There’s something about turning the calendar to September that feels like a fresh start. Perhaps it’s all those years of new school terms – new uniform if you’re lucky enough to have grown during that long summer holiday, a new pencil case and all the exciting things that go inside…, or maybe it’s the shift in the air – cooler mornings, softer light, and that unmistakable sense that autumn is tiptoeing in.

I always think of September as a gentle bridge between the last of summer’s sunshine and the richness of autumn. I love the summer with its warm sunshine, beach trips and bright pretty flowers, but somehow once September hits it’s that signal that there’s no going back now. The evenings draw in, the jumpers come out, and suddenly I find myself craving mugs of tea, cosy socks, and scenic country walks where the leaves crunch underfoot.

Autumn Days

For me, autumn is the season of slowing down and leaning into comfort. It’s about lighting a candle on a grey afternoon, cooking wholesome meals that fill the kitchen with warmth and wrapping up for walks with my dogs. The hedgerows are alive with berries, conkers begin to appear, and every sunset seems to glow just a little bit more golden. Each year autumn grows on me that little bit more and now I’m really enjoying having an appreciation for this beautiful season. In nature, particularly, it’s spectacular.

Some places to explore near Surrey this autumn

I’m quite lucky living somewhere that I can easily access a trip out in Surrey, Sussex or Kent. Here are a few favourites on my list for the coming weeks:

Hever Castle (Kent) – a spot seeped in history, with well stocked gardens and a stunning castle that looks magical in autumn.

Sheffield Park and Gardens (Sussex) – if you love reflections, the lakes here mirror the autumn colours beautifully.

Knole Park (Kent) – ancient deer parkland where you can walk for miles among autumnal trees and spot the resident deer.

Chartwell (Kent) – a mix of woodland and gardens to explore with plenty of trees showing off their autumn hues. In the kitchen garden you’ll sometimes find autumnal displays of pumpkins.

Wakehurst Place (Sussex) – lovely walks among trees plus some formal gardens, although dogs are not permitted in the gardens.

Autumn blooms

Just because the summer flowers are fading doesn’t mean the garden has to look boring. September brings us dahlias in every shade, crimson acers and roses still hanging on – if you’ve made time for pruning throughout the season. It’s nice to bring some indoors, a pretty jug with roses or dahlias on the kitchen table instantly brightens even the gloomiest day. I need to pop to a nursery or garden centre and pick up some pansies or similar to fill my front door pots.

Cosy wardrobes

Who else is excited for the joy of autumn clothes? (Plus a chance to cover up a bit!!) Out come the chunky knits, soft scarves, and boots that have been tucked away since spring. There’s something really reassuring about that first wear of a favourite jumper – it almost feels like your clothes are giving you a comforting hug. I love layering tunic tops with leggings and cardigans or cosy fleece jackets, ready for days that start chilly but warm up by afternoon.

So, here’s to September – a month of gentle change, cosy comforts, and countryside walks that remind us just how beautiful the turning of the seasons can be. I can’t wait to see what this autumn brings.