As autumn creeps in, it seems Brits aren’t too sad to bid farewell to summer. With longer nights and cooler days, many of us relish the chance to snuggle under a warm blanket or wrap our hands around a hot drink, and TV presenter Angela Scanlon is no exception.

Research commissioned by Costa Coffee found that a third of adults become ‘cosy comfort seekers’ as soon as autumn arrives as they love to snuggle up indoors, listen to the rain, light candles, and indulge in their favourite comfort foods. Other top joys of autumn include the crunch of leaves underfoot, curling up with a good book, and spending evenings with puzzles or games.

The Irish star recently joined her walking club, the ‘Hot Messers’, for a stroll through Epping Forest to celebrate the return of autumn, and the return of Costa's Maple Syrup range.

Describing why she’s a huge fan of the season, Angela said:"I absolutely love autumn - and not just because it matches my hair. It sneaks in with its crunchy leaves and smug sunsets and suddenly I'm wearing knitwear like it's a personality trait."

"It's the only season that actually wants you to slow down and let's face it we could all do with a nap. It's the ultimate reset - a season of hot drinks, half-baked plans for weekend escapes, and full permission to lean into cosy like it's a competitive sport," she added.

More than half of autumn-lovers admitted they have a tendency to romanticise the season and think of it in an overly positive way. Admitting it makes them feel nostalgic, and more reflective or thoughtful.

However, nearly four in 10 enjoy dressing more for autumn, with these saying the top reasons are they can mix style with comfort – or break out the chunky boots.

On average, people who enjoy a hot drink have four more hot drinks every week in autumn than they do in summertime. They're also likely to try a new autumnal season hot drink when they launch.

For 15 per cent seasonal drinks are one of the things they love most about autumn coffee shop visits – while 17 per cent enjoy the rich aroma of fresh coffee.

Gennaro Pelliccia, spokesperson at Costa Coffee, added: "As Angela says, autumn invites reflection and comfort. We see every day how a hot drink can be part of that – a small ritual that makes the season feel special.

"Our autumn range celebrates exactly that sense of slowing down and savouring the moment."