The breathtaking forest has been named the best place in the UK for an autumn walk, according to outdoor experts Go Outdoors
According to Go Outdoors, a picturesque forest with minimal rainfall has been crowned the best location in the country for an autumn stroll.
The outdoor specialists analysed TripAdvisor reviews and average rainfall data to unveil the top spots for an autumn walk.
Claiming the number one position as the prime location for an autumn walk is the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, scoring an impressive 9.3 out of 10. The forest holds a TripAdvisor rating of 4.8 out of 5, and it’s evident that visitors are attracted to it during the autumn season, with 84 reviews mentioning the word ‘autumn’.
This ancient woodland has seen many transformations over the centuries including serving as a Royal hunting forest in medieval times, a timber source for the navy’s Tudor warships, and even serving as an industrial site in the Victorian era. In 1938 it became the first National Forest Park.
Nowadays the Forest of Dean is a sanctuary for nature, housing large areas of woodland and open spaces which provide a patchwork of habitats for a diverse range of wildlife, reports the Mirror.
Coming in second place is Winkworth Arboretum, scoring 8.51 out of 10. With over three quarters (78.2%) of reviews mentioning ‘autumn’, it’s clear that this Surrey-based arboretum truly comes alive during this season.
Overseen by the National Trust, it houses more than 1,000 tree species, with numerous varieties transforming colour during the autumn period. With comparatively modest rainfall, averaging merely 62mm from September to November, visitors can typically anticipate drier conditions for their autumnal walks.
Completing the top three is Derbyshire’s Padley Gorge, achieving a score of 8.35 out of 10. Featuring stunning woodland scenery, this gorge flourishes in autumn, with nearly one in four (23.9%) reviews referencing ‘autumn’.
The gorge also offers various easy-to-moderate paths, including the Padley Gorge and Burbage Brook walk, making it an approachable destination for ramblers of all abilities to discover during this season.
Natalie Wolfenden, author and hiking enthusiast at Go Outdoors, said: “There is still so much to explore when summer comes to an end. The UK’s natural beauty comes to life in the autumn months, with the leaves shifting colour and the changing wildlife, I simply love it!”.
“To fully enjoy your autumn stroll, preparation is key. Layers are essential in the autumn months as they can be added or removed depending on the weather conditions on the day. What’s more, rain can come when least expected, so be sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes as well as packing a waterproof jacket and trousers. This will help you make the most of your walk, no matter what the weather throws at you.”
