Autumn is such a beautiful time of year; the colours, the morning mists, the ripe fruits on the trees, the berries in the hedgerows, the bright sunny days, and the chillier evenings. It all adds to that wonderful autumnal feel. The sight of leaves turning colour can be spectacular, it’s a sight to make your heart sing, whether walking through woodlands or looking out over a valley, the reds and golds, orange and russet spread like a cloak over the countryside.
This year the autumn colours are even more amazing than usual, and there’s a reason for that. That long hot summer we all enjoyed meant that the trees produced more sugar in their leaves, and consequently more anthocyanins, so the reddy colours become more vibrant as the days grow shorter and they stop producing the chlorpyhll that makes the leaves green in the spring and summer. In a nutshell, that’s the science. And the predicted combination of warm daytime temperatures and cool, dry nights means the colours will be more vivid and last longer than in other years.
So, let’s embrace it, let’s open our arms to autumn in all its joyful splendour. Let’s get out there, kick up the leaves, catch them as they drift down on the breeze, pick up the conkers and chestnuts shaken from the boughs by the wind, let’s get a whole load of that glorious autumn vibe. The West Country is renowned for being a very scenic part of the UK, so we’ve zoned in on Somerset and some of the best places to see the autumn colours in the county. Let’s go for a wander…
Horner Woods, Exmoor
Covering 800 acres on the Holnicote Estate, the ancient woodlands at Horner Woods are beautiful any time of year, but especially so in autumn when the trees and bracken are ablaze with colour. Crunch your way through last years’ fallen leaves, follow National Trust managed trails through the woods, amble amongst centuries old pollarded oaks and mossy banks – it’s all so enchanting. You might notice several types of fungi, if you're silent you might see deer making their way through the trees.
Good spots for autumn colour in Horner Woods are Granny’s Ride and Flora’s Ride near Porlock, the paths that run alongside the Horner Water, and the summit at Webbers Post where the views are spectacular. Afterwards go and warm up by the fire at The Ship Inn at Porlock.
Ashton Court Estate
A stroll around the Ashton Court Estate this time of year is such a joy! The colours are incredible with the diversity of tree species and the backdrop of the city views. Highlights include the 700 year old Domesday Oak, and a Gingko tree that turns a brilliant shade of yellow,;soak it all up with a stroll around the mansion house and the ponds, wind up at the cafe for coffee for hot chocolate.
Hestercombe House & Gardens
The gardens at Hestercombe are a sight to behold in the autumn, with all those rich hues of the season enhanced by late blooming flowers and shrubs. The acers with their ruby red leaves are particularly eye catching, the background of lakes and follies adds to the magic. While you’re here go and see the latest exhibition in the gallery and round off your visit with tea and cake in the Stables Restaurant.
Montacute House
The gardens at Montacute House feature several late blooming flowers including dahlias and winter crocuses; the parkland is a-dazzle with the gorgeously golden hue of the lime avenue and striking tones of red, gold and brown from mature trees like oaks, sweet chestnuts and London plane. Walk ankle deep in last years’ fallen leaves, collect conkers and chestnuts.
Dunster Castle
Dunster has all the full-on seasonal vibes this time of year, especially in the castle gardens. Set on a hilltop with astounding views over the countryside and the Bristol Channel, autumn is laid before you in all its glory, a rich tapestry of colours filling the valleys. In the Keep Garden there’s a striking red oak, stroll along the Mill Walk and you’ll be walking beneath golden-yellow Lombardy poplars. Back in the village there are several tea rooms and pubs if you need to fill your belly.
Forde Abbey
The landscaped gardens at Forde Abbey are full of delights all through the year, from snowdrops in the winter and daffodils in the spring through to the magnificent display nature puts on here in the autumn. The gardens and arboretum are bursting with colour, with highlights being the shimmering gold beech hut reflected in the lake, the vibrancy of the maples, the bright yellow fan shaped leaves of the gingko and the multi-hued sweet gum tree. Go at half term and you can pick a pumpkin from the walled kitchen garden, then head to the front lawn to join in the fun and frolics of Pumpkin Rolling.
Bath Skyline Walk
The Bath Skyline walk is a good way to appreciate how the beautiful autumn light falls softly across the city, the kind of thing you might not notice when you’re in the streets absorbed by all there is to see and do. This 6 mile circular walk takes you through woodlands rich in colour, graced with far reaching views of the surrounding countryside dressed in its majestic seasonal mantle. The Hare & Hounds near Alexandra Park where the Skyline Walk begins allows you more of it.
Tarr Steps
Back to Exmoor for a leisurely amble along the River Barle, camera at the ready. This time of year the whole valley is handsomely arrayed and the ancient stone clapper bridge set against the shimmering russet of the beech trees is a feast for the eyes and mind. For views from higher ground extend your walk to Withypool Hill, head back down and tuck yourself up in a cosy corner at The Tarr Steps Inn for a well earned drink.
Holford Combe
Holford Combe is one of the most visited spots in the Quantock Hills National Landscape and if you go there you’ll see why. Pick a crisp autumn day and you’ll climb up through sun dappled woodlands, hopping over streams as the path criss-crosses. It’s all rather magical, like a faery world. Look out for autumn fungi, listen for the soft dunk of falling acorns, catch a turning leaf on it’s way to the ground and make a wish. You never know, it might come true. Back in the village divert over the bridge that crosses Holford Glen, carpeted with beech leaves, and head to The Plough for a bite to eat.
So go and love an autumn adventure, fill your hearts with joy, your lungs with wholesome fresh air; stop and stare, take the time to appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the season. Go home with rosy cheeks, smiling faces, and wonderful memories.