Golden Autumn breaks  2026 “Leaf Peeping “

Golden autumn breaks in the Wye Valley

Autumn in the Wye Valley is something special. Cool, clear days, woods full of colour, then back to a warm cottage, a soak in the hot tub or a seat by the woodburner.

Whether you are after a proper walk through rustling leaves, a cosy romantic escape, or a few days of pink cheeks, wellies and windswept hair, our cottages make a comfortable base. You can spend your days outdoors, then come back to settle in with the heating on and something good to eat.

We offer 7, 3 and 4 night autumn breaks at our warm, welcoming cottages from late September to late November.  Other durations are often possible, so please ask. Come for Halloween or Bonfire Night, get out on a bike, or enjoy those classic “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness” days.

If you fancy a bit of Christmas shopping while you are here, Cardiff, Bath and Cheltenham are all within reach, as well as our own characterful market towns. Bring your cosiest autumn woollies and enjoy both the great outdoors and the great indoors.

Autumn colours in the Wye Valley

Other countries talk about “fall colours” and “leaf peeping”, but you do not need to travel far. The Wye Valley is recognised as one of the most beautiful woodland landscapes in Britain, with much of its 4,300 hectares in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In autumn the woods turn gold, russet and red, and the views can be breathtaking.

Autumn colours depend a lot on the weather. A good wet spring helps trees to produce sugar-rich leaves, then sunny days and cool nights in September and October really bring out the colour. Early heavy frosts or strong winds can shorten the show, so timing your visit can make all the difference.

The Forestry Commission’s live autumn colour map for the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is a handy way to see when the trees are changing and when they are at their best. The link only goes live once the colours start to turn each year and the timing varies, but it is well worth checking before you come.

One October guest at Tintern Abbey Cottage wrote:
“Tintern Abbey is just over the road although it may as well be in your front garden. It appears out of the mist on a chilly October morning and it just takes your breath away.”

How long is a short break with us?

Many places offer a weekend “short break” that runs from Friday to Sunday morning. We prefer a more relaxed approach. Our weekend short breaks usually run from Friday afternoon to Monday morning.   We know some people need to leave on Sunday, but this extra time means you can stay as much of the weekend as you are able. No rush to be out first thing, just a lie in, an unhurried walk and maybe  a nap after Sunday lunch before you head home.

If you would like to stay longer than a short break, just ask.

Foxes Reach,  Catbrook   – the one with the hot tub

At Foxes Reach we offer:

• 3 or 4 night midweek short breaks
• 3 night Friday to Monday and 4 night Monday to Friday breaks

All breaks at Foxes Reach include use of the private hot tub. There is time for long soaks under the autumn sky and a glow by the woodburner afterwards, whether you come for a weekend or a few midweek nights.

When autumn break prices are first shown they are usually for a party of up to 6. Reductions for a party of only two may be available on some dates. If they are not showing yet, please ask.

Tintern Abbey Cottage, Tintern – stroll to the pub and the Abbey

At prizewinning Tintern Abbey Cottage, 3 and 4 night midweek autumn short breaks for two using the whole cottage usually start in late September / early October and run into late November. There are also good-value options for parties of up to 6.

You can gaze at the Abbey from the cottage, watch the mist lift from the valley, or stroll to the pub for supper. The Times has strongly recommended Tintern Abbey Cottage as a winter getaway, and it feels just as special in the golden weeks of autumn.

Weekend prices are for a party of up to 6. Reductions for a party of two are available on certain dates.

Booking your autumn break

Check current availability and prices on our website, or get in touch if you have dates in mind or would like to ask about a particular length of stay. We are happy to help you plan a visit that makes the most of the autumn colours.