Benefits of Autumn Travel

The Benefits of Autumn Camping: Why an Autumn Break is the Perfect Escape

As the long summer days fade and the Northumberland landscape transforms into a blaze of orange, russets, red, and gold, there’s no better time to embrace the beauty of the great outdoors than autumn. From crisp countryside walks to cosy evenings under the stars, autumn camping offers a magical mix of tranquillity, natural beauty, and seasonal charm. Whether you’re planning an autumn break in the UK countryside or a cosy weekend of autumn camping, this time of year is full of unforgettable experiences waiting to be discovered. Here’s why autumn might just be the best season of all for your next adventure.

An autumn escape to Herding Hill Farm near Hadrian’s Wall offers something truly special. Many campsites close between October and Easter but Herding Hill Farm is a Northumberland campsite open all year.

Why Choose an Autumn Break in Northumberland?

Autumn is often an overlooked season for travel, but it’s actually one of the most rewarding times to explore Northumberland. Here’s why:

Places are less crowded - after the kids go back to school in September, family-friendly destinations and the roads are less crowded. You can expect shorter waits, more availability in restaurants and accommodation and fewer crowds especially on the most popular walks like Steel Rigg to Sycamore Gap

Travel is cheaper - Off-peak travel always brings savings. Lower demand for services and accommodation can mean lower prices and a reduction in thbe minimum stay requirements – a huge benefit of getting away in Autumn.

The weather is mild - As the UK continues to experience extreme temperatures in Summer, milder Autumn weather is perfect for exploring particularly if you want to enjoy Autumnal Northumberland walks. The weather is still dry, with good daylight hours. Crisp mornings and cooler nights make snuggling by a firepit or relaxing in your hot tub accommodation Northumberland under the stars even more magical.

Stunning scenery everywhere you go - One of the biggest reasons to plan an autumn break is the spectacular scenery. Watching the seasons change is one of the joys of nature. Forests, woodlands and national parks burst into vibrant shades of red, amber and gold. Picture the rolling early morning mist, changing colours of leaves and conkers on the fall. Whether you’re a budding photographer or you just love taking a walk to enjoy the scenery, Autumn landscapes are amazing. With locations such as Hadrian’s Wall, Allen Banks, the Northumberland coast and Kielder Forest on our doorstep – you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to explore. The Northumberland 250 route is particularly beautiful in autumn, with winding country roads surrounded by fiery foliage
Autumn Wildlife - Autumn is rutting season for red deer, and Northumberland National Park is alive with birdlife preparing for winter.

Cosy pubs - End the day with a hearty meal by the fire in one of the many welcoming country inns nearby.

Autumn Stargazing - Northumberland is one of the best places for stargazing in the UK. Autumn stargazing can be enjoyed from your outdoor hot tub or around a fire pit drinking hot chocolate. Think fairy lights, blankets, toasted marshmallows and clear starry skies. It’s the perfect season for slowing down and reconnecting with nature (and each other). Autumn is the best season for stargazing. It gets dark earlier, so you don’t have to stay up too late and it’s warm enough to still be outdoors. There are also some great Autumnal constellations and the view of Mars and the Milky Way are spectacular on a clear night. We offer stargazing kits for hire

Seasonal Autumn Events - Travelling in autumn isn’t just about the scenery — it’s also a time when towns and villages come alive with autumn events and seasonal celebrations. From harvest festivals and bonfire nights to Halloween trails and Christmas markets starting in late November, there’s always something exciting happening. You’ll find:

Pumpkin picking and farm festivals – try pumpkin picking in Northumberland at Brocksbrushes or Walby Farm Park pumpkin picking
Halloween experiences – Spooky castle tours, haunted trails and themed nights. Spooky woodland walks are available at Belsay Hall or why not make up your own treasure hunt? Chillingham Castle is often referred to as Britain’s most haunted castle
Bonfire and fireworks displays – A seasonal highlight for many visitors. Herding Hill Farm's Bonfire Weekend always sells out
Food and drink festivals – Celebrate the best of local produce with artisan markets and tasting events

Building one of these autumn events into your trip is a great way to make your getaway even more memorable. You can make your own Autumn events and crafts when staying with us. Crisp fallen leaves, pine cones and conkers make great tools for outdoor crafts especially if you can mix the magnificent Autumn colours. And who can resist jumping in or tossing a pile of dry freshly fallen Autumnal leaves – adults and children alike! Apples are in abundance during Autumn so why not collect some and do some baking?

Top Tips for Autumn Camping

Pack layers – Northumberland weather can be changeable, so bring warm clothes and waterproofs
Book early – Autumn is becoming increasingly popular with savvy travellers, so secure your lodge or glamping pod in advance
Make it cosy – Bring extra blankets, bed socks favourite board games (we have a selection to borrow in our Indoor Campers Kitchen), and a good book for those snug evenings indoors (we have a Book Exchange if you need some additional choice)
Use a fire - our Castle Pods come with a fire pit and wood burning stove and we offer fire pits for hire on our other tent and touring pitches and Wigwam cabins

Make the Most of Autumn Camping: Book your Autumn break

Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic autumn break, a family planning half-term adventures, or a group of friends wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, there’s something truly special about travelling at this time of year. With stunning scenery, cosy evenings, seasonal celebrations and peaceful surroundings, autumn camping and short breaks offer the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. So, pack your walking boots, your warmest jumper and a sense of adventure — and discover why autumn might just be the best time of year to explore the UK. From grass tent pitches that are open until November, to touring pitches open all year to hot tub accommodation Northumberland there is something for everyone at Herding Hill Farm. Whatever accommodation option you choose, we guarantee you’ll have an Autumn break to remember. Escape the ordinary this autumn — book your stay at Herding Hill Farm today and experience Northumberland at its most enchanting.