Hundreds of observations reveal autumn is arriving at different speeds across the nation’s forests

13 October 2026 

Hundreds of observations reveal autumn is arriving at different speeds across the nation’s forests 

New data from Forestry England's Autumn Leaf Watch tracker shows autumn colour is emerging at different rates across the country, with some forests already glowing with shades of orange and red while others remain mostly green. 

Since launching in August, hundreds of observations submitted by visitors have helped build a real-time picture of how autumn is unfolding across the nation’s forests. 

Early results suggest there is no single moment when autumn arrives. Instead, colour is developing at different speeds from region to region and forest to forest, influenced by local conditions, tree species and geography. 

Early observations also suggest that horse chestnut and silver birch are among the species showing some of the earliest colour change, while many oak trees remain predominantly green, further highlighting how autumn is progressing at different rates across forests and species. 

Observations submitted in recent days show strong autumn colour in some locations, with visitors reporting orange and red canopies in forests including Forestry England’s  Haughmond Hill in Shropshire, Gisburn forest in Lancashire and Bolderwood Arboretum in the New Forest 

Meanwhile, observations from well-known autumn destinations including Forestry England’s  Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Bedgebury National Pinetum and Haldon Forest Park suggest autumn colour is beginning to emerge, with early signs of change appearing alongside plenty of summer green. Peak colour is still expected to develop over the coming weeks in many areas 

Chris Sorensen, Forest Management Advisor at Forestry England, explained: 

"The early results from Autumn Leaf Watch are showing just how varied autumn can be across England. Rather than a single moment when autumn arrives everywhere, we're seeing colour develop at different speeds in different places. 

"Some forests are already beginning to glow with shades of gold, orange and red, while others remain largely green and are only just starting to show the first signs of seasonal change. 

"It's a fascinating reminder that autumn is a gradual process, shaped by local weather, elevation, site conditions and the mix of tree species growing in each forest. 

"We're encouraging people to keep sharing what they're seeing. Every observation helps build a national picture of how autumn is unfolding and helps more people connect with nature during one of the most spectacular times of year. 

Forestry England's Autumn Leaf Watch tracker invites visitors to record the colours they are seeing in forests across the country. Participants can submit observations of overall canopy colour or take a closer look at five common tree species: oak, silver birch, horse chestnut, beech and sycamore. 

With many forests still reporting largely green canopies, Forestry England says some of the best autumn displays are likely still to come in the coming weeks.