Autumn colours
Head to an English garden to see all the golden majesty of autumn
Gardens undergo an absolutely stunning transformation in autumn. See a myriad of colours as trees put on their most colourful foliage, and animals preparing for the winter. Autumn gardens are a beautiful place to unwind, or to play with children and pets.
Hergest Croft Gardens, Herefordshire
One of the finest collections of trees and shrubs in England creates a dazzling display of autumn colour in Herefordshire. Reds, yellows, purple and gold leaves glisten throughout the Azalea Garden, Maple Grove and Park Wood. The gardens extend over 70 acres with more than 5,000 rare trees and shrubs, perfect for an autumjn amble taking in the rich, earthy tones of the season.
Find out more about Hergest Croft Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London
Kew's arboretum comes into its own in the autumn with its vast collection of beautiful trees in the midst of seasonal change. If the weather is not being kind, head inside and experience the tropical climate of the glasshouses, followed by a well-earned coffee and cake at one of the on-site cafes. Look carefully and spot the dasylirion wheeleri making its way through the roof in the Princess of Wales Conservatory.
Find out more about Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Calke Abbey, Derbyshire
A designated National Nature Reserve and home to some of the oldest trees in England, Calke Abbey is an atmospheric place to watch autumn roll in. The park looks beautiful as the leaves gradually change colour to every shade of red, yellow and brown. Calke is also home to roaming red and fallow deer, providing a memorable autumnal sight as the bucks (male deer) lock antlers to compete for the does (females).
Find out more about Calke Abbey
Batsford Arboretum, Gloucestershire
One of England’s largest private tree and plant collections with 56 acres of wild gardens, paths and streams, Batsford Arboretum is a treasure trove of wonders. It features a Japanese tea house, a gigantic Buddha, and a waterfall, providing a spectacular backdrop as the autumn leaves are gilded and the colours flare to life.
Find out more about Batsford Arboretum
Harewood House, Yorkshire
The Lakeside Gardens of Harewood House are particularly spectacular in autumn when the changing leaf colours can be seen reflected in ‘Capability’ Brown’s enormous 32-acre lake. Explore the rolling vistas and feel the leaves crunch underfeet on invigorating autumn walks.
Find out more about Harewood House
Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex
Over 120 acres of historic landscape garden with meandering paths that take you through glades, along the edges of lakes, and over bridges. The Japanese maples, swamp cypresses and birches create an intense autumn colour in Sheffield Park and Garden. Marvel at the beautiful variation of golds and reds set in a beautiful landscape.
Find out more about Sheffield Park and Garden
Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Cheshire
The informal woodland of The Duckery is especially beautiful in autumn. A tranquil setting and the perfect spot to sit and relax to the sounds of nature, Cholmondeley Castle Gardens are full of autumnal magic. The towering backdrop of the castle is hauntnig and romantic, giving you the perfect excuse to cuddle up to someone you love.
Find out more about Cholmondeley Castle Gardens
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
A hillside woodland with over 1,000 different shrubs and trees, many of them rare, is waiting for you to wander and explore. Enjoy the autumnal pallet of golds, browns, coppers, bronzes and reds, all reflecting in the ripples of the lake. Lose yourself in the majesty of the parkland, and then stop for a cup of tea in the Arbor Tea Room.
Find out more about Winkworth Arboretum
For more about English gardens, try our collection of Spring Gardens