Wildlife walks this autumn

Autumn is a fantastic season to get out and about in the British countryside and discover wildlife. We’ve selected some of our favourite self-guided walks at places we look after, so you can do just that.

Brent geese over Strangford Lough, County Down, Northern Ireland

Bird-watching walks 

Autumn is the time to look out for hundreds of varieties of migrant birds, seeking refuge from the harsh winters of Scandinavia, the Arctic and northern Europe. From geese and swans to redwings and fieldfares, there are plenty of birds to look out for. Here are some of our top autumn walks for bird-watching - don't forget to take your binoculars.

Find bird-watching walks
The deer in Knole Park

Deer rut rambles 

The deer rut is one of the iconic sights of autumn. There are resident deer herds at several of the places we care for, so pull on your walking boots and see if you can witness the annual spectacle. Just remember not to get to close and it's best to leave your dog at home during deer rut season.

See the deer rut
A red squirrel sitting on the branch of a tree

Top places to spot red squirrels 

The red squirrel is an endangered British species. However, by managing their habitats and keeping out grey squirrels, there are opportunities to spot them at places we care for. In autumn, the squirrels are easier to spot as they come down from the trees looking for nuts ahead of winter.

Top places to spot red squirrels
Basking Blakeney seals

Seal-spotting walks 

Atlantic grey seals begin breeding in September, with the pupping season continuing right through until November. We look after several places, which are great for spotting these white-furred pups in autumn, but it's important to keep your distance when they come ashore.

See seal pups

Latest visiting update 

Our gardens, parks, cafés, shops, countryside locations and many houses are open. You no longer need to pre-book at many places. Some still require booking ahead, so please check the property webpage before you travel.​

Visiting and booking changes
An Adonis blue butterfly

Give back to nature 

More than ever before, nature has been our source of comfort during difficult times. But climate change is accelerating the decline of these green spaces. Nature gives us so much – donate today and help us protect these places and the wildlife that lives there.

Donate now