Autumn Staycations in England: Cosy Inns and Scenic Walks
Uncategorized | Posted 2025.09.18
Autumn Staycations in England: Cosy Inns and Scenic Walks
Autumn is a great time to explore England. The weather is cooler, paths are quieter, and the countryside is full of colour. If you’re looking for a short break, staying in a pub with rooms is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the season. You get a base in a beautiful location, hearty food and drink on site, and direct access to walking routes.
Here are some excellent options for autumn staycations, all centred around country inns with rooms in top walking destinations.
The Maynard, Grindleford – Peak District
The Peak District is at its best in autumn, with golden valleys and misty mornings across the moors. The Maynard in Grindleford makes a great base, sitting right on the edge of the Hope Valley. From the doorstep you can walk to Padley Gorge, climb up to Higger Tor, or take the train one stop to Edale for the start of the Pennine Way. Back at the inn, expect stylish rooms, seasonal menus, and an excellent choice of local ales.
The Angel Inn, Bowness-on-Windermere – Lake District
If you’re drawn to lakeside views and autumn walks through woodlands, The Angel Inn in Bowness is a great pick. Located in one of the Lake District’s most popular towns, the pub has comfortable rooms and easy acceszzs to Windermere Lake Cruises, as well as walking trails like Orrest Head for panoramic views of the fells. After a day out, the beer garden has some of the best views in town.
The Yan at Broadrayne, Grasmere – Lake District
For something a little more tucked away, The Yan at Broadrayne is a stylish pub-with-rooms set on a family-run farm just outside Grasmere. It’s ideal for walkers, with direct access to classic routes such as Helm Crag and Easedale Tarn, and the famous Coast to Coast Path running past the door. The inn offers modern, comfortable rooms and hearty, locally sourced food — perfect after a long day on the fells.
Red Lion, Burnsall – Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales are a walker’s paradise, and the riverside village of Burnsall is especially scenic in autumn. The Red Lion offers traditional charm, with rooms overlooking the River Wharfe. Popular routes from the village include riverside paths to Grassington or a loop up into the limestone hills. Inside, you’ll find open fires, cask ales, and a menu full of hearty classics — perfect after a day’s walking.
The Swan, Bibury – Cotswolds
Bibury is often described as one of England’s prettiest villages, and it’s especially charming in autumn. The Swan Hotel offers characterful rooms right in the heart of the village, making it easy to explore the famous Arlington Row or take longer walks along the River Coln. The inn combines country comfort with elegant dining, making it a good choice if you want a mix of walking and relaxing.
Timbrells Yard, Bradford-on-Avon – Wiltshire
For an autumn staycation with a mix of riverside walks and historic charm, Timbrells Yard in Bradford-on-Avon is a strong choice. The pub has stylish, design-led rooms and sits right by the River Avon. From here you can enjoy local walks or take the short train ride into Bath for city exploring. It’s ideal if you want the countryside but with easy links to attractions.
The Gin Trap Inn, Ringstead – Norfolk Coast
Autumn is also a good time to explore the Norfolk coast, when beaches and paths are less busy. The Gin Trap Inn in Ringstead is just a short distance from Hunstanton and the coastal path. Rooms are modern and comfortable, while the pub is known for excellent food and, of course, a wide selection of gins. Walkers can enjoy sections of the Norfolk Coast Path, with highlights including Holme Dunes and Brancaster Beach.
Turtley Corn Mill, Avonwick – Devon
For a peaceful autumn retreat in the South West, Turtley Corn Mill in Avonwick is a hidden gem. Set in six acres of grounds with a lake and riverside walks, it’s the perfect base for exploring Devon’s rolling countryside. You can follow the River Avon through woodland trails or head a little further to Dartmoor National Park for wilder landscapes. Back at the inn, the focus is on good food, comfortable rooms, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Ley Arms, Kenn – Devon
Just a short distance from Exeter, The Ley Arms in Kenn combines historic character with a great location for exploring Devon’s countryside and coast. From the pub you can head out on local circular walks through rolling farmland, or drive a little further to enjoy the Exe Estuary Trail — perfect in autumn for spotting migrating birds. The pub offers comfortable rooms, traditional menus, and plenty of charm, making it a convenient stop for a Devon break.
For more inspiration on country inns with beautiful walking routes right on the doorstep, visit our Walking Holidays Collections page, featuring our handpicked pubs and ideas for walking routes across the country.
Written by Melanie Phipps