Best walks for autumn highlights

Autumn is a time of wonder when the natural world turns a kaleidoscope of colour and landscapes come alive with wildlife events.

Exploring the gardens, parks, coast and countryside we look after on foot is a great way to experience this magical time of year and there are lots of different highlights to enjoy from our walking trails.

Bench surrounded by autumn colour at Sheffield Park Sussex

Autumn colour walks 

It’s not just the golden shades of the leaves that capture our attention in autumn, the landscapes we look after turn a rainbow of different colours which are a feast for the senses. Going for a walk among the amazing array of hues can even help us feel happier, healthier and calmer.

See the season's colours
The deer in Knole Park

Autumn wildlife walks 

Autumn is the time some of the UK’s most impressive wildlife events take place including deer ruts, seal pupping and the arrival of migrant birds – spectacles best glimpsed on foot. You can also spot fungi of all shapes, colours and textures on woodland floors and on the trees.

Walks for autumn wildlife
Anccient Ankerwycke yew tree

Ancient tree walks 

We look after magnificent ancient trees – trees which are remarkably old for their species – some of which have been the site of important historical events. These cathedrals of the natural world are wildlife-rich habitats so why not see what’s bustling about them on a walk this autumn.

Walk among ancient trees
View through woodland alley with autumnal trees at the Ashridge Estate

Woodland walks 

Woodland wanders are particularly special in autumn. Leaves crunch underfoot, champion conkers wait to be found, weird and wonderful fungi rear their heads and there are signs of wildlife everywhere. Why not stretch your legs and soak up the last of the autumn colours?

Wander through the woods
A girl and a boy enjoying hot chocolate and cake

Walks with cosy cafés 

What could be better after an autumn walk than a hot cuppa, homemade cake, warming soup or hearty seasonal dish? You’ll find lots of rewarding treats on menus at our tea-rooms during autumn and we’ve picked some of our favourite places for a pit-stop after a good stomp.

See our walks with cafés
Combe Park Lodge

Autumn walking breaks 

Stay at one of our cosy and characterful holiday cottages and truly get away from it all this autumn. We’ve picked some of our favourite places to stay with walking opportunities nearby in gardens and rolling parkland, wide open countryside and along the coast.

Enjoy an autumnal holiday