The best autumn walks in the Midlands

autumn westonbirt

Stunning autumn walks near you in the Midlands

If you're looking for colourful autumn walks to enjoy near you in the Midlands, look no further! We've summarised the top autumn spots in the Midlands, so you can find your nearest vibrant colours, breathtaking views, and mindful moments of forest tranquillity. 

Couple walking in autumn forest

Discover the ancient woodland of Salcey Forest

Salcey Forest, South Northamptonshire

Choose your perfect autumn route, from a brisk 1.2km stroll to freshen up your morning to a 10km walk around the whole of the forest.

Whilst you’re crunching through leaves, keep an eye out for one of the many veteran oaks that can be discovered throughout the ancient woodland and look out for the rare species of butterflies regularly spotted in Salcey Forest.

Hicks Lodge, Leicestershire

Located in the heart of the National Forest, Hicks Lodge is a former coal mining site that has been totally transformed by new plantings and a range of exciting walking, cycling and horse-riding trials.

Take a moment at the lakeside bird hide where you can soak in the magnificent autumnal scenery and spot some unique wildlife.

bench in front of a lake

Take a moment at Hicks Lodge

Autumn coloured canopy from below

Enjoy nature's fireworks at Fineshade

Fineshade Wood, North Northamptonshire

Fineshade Wood is bursting with opportunities to explore the great outdoors this Autumn. The three way-marked walking trails offer a beautiful mixture of deciduous and conifer woodland, with play areas and a Zog trail for the little ones.

Be sure to hunt out the Gruffalo sculpture as well!

Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire

The most popular forest in the East Midlands has something to offer everyone for an autumnal day out. Although this forest has long been a destination for mountain biking, there is an array of waymarked trails for walking and running too, including the Ranger’s Path.

For something a little different, there are play areas, Go Ape and Disc Golf to try, with Camping in the Forest for those that are looking for the perfect autumn escape.

Be sure to finish up at the Sherwood Pines Café – a tasty end to an autumn adventure.

Sherwood Pines forest view

Explore the autumn paths of Sherwood

Wyre autumn colours

See ancient oaks

Wyre Forest, Worcestershire

Wyre Forest is the largest woodland National Nature Reserve in the country and can be found to the west of Birmingham. Marvel at autumn colours in the ancient oak woodlands.

With a variety of walking, cycling, running, and horse trails available, there are plenty of ways to explore the forest during the season.

Autumn in the forest

Woman with camera taking photo in autumn
Blog
21 September 2023
Share your #AutumnLeafWatch photos to win! Enter our photo competition to win a national membership, £200 to spend on new photography kit and Teemil merchandise.
Autumn Westonbirt
Blog
17 August 2020
Discover our top autumn activities for families and make the most of a visit to the forest.
Couple walking in autumn
Article
05 September 2022
Feel good in the forest this season with an autumn colour forest walk. The sights, smells and sounds of autumn flood our forests, providing the best places to see autumn colour near you. Find an autumnal walk near you, whizz through the leaves on your bike, or take time to focus on your wellbeing with your canine companion. 97% of you think that the beautiful autumn colours boost your mood, so plan a visit to help yourself feel good this autumn. 
Young girl playing with a bucket of autumn leaves
Family activity
05 February 2024
Download the activity pack for a wonderfully colourful day out with the kids. Sign up to bring forest learning to life with our free downloadable activities!