Discover how to spend a slow September day in Lacock, from coffee and historic walks to independent shops, cosy lunches and candle shopping at OLIV.
Yesterday, we held our autumn and winter photoshoot and we were blessed with sunshine all afternoon.
It was the kind of golden light that only seems to appear in late September, painting everything in warm orange hues and giving the village a beautiful, soft glow. It got me thinking about just how magical this time of year is.
OLIV Autumn candles: Egyptian Amber Medium Dual wick candle, Black Pepper & Oakmoss small single wick candle, Cuban Tobacco & Oak small single wick candle.
In fact, September might be my favourite month- especially here in Lacock.
The village becomes a little quieter, autumn wreaths begin appearing on doors, the scent of seasonal drinks drifts out from the coffee shops and fallen leaves scatter across the cobbled streets. Summer hasn’t completely disappeared, but there’s a freshness in the air that tells you autumn is on its way.
So, if you’re planning a visit, here’s how I would spend the perfect September day in Lacock.
First things first: coffee.
Pick up a takeaway from the village shop and enjoy it as you wander through the streets. Or, if you have a little more time, head into the grounds of Lacock Abbey and find the café tucked inside the courtyard.
Settle down with a warm drink and a scone before exploring everything the Abbey has to offer. Make sure you visit the second-hand bookshop and see how many famous filming locations you recognise from Harry Potter and other well-known films and television series.
Explore Lacock’s history
Once you’ve explored the Abbey, wander back into the village and take your time admiring all the characterful buildings.
Lacock is filled with history, from its timber-framed cottages and cobbled streets to the medieval Tithe Barn and the old village lock-up. You can also visit the Fox Talbot Museum and discover Lacock’s fascinating connection to the history of photography.
Keep an eye out for the autumn wreaths and seasonal decorations the residents have displayed along the way. It’s the little details that make the village feel particularly special at this time of year.
Lacock village in Autumn
Visit the independent shops
We’re incredibly lucky to have such a lovely collection of independent businesses in Lacock.
You’ll find jewellery, handmade crafts, locally made chocolates, gifts, homeware and plenty of other treasures as you explore the village. Shopping here feels slower and more personal, with something different waiting behind every shop door.
And, of course, no trip to Lacock is complete without a visit to OLIV.
Our shop is tucked inside a historic 15th-century courtyard, where you can browse our collection of hand-poured candles, home fragrance and carefully curated homeware.
Choose a warm, comforting candle to take home as a reminder of your day—and light it during those first cosy evenings as we transition into the new season.
For September, we recommend three of our most autumnal fragrances:
Egyptian Amber
Warm, comforting and softly spiced, with notes of orange, cinnamon, sandalwood, ylang-ylang and patchouli. It’s the perfect scent for creating a cosy glow as the evenings begin to draw in.
Cuban Tobacco & Oak
A rich, warm and woody fragrance made for slow evenings, autumn reading and relaxing at home under a blanket.
Black Pepper & Oakmoss
Fresh yet grounding, with an earthy depth that beautifully captures the transition between late summer and early autumn.
OLIV autumnal refillable candles
Stop for a cosy lunch
After a morning of exploring, head to The Sign of the Angel or The Red Lion for a relaxed lunch.
Whether you choose a comforting pub meal or simply stop for another drink, it’s the perfect opportunity to rest your feet and enjoy the atmosphere of the village.
Take the quieter route
Visiting with your four-legged friend or simply fancy exploring beyond the main village streets?
Walk up past the ford and continue towards Reybridge. It’s a lovely way to see another side of Lacock, away from the busier visitor routes, while enjoying more of the surrounding countryside.
Come and experience September in Lacock
September in Lacock is made for slow walks, warm drinks, historic buildings and the first cosy rituals of autumn.
Take your time, explore the independent shops and leave with a candle ready to light when you arrive home. We would love to welcome you to the village and to OLIV soon.
If you live a little too far away to visit us in person, you can still bring the feeling of autumn in Lacock into your home by shopping our full collection online.