Top autumn mindful walks
With impressive autumnal displays predicted by our experts right through until to mid-November this year, we've put together our top ten walks to help you refresh your body, mind and spirit whilst discovering breath-taking forest landscapes and incredible displays of colour.
1. Westonbirt, The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire – Autumn Trail
Experience autumn colours from all over the world as you wander along the autumn trail at Westonbirt Arboretum. Find a quiet spot under a Japanese maple in the Acer Glade and take a moment to be still among the vibrant colours that surround you during nature’s greatest show.
Top tip: Be sure to book! In order to visit the National Arboretum in autumn, we recommend visitors and members of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum pre-book a ticket before arrival.
2. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Kent - Pinetum Walking Trail (0.8 miles or 1.6 miles)
Discover the internationally significant tree collection of Bedgebury Pinetum throughout the seasons, on a route that is suitable for all ages and abilities.
These wheelchair friendly trails are perfect for stopping and noticing the array of wildlife.
3. Knightwood Oak, New Forest – The Oldest Tree trail (0.25 miles)
Take a short stroll from Knightwood car park, across the road to see the most famous tree in the New Forest. Believed to have been planted in 1600, this tree is still going strong. The path is a flat and fairly smooth gravelled surface with frequent resting places to give you plenty of opportunities to slow down and look up!
4. Fineshade Wood, Northamptonshire – Dales Wood trail (3 miles)
Taking between one and two hours to complete, Dales Wood trail leads you through a collection of broadleaved trees, revealing many shades of red, golden, purple, orangeand brown, a real feast for your eyes! For those who fancy something a little longer and more challenging, the Mill Wood walk (6 miles) is a treat for the senses. Some parts are more enclosed giving a cosy feel in the cooler autumn temperatures; meander through to really see the trees in detail.
5. Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire – The Pexton Moor trail (1.5 miles)
Head into Dalby forest and explore with your senses the Pexton Moor trail on this gentle walk. Situated close to the entrance of Dalby and passing through areas of ancient woodland this walk is perfect for moments of reflection. You may even spot some wildlife along the way.
6. High Lodge, Thetford Forest, Suffolk - Beech Trail (3 miles)
This trail is perfect for those wanting to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest. Further away from the visitor centre, this trail takes you through Risbeth Woods, perfect for a moment of mindfulness to soak in the atmosphere with all your senses.
7. Jeskyns Community Woodland, Kent – The Broomfield Loop (1.5 miles)
A gentle, undulating walk on surfaced paths that leads you through new woodlands, grazed meadows, orchards and ponds. A walk guaranteed to restore your mood and give you back your energy.
8. Moors Valley, near Bournemouth – The Look Out (1.5 miles)
This lovely meandering route takes you away from the visitor centre into the peace and quiet of the forest. The trail takes you to an amazing spot where you can let your stresses drift away, the Lookout. Once here you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the valley.
9. Wyre Forest, West Midlands – The Buzzard trail (3.25 miles)
The Buzzard trail explores the depths of the forest through beautiful mixed woodlands allowing your mind, body and soul to relax and unwind. The trail takes you along forest tracks and narrow paths, past majestic old oaks, as well as the Wyre Arboretum providing lots of opportunities to slow down and rejuvenate.
10. Grizedale, Lake District – The Tarn Trail (3.5 miles)
Follow the relaxing sounds of the stream as you leave the busy paths into the depths of the forest along the Tarn trail. The narrow path gives way to a wider track that opens up the colours of beautiful autumn that are on display at this time of year. Look out for the many sculptures you will pass and be sure not to miss the narrow path that leads to Grizedale Forest’s only natural tarn, where the changing colours of the trees will be gloriously reflected in the waters. As you descend back to the centre you will be rewarded with views of the west side of the forest and the ancient broadleaf trees that cling to the steep slopes, their leaves of green now giving way to the beautiful golden colours of autumn.
