In Awe of Autumn

Stourhead Gardens, Wiltshire

Opened in the 1740s, Stourhead Gardens is a truly magical place to visit. With breathtaking scenery, garden buildings and its majestic lake, which is surrounded by various types of trees and shrubs, enjoy a few hours of peace and tranquillity as you take a relaxing stroll around the 1,702-acre estate. Dogs are welcome at certain times of the day, and there are plenty of picnic spots for you to take a well-earned rest and take in the autumn splendour around you.

Rococo Garden, Cotswolds

Designed in the 1740s by Benjamin Hyett, Rococo Garden is a stunning place to explore, offering spectacular countryside views and endless greenery. Discover a vegetable garden, fanciful buildings and lofty trees that really come to life during the autumn season. For kids big and small, there’s a fun maze to get lost in, too. Can you find your way out? And when bellies start to rumble, take a long pit-stop in the charming café, where you’ll get to enjoy delicious cakes, scones and hot drinks to warm you up. If you love art or wish to learn more about it, you’ll love spending the entire day at Rococo.

Ancient Trees Walk, Petworth

Trees and golden leaves are the epitome of autumn, and Petworth Park is home to an assortment of trees that are up to 950 years old. Head to Deer Park for an autumn wander and witness the bold yellow leaves adorning the Red Oak trees. You’ll also be able to spot bats, birds and many other different species of insects.

If you’re feeling particularly active then why not take the four-mile walk? It lasts around one and a half hours and it can get a little steep and muddy, but the views are so worth it.

Brownsea Island, Dorset

Brownsea Island offers so much to see and do, as well as the opportunity to spot its resident red squirrels or peacocks. The island sits in the middle of Poole Harbour with dramatic far-reaching views out to the Purbeck Hills. During the walk, there are paths that lay directly underneath an array of trees, and in the autumn red, yellow and golden leaves litter the ground, allowing you to enjoy the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot. In quiet periods, you’ll feel like you’re the only person there...

Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey

Bursting with Japanese, American and Norwegian maples, you won’t find autumn colours more rich and vibrant anywhere other than Winkworth Arboretum. The 2.5-mile walk takes you on a journey through the spectacular woodland, until coming to a dramatic pause on the top of Hydon’s Ball. Be prepared to have your breath taken away by amazing views of the Surrey landscape.

If you continue on a little further, you’ll discover Hambledon; a charming village that’s home to Oakhurst Cottage – a largely unchanged 16th century building. On the way back, refuel with a visit to The Arbor Tea Room, serving hot meals and light lunches to leave you feeling warm and content.