The 8 best UK forests for an autumn walk as experts predict spectacular season.

According to The Sun: This summer, bright sunshine and warm temperatures have created perfect conditions for an unforgettable autumn in the country's forests.

Experts from Forestry England, based on meteorological data, assert that we can expect an extraordinarily vivid palette of reds, oranges, and golds, starting from mid-September and continuing through November, especially in the north.

Expert Expectations

Andrew Smith, director of forestry at the National Arboretum Westonbirt, notes:

“We have had a very warm and sunny summer which helps the trees accumulate sugars in their leaves, leading to these amazing autumn colors.

“Cool nights and shorter days that are approaching will trigger this change, and we expect a truly beautiful show this year.”

Autumn here is a special event, as Westonbirt is famous for its 1,800 species of trees from around the world and its cozy glades.

The grandeur of the maples is simply stunning – they are among the best in the world.

Color Expectations Across the Country

Here's where and when experts predict the brightest colors in the coming months across the UK:

• SOUTH ENGLAND: Forests like Alice Holt in Hampshire and Friston in East Sussex will start changing colors from mid-September, peaking in the first few days of October. Expect stunning golden oak leaves.
• EAST ANGLIA: Beautiful displays from late September to mid-October in forests such as Thetford in Norfolk and Bedgebury National Pinetum in Kent. A vibrant mosaic of reds, oranges, yellows, and copper hues will surely impress you.
• In Bedgebury, the changing leaves create a striking contrast with the evergreens.
• CENTRAL ENGLAND: In Salcey Forest in Northamptonshire and Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, the peak of color is expected from late September to mid-October, with interesting combinations of yellow, copper, and fiery orange shades.
• NORTH ENGLAND: Forests like Grizedale in the Lake District National Park and Kielder in Northumberland will reach their peak slightly later – around early to mid-October, but here the colors often last longer thanks to cooler temperatures and higher rainfall.
• SOUTH WEST ENGLAND: Forests like Haldon Forest Park in Devon, Cardinham Woods in Cornwall, and the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire predict early color manifestations from mid-September, with the brightest displays likely in the first weeks of October.

Expect an impressive combination of golden beeches and bright chestnut trees.

This year, autumn promises to be particularly vivid, thanks to the good weather in summer. Many will be able to enjoy the beauty of nature while walking through the forests, discovering new, stunning vistas. Don’t miss the chance to see nature change before your eyes!