London is pretty all year round, but its arguably at its most photogenic in Autumn. There's a chill in the air, the leaves start to turn, and the city becomes awash with gorgeous yellow and red hues. It's a brilliant time to visit London not only as a tourist, but particularly if you're keen on capturing the city in all it's Autumn finery.
The best time to see Autumn colours in London is usually mid October to early November, however this varies year on year. Usually the ivy turns first, around mid October, with the leaves on trees turning around the end of the month.
There are so many picturesque spots to see Autumn colours in London, but I've compiled some of my very favourites. I've included both can't-miss big hitters, and a few hidden gems beside. I hope this guide to Autumn Instagram locations in London inspires your future travel and photography adventures!
Little Venice
Little Venice in North West London is easily one of the prettiest Autumn spots in London, when the trees that line the canals that give the area it's name turn orange. It's a lovely neighbourhood to spend a morning in: grab coffee from a local cafe and take yourself on a walk along the waterways. However if you don't have time to explore, this particular spot is around five minutes walk from Warwick Avenue station, by Warwick Bridge.
Portland Road
There's really no such thing as a hidden gem in London any more, particular when it comes to Instagram, but this lovely ivy covered door in Holland Park is arguably about as close as it gets. Head here around mid-October to see the colours at their best, although this can vary depending on the weather each year. You'll find this spot about ten minutes walk up Portland Road from Holland Park, tucked away in a backstreet.
Stanley Crescent
Just round the corner in Notting Hill, we have the complete opposite of a hidden gem. I usually try to avoid sharing locations that are people's houses, however realistically, everyone and their dog knows about this spot (I kid you not, last time I shot here in Spring I met a very cute Instagram puppy!). In Spring these trees are famous for their cherry blossom display, however in Autumn it's just as pretty with a spectacular leaf display. Get here early to avoid crowds, and please do be respectful of the owner's property. You'll find this spot when Kensington Park Gardens meets Stanley Crescent.
Read More: Cherry Blossom Instagram Locations in London
Regent's Park
If you're going to do one Autumn Instagram location in London, make it Regent's Park. Arguably one of the prettiest green spaces in London, this lovely park is famous for it's tree lined walkway that turns bright yellow come Autumn. This exact spot is called the Broad Walk to the East of the park, and the nearest station is Regent's Park, around 5 minutes walk away.
Make sure to get here early to avoid the crowds. Also keep in mind that the leaves don't hang around for long. I once visited one day and they were perfect, came back the next to find that they'd largely all dropped! Keep an eye on the Regent's Park location tag to see how they're coming along. If it's a nice day and you've got the time, I'd recommend heading through the park and along the canal to Little Venice!
Dalloway Terrace
Instagram stalwart Dalloway Terrace is a restaurant in Bloomsbury known for its seasonal floral displays. It usually does a gorgeous Autumn theme, complete with lush faux foliage transporting you into a cosy Autumnal haven. At time of writing it doesn't look like they've switched over yet, but keep an eye on their Instagram for updates. Or just visit anyway for their delicious breakfasts!
Horse Guard's Parade
One of the most impressive ivy displays in the city can be found in iconic Horse Guard's Parade, next to Admiralty House and St James's Park. An entire wall is completely ivy covered, making it a great backdrop for Instagram snaps. It's also a great one to tick off if you're visiting London as a tourist, as it's close to many of the main sights.
Hyde Park Italian Gardens
Honestly, I probably could include every London park on this list, as they're all so beautiful in Autumn. But another favourite spot of mine is specifically the Italian Gardens in Hyde Park. This part of the park overlooks the water and colourful trees beyond, with fanciful Italian-inspired architecture adding interest to the foreground.
You'll find the Italian Gardens near the Lancaster Gate entrance of the park, just a couple of minutes walk from the station. It's always pretty busy, however I've shot here in the middle of the day before without any issues.
Looking for more Autumn Inspiration? Check out my guide to Autumn in The Cotswolds
I hope this guide to Autumn Instagram locations in London has been helpful! If you're looking for more ideas, I'd also recommend exploring Hampstead, Richmond Park, and the Kyoto Garden in Holland Park. And please do let me know if you have any other Autumn London photo spot recommendations in the comments!