to Pack + What Not to Miss

After a busy summer, I’m ready for a little more routine and some cozy time. My daughter and I recently came back from a week in central London while she took a pretty intense summer course. We stayed at Locke at Broken Wharf, right on the river near St. Paul’s. Seriously, I was looking out our window at the Millennium Bridge every day. It’s a mix of hotel and apartment, with a great café downstairs and just enough space for two.

The location was a standout. I don't always recommend City of London hotels for visitors because it's more financial district than tourist central. However, we were just a short walk from the Tate Modern and Shakespeare's Globe and could hop on the Tube at Blackfriars station. The rooms aren’t large enough for a full family, but it’s a great option for couples or solo travelers who want to stay central but have some homey touches like an in-room kitchenette.

If you’re heading to London this fall, it’s worth a look. And if you're wondering what to pack, start here with my UK packing list for fall or new autumn in London outfit guide.

Life Abroad: What Are GCSEs?

My daughter just started Year 11, which means one thing in the UK school system: GCSEs are around the corner. These are national exams that students take at the end of Year 11, usually around age 16. I often describe them to friends in the US as a much more detailed version of the SAT. Instead of one big test, there are multiple exams across different subjects over the span of several weeks. It's honestly pretty intense.

For families thinking about a move abroad, especially with middle school-aged kids, this is a good system to understand early. It’s very different from what many of us grew up with in the US, and it can shape what schooling options make sense for your kids.

If you’re just starting to explore education in the UK, my guide to choosing a UK school may help.

What’s On This Autumn

If you're visiting this autumn, these events are worth checking out:

1. Bonfire Night (November 5th)​
   Celebrated across the UK, but London's Alexandra Palace display is one of the best. Expect fireworks, food stalls, and a lively crowd.
2. London Film Festival (Oct 8–19, 2025)​
   A major cultural event with screenings across the city. It's open to everyone, not just those in the entertainment industry.
3. Halloween at the Tower of London​
   This historic site leans into the spooky season with after-hours tours and themed exhibits during the last week of October.
4. Edinburgh’s Samhuinn Fire Festival (Oct 31, 2025)​
   This Celtic celebration marks the end of harvest season with fire, drumming, and street theatre on Calton Hill. A unique experience if you’ll be in Scotland for Halloween.
5. Autumn Colour Walks in the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh​
   From mid-October through early November, the gardens become a kaleidoscope of color. An easy way to enjoy fall foliage without leaving the city.

For more on how the UK celebrates spooky season, here’s my take on Halloween in the UK.

Travel Find: A Quiet Corner in Wales

This summer we took a family trip to Wales, and it ended up being exactly what we needed—quiet, scenic, and refreshingly simple. It’s easy to overlook when planning a UK itinerary, but if you’re craving slower days and big views, Wales is worth your time.

We stayed in a farm cottage surrounded by green hills and incredible views. It was the kind of trip where we barely touched our phones and came back actually rested. I’ll be sharing more soon, but if you’re thinking of planning something slower-paced this autumn or winter, keep Wales in mind.

This is where we stayed: The Cwtch​

See you soon!

Victoria