Ten lovely autumn strolls In England
This Sunday is the official first day of autumn! And what better way to get in the spirit of the season than by getting out into the crisp air and enjoying a jaunt or two. Cold, dark, and rainy winter days will be here before you know it, so now is the time to soak up the remaining sunshine and catch a glimpse of the beautiful autumn foliage.
Here are ten of our favourite walks to enjoy this season…
1. Nature Connection In New Forest
One of the UK’s 15 national parks, the New Forest is famous for its diverse woodlands and abundant wildlife. With cattle, ponies, and donkeys roaming freely through the park, a visit can feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Explore the many paths by foot or bicycle and be sure to stop at one of the adorable local teahouses for a cuppa.
2. Off The Beaten Track In Beckenham
At 96 hectares, Beckenham Place Park is Lewisham’s largest green space and one of the finest wildlife areas in the borough. There are some amazing old-growth trees scattered around the park and in autumn the foliage can be stunning. The imposing, Grade II listed manor home that gave the park it’s name is now a cafe and community center.
3. Paddling Gorgeous
Peak District National Park is easily one of Englands most beautiful landscapes, and this rugged jaunt through Padley Gorge shows off some of the highlights. Forest paths, expansive views, waterfalls, ancient stone walls, what more could you ask for?
4. Into The Woods At Tring Park
Just a short journey outside of London, Tring Park is an incredible public open space encompassing a variety of landscapes including undulating grassland and mixed wooland. It is managed by the Woodland Trust and part of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Before you start on your jaunt, stop off at the Tring Natural History Museum to learn more about the area’s biodiversity.
5. Angel To Broadway Market
You certainly don’t have to leave the city to find some of those lovely autumn leaves. Take a stroll on Regent’s Canal and you will find vibrant orange and red foliage lining the water on both sides. There are plenty of little cafes to stop at for coffee, cute house boats to admire, and swans for the kids to feed.
6. Heather On Higger Tor
Another stunner from the Peak District, this walk crosses the heather moors and features some wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. Although late August to early September is the peak time for blooming heather, this walk is unmissable anytime of year.
7. Fishy Adventures In Gold Island
In the summer this island in Northumberland might be great for refreshing river swims, but in autumn its all about leisurely walks and minnow fishing. Sit on the banks on of the slow-moving North Tyne, have a picnic, and try your hand at catching a few tiddlers. Be sure to throw them back though!
8. Oxleas Wood & Severdroog Castle
This hidden gem in Southeast London takes you through some ancient deciduous forest with sections as old as 8,000 years! Aside from all of the flora and fauna, there is also a hilltop castle to see. Severdroog is a gothic-style folly built in 1784. It is is open to the public and has a viewing platform with 360 degree views over London.
9. A Magical Walk Through Abney Cemetery
Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or you just want a slightly spooky walk for Halloween, Abney Cemetery is the spot for you. It is the first arboretum to be combined with a cemetery in Europe, and the overgrown nature of the plots does feel very unique. Have a wander around the wooded trails and keep and eye out for friendly spirits.
10. To The Mortal Man
A walk through the rolling hills of Troutbeck ending at The Mortal Man pub, one of the top beer gardens in all of England. Along the way you will pass wooded gorges, quaint farms, roaming flocks of sheeps, and dense fern thickets.
These walks are some of our favourites but there are plenty more to choose from on the app. Or, if you have a much-loved walk that isn’t on there, why not curate it yourself and share it with friends!
Get out there and enjoy a jaunt!