Woodlands are special at any time of the year, but as summer slips into autumn – and leaves turn to amber and gold – they morph into places of pure magic. Conservation charity the Woodland Trust protects about 1,000 wonderfully wild woods throughout the UK, all free to visit, each one offering the chance to roam and space to play.
Perfect spots for a relaxing ramble or impromptu picnic, these woods also host dozens of diverse activities throughout the year. From bushcraft trails and fungi forays, to woodland art workshops and mini-beast hunts, you’ll find plenty for all ages to enjoy.
Autumn action
There’s nothing better than crunching through leaves on a crisp autumn day (apart from thawing out in front of a crackling fire after your hike, of course). The Woodland Trust’s seasonal events will help you make the very best of your local woods, whatever the weather. Guided wildlife tours, themed picnics, nature walks and other fun experiences will all be happening somewhere near you, so discover how you can get involved: woodlandtrust.org.uk/events
Three great Woodland Trust days out
Apple day at Cefn Ila, Usk, Monmouthshire
Sunday 18 October, 10am-5pm
Explore the majestic orchard to discover apple pressing, apple games and den building. You can even pick up a free apple tree. Shuttle buses run from Usk car park all day. Booking essential*: apple18@woodlandtrust.org.uk
Autumn festival, Hargate Forest, Tunbridge Wells
Sunday 18 October, 10am-3pm
Enjoy bushcraft activities, deer demonstrations, woodland foraging and much more at
this fun family-friendly festival celebrating autumn. Booking essential*: autumn18@woodlandtrust.org.uk
Autumn walk, Skipton Castle woods, North Yorkshire
Saturday 24 October, 1-3pm
Enjoy spectacular autumn colour and collect seeds to
help nurture the next generation of native trees. Book by emailing autumn24@woodlandtrust.org.uk*
*Please state on the email how many people you will be bringing.
