A recent study has crowned The Forest of Dean as the top spot in the UK for autumn walks, thanks to its breathtaking display of seasonal hues.
The research, conducted by Hot Tub Hideaways using satellite imagery and digital colour analysis, revealed that the forest is home to over 378,000 unique shades of orange, yellow, and red, making it an unmissable destination for nature enthusiasts this autumn.
Historically a medieval Royal hunting ground and a crucial source of timber for Tudor warships, The Forest of Dean was designated as the UK’s first-ever National Forest Park in 1938. It continues to be a favourite among tourists, particularly during the autumn season.
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As the seasons change the forest offers a plethora of picturesque routes for visitors to soak up the vibrant autumn scenery.
Visitors can not only marvel at the vivid autumnal colours but also delve into the forest’s intriguing industrial history, with traces of its extensive Victorian-era past scattered throughout, reports the Express.
For optimal leaf-peeping experiences, visitors are advised to explore certain key spots within the park. For instance, Symonds Yat Rock is a renowned viewpoint overlooking the River Wye, offering a spectacular display of autumn colours.
Wildlife lovers may also have the opportunity to spot Peregrine Falcons, Goshawks, or Ospreys during their seasonal migration.
The Visit Dean and Wye website boasts that the famous rock provides “unspoilt panoramas of the rich mixed forest landscape. Look below the rock to see an ancient woodland of small-leaved lime trees changing from a rich green to a golden yellow”.
“For an extra special view, take the Mailscot Wood trail turning right from Yat Rock car park for a lower viewpoint of the River Wye.”
Beechenhurst stands out as another beloved spot within the forest, welcoming families and outdoor enthusiasts alike; it’s the perfect location to soak in the stunning autumn colours.
As one of Britain’s most storied and vast woodlands, it features a children’s activity trail, a play area, and the exhilarating Go Ape high-wire adventure course.
Visitors can wander through the paths on foot, cycle down the Colliers Trail, or stumble upon secret artworks dotting the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, all before indulging in a warm beverage at the on-site cafe.
Picnic benches are dotted around for al fresco dining, and there’s the option to pre-book a gas barbecue for a heartwarming meal amidst the cooler weather.
For those looking for a serene stroll, the Cyril Hart Arboretum presents a chance to explore over 200 species of trees. The area offers an informal trail lined with benches for peaceful reflection in the tranquil surroundings.
And for those who’d rather enjoy the vistas without stepping out, a picturesque Drive known as ‘Leaf Peeping’ spans a delightful 50 miles.
In the UK first, visitors can choose to explore the entire route or select specific sections that showcase the best of autumn’s splendour. This allows them to immerse themselves in a world where radiant oak, ash and beech trees stand out against dense pines and yews.
The best autumn walks in the UK:
- The Forest Of Dean, Gloucestershire
- Richmond Park, London
- Delamere Forest, Cheshire
- Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire
- Epping Forest, Essex New Forest National Park, Hampshire
- Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
- Thetford Forest, Norfolk
- Gwydir Forest Park, Conway
- Grizedale Forest, Cumbria