A landscape view of the colour trees from the meadow winkworth arboretum — The landscape painted by trees as Dr Fox envisioned | © Andrew Butler

Gardens and parkland in Surrey

This is the time of year when many of our gardens are at their peak. Look out for the first bright reds and ambers of the acer leaves at Winkworth Arboretum. The herbaceous borders at Polesden Lacey are full of spectacular displays of flowers - from late summer right through to the first frosts of autumn. Make the most of autumn days at Polesden Lacey, Claremont Landscape Garden, Winkworth Arboretum and Hatchlands Park.

Polesden Lacey

Polesden Lacey’s 1400 acre estate is home to 200 acres of ancient woodland, framing breath-taking views. The trees knit tunnels of yellows, browns and reds, casting an autumnal glow along the route. The views from the South Lawn at Polesden Lacey, are particularly stunning in autumn. The orchard is laden with apples, while the kitchen garden is full of flowers and produce.

Winkworth Arboretum

Winkworth is the National Trust’s only arboretum and it is famed for its autumn colour. The whole hillside at Winkworth Arboretum lights up in a kaleidoscope of colours in autumn. Acers, katsuas and maples are the stars of the show, while the liquidambar leaves turn crimson, orange and purple. The Dr Fox Autumn Amble is a winding walking route that takes in 10 colour bursts of the most techni-coloured corners of the arboretum at this time of year.

The path down to the Azalea Steps at Winkworth Aboretum, Surrey

Claremont Landscape Garden

Autumn brings beautiful and varied colours to Claremont with spectacular views from all around the lake, from high on Stoney Hill and from Camellia Terrace. Look out for the 300-year-old sweet chestnuts and lime-lined avenues, which light up in yellow. Duck under the canopy of the lakeside tulip tree and you’ll find yourself in a world of bright, beautiful yellow foliage.

Hatchlands Park

With waymarked walks to suit all abilities, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the parkland at Hatchlands this autumn. Delight in the vibrant red of the native wild service trees and the glorious mass of gold and yellow foliage of the beech woodland. Hatchlands has many ancient and notable trees including the boundary oak and twisted sweet chestnut. Later in autumn, the majestic oaks in the parkland turn to shades of amber, cinnamon and burnt umber.