A spectacular autumn ahead – Forestry England predict an early and vibrant colour display

26 August 2025

A spectacular autumn ahead – Forestry England predict an early and vibrant colour display 

This year's autumn is shaping up to be brilliant with trees in the nation’s forests expected to burst into autumn colour earlier than usual, thanks to this summer's record-breaking sunshine and warm temperatures.

Forestry England experts, working with Met Office climate data, say signs point to a particularly vivid display of reds, oranges and golds in the nation’s forests, starting in mid to late September and lasting well into November, especially in northern regions.

Andrew Smith, Director of Forestry England’s Westonbirt, The National Arboretum says:

"We've had a very warm and sunny summer, and that helps trees build up the sugars in their leaves that create those amazing autumn colours. The cooler nights and shorter days on the way will trigger the change, and we're expecting a really beautiful display this year."

What to expect and when

Thanks to a warm spring and significant sunshine in June, Forestry England are predicting a magnificent autumn. Visitors can expect to see the best colour in:

Southern England - In forests such as Alice Holt in Hampshire and Friston Forest in East Sussex, trees are expected to start changing from mid-September, with peak colour in early October. Look out for golden oak leaves.

The East – Expect beautiful displays from late September into mid-October in forests such as Thetford in Norfolk and Bedgebury Pinetum in Kent. Look out for a vibrant kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, yellows and coppers. At Bedgebury Pinetum, the changing leaves create a striking contrast against the backdrop of evergreens.

The Midlands – In forests such as Salcey Forest in Nottinghamshire and Cannock Chase Forest in Staffordshire, Forestry England predicts peak colour from late September to mid-October. Expect a strong mix of yellows, coppers and fiery orange tones.

Northern England - Forests including Grizedale Forest in the Lake District and Kielder Forest in Northumberland are expected to peak a little later – around early to mid-October – but colours here tend to last longer thanks to cooler temperatures and higher rainfall.

The South West - Forests including Haldon Forest Park in Devon, Cardinham Woods in Cornwall, and the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire are predicted to show early colour this year from mid-September, with the most vibrant displays likely in the first half of October. Expect a stunning patchwork of golden beeches and vivid sweet chestnuts. 

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum – With its 1,800 tree species from around the world set in a picturesque landscape of intimate glades and enormous trees, autumn is extra special. As usual, we expect nature’s firework display to begin in late September and roll-on through October all the way to mid-November. Be sure to catch the magnificent display of maples – one of the best in the world. 

Why it's happening

The Met Office reported that June 2025 was the hottest on record, with abundant sunshine and below-average rainfall in many areas, especially in the south and east. Though the changes in weather patterns due to climate change pose a number of challenges, these warmer conditions help trees produce more sugars in their leaves, which transform into the bright pigments we all enjoy in autumn.

If we continue to experience warm days and cool, dry nights in September, we could see one of the most flamboyant autumn displays in recent years.

Plan your visit

Forestry England care for over 1,500 forests across England, and many are perfect for enjoying the sights, smells and sounds of autumn. Whether it's a quiet woodland walk, a family bike ride, or simply sitting under a canopy of colour, there's something magical about this time of year.

Become a member and enjoy free parking at your chosen forest all year round – it's a great way to support the work Forestry England do and make the most of every season.

Andrew Smith, Westonbirt Arboretum Director continues:

"Autumn is a fantastic time to get outside and reconnect with nature. The nation’s forests are already starting to change, and with such promising conditions, we're expecting a colourful show from September right through to November."

For tips on where to see the best autumn colour near you, visit forestryengland.uk/autumn or follow us on social media using #autumnleafwatch for updates.