The East of England counties of Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Essex, and Bedfordshire have plenty to offer anyone looking for a weekend break, any time of the year. Here are some suggestions on where to go, what to see, and where to stay if planning to travel in September or October to enjoy an autumn weekend break.
Weekend Breaks in September
Where to Go
While the weather remains warm, it's time to take in the pleasures of the Essex coast. At other times of year the climate here on the exposed North Sea coast can be what people like to describe as 'bracing'. But in September it should still be pleasant, and with the summer crowds starting to wind down.
Where to Stay
The Beaches Guesthouse on Thorpe Bay in Southend-on-Sea is a comfortable place that provides impressive views of the Thames Estuary from four of its seven rooms.
What to See
Resorts like Southend and Clacton are brash and fun, and visitors can join in the traditional English seaside delights like tucking onto fish and chips and enjoying an end-of-pier show – the West Cliff Theatre in Clacton is one of the few places where visitors can still enjoy one of these old-fashioned entertainments. Southend has its amusement parks and aquarium, its beach and pier, and in September its Illuminations will be in full swing.
What to Do
Visiting the coast in September doesn't mean having to stay in a busy resort. Explore the historic fishing town of Leigh-on-Sea, with its quaint Old Town, cobbled streets and cockle sheds. In Frinton-on-Sea stroll along the elegant Esplanade or relax on its quiet and secluded sandy beach.
Weekend Breaks in October
Where to Go
Bedford has in the past been a centre for both the wool trade and for lace-making, though both have now been largely consigned to the history books. One local industry that is still very much alive and well, though, is brewing, and October is the month to come here to enjoy the annual Bedford Beer and Cider Festival. It takes place early in the month and lasts for four days, usually starting on a Wednesday and building up to the second Saturday in the month.
Where to Stay
Stay in style at the 4-star 18th-century Bedford Swan Hotel, originally built for the 5th Duke of Bedford and right in the centre of town.
What to See
Bedford also has the Cecil Higgins Gallery, a fine art gallery that's based in the recreated Victorian home of the Higgins family, who were local brewers.
What to Do
The Bedford Beer and Cider Festival is the perfect opportunity to sample not only the fine local ales but beers from all over the world. There are usually over 100 British beers to choose from, and many more both draught and bottled from renowned beer-making countries like Belgium, France, Holland and Germany. Ciders and perries are featured too, and there's also entertainment and a live music concert on the Saturday night.
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Other Weekend Break Ideas
Weekend Breaks in the East Midlands in July and August
Weekend Breaks in the East of England in July and August
Weekend Breaks in the East Midlands in September and October
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Mike Gerrard - Mike is an award-winning travel writer who has worked for National Geographic, the London Times, and many other clients. ...
