6 scenic autumn walks

First planted during the Victorian era, Batsford Arboretum in the Costwolds has grown massively over the last century and now stretches across 56 acres, with a variety of trees from around the world. A particular joy in autumn when the trees burst into life with a mixture of deep oranges and vibrant reds, Batsford can be explored via a variety of trails and has an on-site garden centre, allowing you to recreate the scenery at home!

Managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, NT Wakehurst in West Sussex is home to several National Collections and various oddities, including England’s largest growing Christmas tree! Take a wander through the grounds, packed with plenty of autumn highlights including a candy-floss scented katsura tree, to discover everything Wakehurst has to offer - you can even take your dog along. 

Specifically planned and planted to spring to life in the autumn months, NT Stourhead in Wiltshire is a popular destination for visitors in October and November. Particularly tranquil in the mornings, a walk around Stourhead’s central lake is full of colour, thanks to the variety of trees and shrubs on the edges of the garden. Whether you’re early or late in the season, you’re bound to see something exciting and vivid here.

Spread across 200 acres in Hampshire, Exbury Gardens is an expansive collection of shrubs, flowers and unique features, like a tennis court tea garden! Autumnal highlights include the Top Pond and Jubilee Hill; both come to life near the end of the year, thanks to the bright, intensely coloured trees and flowers in close proximity. If you fancy a more sedate way to tour the gardens, step aboard the heritage steam train The Rhododendron Line. 

This fairly short walk may prove a little tricky for some, but trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views across the Lake District from the peak of the fell. The climb is just as pretty too; during the spring and summer, Cat Bells is lively and green, while in autumn, brown bramble stretches across the hill, giving a suitably dramatic feel to the area.

Venture through ancient woodland on one of the various trails that wind through NT Allen Banks for a true escape from the bustle and noise of modern life. Suitable for both families and dog owners, you can head straight for the picturesque Staward Gorge or take a little more time and get lost between the auburn trees and shrubs.