Among the best places to visit in the UK in October is a stunning little English village with great independent shops and spooky history. Over the past years, October has been seen as the month marking the beginning of spooky season, which ends with Halloween. Pumpkin patches are attracting families across the country, and parents get these kids hyped to go out trick-or-treating in their costumes. But there are plenty of ways for adults to enjoy October even without kids, such as visiting the cosiest and spookiest towns and villages across the country.
One of those villages is nestled in the English countryside and boasts numerous independent shops, excellent pubs, and a cosy atmosphere all around. Meanwhile, it also has a famous history related to witchcraft, making it a true October highlight in the UK. The village in question is Burley in New Forest, Hampshire. Burley is home to just over 1,000 residents, but remains a stand-out village to visit around this time of the year.
Here, you will find quaint tea rooms, independent shops, cute cafes and wholesome pubs. And October is the best time to learn all about the village’s spooky history.
Sybil Leek reportedly was a famous ‘white’ witch who lived in the village in the 1950s and was often seen walking around in her long black cloak with her pet jackdaw. She was a student of occult and astrology, and she moved to the US as locals grew weary of her.
To this day, Burley’s witchy past is felt. A Coven of Witches is an independent shop in the village that opened as Britain’s first Wiccan shop in the 1950s. Today, it sells a variety of items related to witchcraft.
Other than its witchy connections, Burley is a wonderful place to visit as the leaves turn golden and line the streets and the evenings grow darker, thanks to its pubs and restaurants. Stand-outs in the village include The White Buck, The Burley Inn, The Royal Oak and The New Forest Inn.
When it comes to cafes, there are Shappen Cafe and Noohn. Independent shops in the village include Sybil’s Burl, which sells a range of locally made crafts and gifts. There is also The Old Shed, Cobwebs and Crystals, and Sorcerer’s Apprentice.
If you fancy grabbing a sweet treat during your visit to Burley, you can head to Away With The Fairies for ice cream. If you couldn’t tell by the shop names, this place really leans into the mystical appeal.
In terms of activities in Burley, there is plenty to keep you occupied. You can take a scenic ride through the area on a wagon ride, or visit the local alpaca farm for some time with wildlife.
Meanwhile, there is The Cider Pantry, where you can sample some local cider. If you want to stay in the area for a few days, there is the Burley Manor, which has received rave reviews from people who have spent time there before.
Aside from Burley, there are other towns and villages in the New Forest to explore, all of which are easily accessible to each other by car. They include Brockenhurst, Lymington, Milford on Sea, and Lyndhurst.