Where to Find Autumn Colour in the UK
The British countryside comes alive with a palette of russet hues at this time of year and what better way to enjoy it than to discover the breath-taking landscapes on foot. From clifftop vistas to vibrant National Trust trails, take a look at the most picturesque walks to inspire you this Autumn.
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
Enjoy the splendour of the luscious maple-lined woodland on this stunning walk that takes you from Winkworth to Oakhurst. Expect blazing colours, spectacular views of the Surrey landscape and a quaint 16th century cottage as you reach the chocolate box village of Hambledon.
Brownsea Island, Dorset
Soak up the rich reds of Autumn with this mild and peaceful one mile walk through the unspoiled landscape of Brownsea. Enjoy incredible coastal viewpoints across the Daffodil Field and look out for red squirrels and redstarts at the lily pond.
Sheffield Park and Garden, South East
Famous for its flame-coloured displays, Sheffield Park really is a must-see during the Autumn months. Explore dazzling acres of landscaped gardens bordered by historic parkland, woodland and mirror-like lakes. Escape the crowds and head north of Sheffield Park to discover the quiet beauty of Walk Wood – a peaceful area of woodland steeped in history and wildlife.
Richmond Park, London
The quintessential Autumn spot and home to rutting stags and red and white deer, Richmond Park is the largest of London’s eight Royal Parks and the biggest enclosed space in London. Expect plenty of colourful foliage and arboreal beauty in abundance.
Regents Park, London
If Richmond Park is a bit too far out for you, why not head to the tree lined pathways of Regents Park instead? Beautiful all through the seasons but perhaps most impressive during Autumn with its technicolour display and carpet of golden leaves, it’s a sight to behold. Amble around the fairy-tale bridges of Queen Mary’s Rose Garden (most fragrant in Summer but beautiful in Autumn nonetheless), stop for a coffee in the café, visit ZSL zoo or take a pew on one of the many benches and just admire the view.
Ashdown Forest, East Sussex
Home to our favourite bear with little brain Winnie The Pooh, Ashdown Forest is a must-do for ramblers, budding photographers and Pooh stick champions alike. It’s easy to see why A.A. Milne was so inspired by its streams, distinctive heathlands and clumps of pine trees. There are countless walking opportunities to be had here, so escape the real world for a while and surround yourself in the magic of the Hundred Acre Wood. There are a series of free walking route leaflets available online or from The Forest Centre.
Batsford Arboretum, Gloucestershire
Enjoy wild walks through the myriad of Autumn colours and hidden glades at Batsford Arboretum. Lose yourself in 56 acres of wild garden famed for its kaleidoscope of colour and soaring birds of prey. Stop for a cup of tea and a slice of home-baked cake at the Garden Terrace Café.
Buttermere, Lake District
A breathtakingly combination of dramatic fells, rolling hillsides and mirror-like lakes, you’re be hard pressed to find seasonal displays quite like it anywhere else in the UK. The famous pines cloak the north side of the lake and, on a still day, are reflected in the contrasting blue water. Visit in the morning to make the most of its quiet beauty before the rest of the world is awake.
Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex
Just try and stop yourself from bursting into song a la Julie Andrews! Romantic painter John Constable once described the view from up here as the grandest view in the world and if that’s not enough to convince you it’s worth seeing, we don’t know what is. Just five miles from Brighton, the legendary Devil’s Dyke beauty spot boasts stunning vistas over the Sussex countryside whichever walking route you choose to take.
Stackpole, Pembrokeshire
Take a scenic windswept stroll around the limestone cliffs and sandy dunes of Barafundle Bay or meander your way among the fading bracken woods at the edge of the famous Bosherston Lily Ponds. Keep a look out for gorgeous otters and water birds.
Belton House, Lincolnshire
Immerse yourself in 1300 acres of all things autumnal. Rustle your way through crunchy leaves, magical misty mornings and the wonderful array of gold and yellow lime trees along the cobbled drive of Belton House. Take a wander past the church gate to enjoy the topiary framing a classic view of the north of the house. In rutting season, listen out for the husky bark of a majestic buck.
Castle Ward, County Down
You might be familiar with the grassy grounds and atmospheric woodland of this castle trail to Audley’s Castle, otherwise known as Robb’s camp in Game of Thrones. Wander through the impressive grounds of this beautiful stately home taking in the spectacular blaze of red and pink ivy, Japanese maples and fungi. If it’s good enough for GOT!
