Autumn is by far the best season of the year. I don’t know about you but I get a feeling of warmth from this season, particularly when the leaves start to change to different shades of red, orange and yellow. Autumn makes everywhere seem more colourful, which means that outdoor pursuits are especially enchanting.
Below is a list of some places to visit in England, Wales and Scotland.
1) Pen Y Fan – Wales
This is in the south of Wales and is the highest peak in that area, measuring 886 metres tall. This is a nice gradual assent and the views are definitely worth seeing. At the bottom is a lake you can swim in after your hike, or save for another day.
2) Sgwd Y Bedol, Sgwd Gwladus, Sgwd Ddwli Isaf and Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf Waterfalls – Pontneddfechan, Wales
Wales is full of beautiful waterfalls surrounded by forests and wildlife. I highly recommend these four in particular as they are on a connecting route, which guarantees a great day out walking.
3) Westonbirt Arboretum – Tetbury, England
This arboretum is one of the best known and was established in 1829. This place is breathtakingly beautiful in the autumn, and is home to around 18,000 trees and shrubs which all change to a stunning array of autumnal colours – a soul-stirring sight.
4) Gower Peninsula – Wales
It may be autumn, and you may feel a chill, but the beach is the place to be. The Gower is known for its natural beauty and at this time of year you can get some great waves for surfing. If that’s not your thing you could watch the tide roll in while strolling along the coast, or if you’re a little more adventurous you could explore the caves.
5) Tregonhawke – Cornwall
This is part of Whitsand Bay which is a three mile stretch of sand with high cliffs and wonderful scenery. This place is popular with tourists, surfers and locals, and it has a reputation for being one of the finest beaches in England.
6) Sherwood Forest – Nottinghamshire, England
I personally think you should spend as much as your autumn as possible visiting forests, and Sherwood Forest should be top of your list due to is association with the legend of Robin Hood. The forest has 1045 acres to explore, and has stood the test of time having been around since the ice age.
7) Lake District – Cumbria, England
Come rain or shine this place is captivating and I have enjoyed many visits. The lakes cover such a large area that you will find many things to do, whether that’s climbing the highest peak – called Scarfell – walking around the gorgeous lakes, or hiking through the forest. After all that exercise you’ll want to finish with a cream tea. This is a very popular holiday destination but never feels crowded.
8) Lulworth Cove – Dorest, England
This area is part of the Jurassic Coast which is a world heritage site that stretches for 96 miles. At Lulworth Cove the waves have cut through the portland stone and created a horseshoe-shaped cove which makes for dramatic scenery. The cove is also close to Durdle Door, which means you can tick off two in one day.
9) Sandwood Bay – Sutherland, Scotland
If you are looking for somewhere different, and one that feels untouched by humans, this place is for you. It is a remote, one-mile long bay on the far north west coast and can be reached by a four-mile trek from a car park at the Halmet of Blairmore. It may not be the warmest place to visit but if you like solitude, and want to become one with nature, I highly recommend it.
10) Kilmun Arboretum – Scotland
Established in the 1930s, Kilmun has a wide variety of exotic tree species. With over 160 from around the world you won’t get bored. Kilmun is part of Argyll Forest Park so it offers a number of walks you can do, as well.
