Car rental experts at SIXT revealed the most magical UK spots to visit this autumn, with some being home to some of the bluest water in Europe.
SIXT examined high-resolution photographs of 100 of Europe’s most striking bodies of water, using colour-picking technology to measure their exact hues with the results pointing towards the Lake District and Northumberland’s Kielder Forest.
Derwentwater, in the Lake District, was ranked top of the list.
“Near the town of Keswick, Cumbria, in the Lake District, Derwentwater is officially the UK’s bluest body of water and the fourth bluest in Europe, and it looks that bit more magical in autumn,” SIXT said.
Derwentwater(Image: Tripadvisor)
“In 2024, Cumbria welcomed 42 million visitors, making it a popular destination amongst outdoor lovers. Here you can enjoy the Derwentwater Walk, a 10-mile path that circles the entire lake, bordered by stunning autumnal foliage.
“You can even grab a cosy pub lunch in Keswick with plenty of traditional public houses to choose from, and even catch a theatre show at Theatre By The Lake, showing classics throughout the winter.”
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Kielder Water in Northumberland came in second place.
SIXT said: “Kielder Water, located in Northumberland near the Scottish border, is the largest man-made reservoir in Europe, and it is home to the second bluest water across the UK.
“Kielder is also home to some of the darkest skies in England, making it the perfect spot for stargazing. Visit Kielder Observatory for night sky tours and stargazing events, the ideal autumn activity.
“There are also plenty of walking routes, including Bakethin Nature Reserve, where you could spot some red squirrels and the 26-mile loop of Lakeside Way, where you can dip in and out of sections and take in the autumn landscape.
Ullswater, in the Lake District, has ‘must-see’ sites, including waterfalls and walking trails.
It has the third bluest water in the UK and the second-largest lake in the national park, giving it a ‘beautiful autumnal wonderland backdrop in the cooler months’, SIXT said.
“Visitors can enjoy a scenic cruise on one of the historic ‘Ullswater Steamers’ between Pooley Bridge, Glenridding, Howtown, and Aira Force and allowing you to hop on and off to also enjoy the many walking trails.
“There is also a must-see 65-foot waterfall, Aira Force Waterfall. After you’ve done this, head to one of the local villages, such as Pooley Bridge in the North or Glenridding and Patterdale in the south, to warm up with a hot chocolate from a nearby cafe.”
