Heddon Valley, North Devon
This beautiful, secluded valley is nestled on the coast of Exmoor National Park and has been a firm source of inspiration for many romantic poets over the years. The walk from Heddon Valley to Woody Bay is six miles in total, and should take you between two and three hours. It’s easy to see why this route is regarded as one of the best autumn walks in the UK; the varied trail follows a historic 19th century carriageway and along some of the highest and most dramatic cliffs in England. The views along the coast and across to Wales are breath-taking.
In autumn, the path through the valley is brimming with vibrant yellow gorse and their sweet scent follows you right to the water’s edge. The first half of the walk follows the old Roman trail to Woody Bay, whilst the second half takes you alongside Great Burland Rocks and back up the valley. Once you’re back at the National Trust car park, you can treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream or hot chocolate – depending on what the autumn weather is up to!
Devil’s Dyke, Sussex
Sussex is home to some of the best autumn walks, and our favourite has to be Devil’s Dyke. Located on the South Downs Way, the 100m deep valley is a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the rarity of habitat and the importance of the plants, insects and animals that inhabit there. It’s just five miles north of Brighton, but is full of gorgeous views and you really do feel like you’re trekking through an idyllic painting.
We’d recommend doing the Ditchling Beacon to Devil’s Dyke walk as you’ll experience a real change in the landscape and colours. The flowering devil’s-bit scabious transforms the hillside into a blanket of purple: the autumn equivalent of spring bluebells! The walk is seven miles one way and should take you around three hours – so you can either walk back the way you came or hop on a bus and rest your legs! The Beacon is a glorious place to watch sunrise or sunset, and do keep an eye out on the trail as you will see lots of wildlife. During the autumn months, fungi sprout and shrubs and bushes are full of birds feeding on nuts and fruits.
Marloes Peninsula, Pembrokeshire, Wales
As stunning autumn walks go, Marloes Peninsula in Pembrokeshire is up there with one of the best. Not only does it boast some of the region’s best coastal views, the wildlife and vegetation is even more striking in the cooler months. The circular route is fairly easy at four miles, however it offers a variety of interesting points to stop on the way. You start from Marloes Sands car park and follow the path to Marloes Mere where you can look out for wetland birds.
In September and October, the coastal slopes are covered with the yellow and brown of fading bracken while the headland is riddled with purple common heather. On the trail, you will look out over Skomer and Gateholm island and pass a number of historic iron age forts. Do make sure you keep your eyes peeled as seals and their pups often take refuge in the coves after summer!
Glen Clova, Angus Wells, Scotland
Glen Clova is one of a series of steep-sided glens that together with Glen Isla, Prosen, Lethnot and Esk form the Angus Glens. There are a number of trails that you can explore, from easy rambles through the forest to more strenuous routes up a mountain. The best thing is, wherever you go in the Glens, you will be rewarded with endless beauty and fine views.
Whilst you will get to experience the beauty of autumn from the Glens at whatever time of the day, we’re always drawn to visiting at sunrise. Often, the foliage on the hillside and the morning mists combine to make an unforgettable scene. All is quiet and peaceful too, except from the gentle hum of the surrounding wildlife. As one of the best autumn walks in the UK, you will want to return again and again. There are several routes to explore, and we would recommend starting with the three hour route from Clova to Loch Brandy. It may be too cold to jump in the water, but the views make the journey totally worth it!
Allen Banks, Northumberland
This hidden corner of Northumberland has a rather magical feel. The dramatic gorge of the River Allen is surrounded by the biggest semi-natural woodland in Northumberland, and it really comes into its own in the autumn months. Forests of beech and oak cascade down the steep valley sides, and from October onwards you will see the leaves present their final colour change of the year.
To enjoy the best of Allen Banks, follow the trail from the car park at Ridley and through Staward Gorge for five miles. There are plenty of waymarked trails through the woods – at first they follow above the river, but shortly go alongside it. You will cross the footbridge at Plankey Mill before climbing up Staward Peel – this is where you will discover far-reaching views. In autumn, the woods are home to rare fungi, including puffballs, sulphur tufts and fairy inkcaps. You may also spot a Roe Deer or two, if you’re lucky.
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