Autumn in the forest

Family on walk through autumn woods
Paul Box

Autumn in the forest

Enjoy autumn colour in your local forest

Embrace the sights, smells and sounds of autumn with a visit to the nation's forests this season.

When we last asked, a whopping 97% of you said that the beautiful autumn colours boost your mood, so plan a visit to help yourself feel good this autumn. 

Discover an autumn colour walk near you or take time to focus on your wellbeing - by yourself, with friends and family or even with a four-legged companion.

Couple walking in autumn
Paul Groom

Find a nearby autumn walk with our ultimate guide

Discover woodlands packed with a palette of golds, reds and oranges as you collect fallen conkers, jump in leaf-piles and get the perfect photo. Whether you want a gentle stroll or an autumn adventure, discover your nearest autumn woodland with our handy guide.

How does autumn make you feel?

Are you drawn to the fresh autumnal smells? Do you feel calm surrounded by the changing reds, oranges and yellows? 

Focusing on being calm and quiet among the trees and observing nature can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way. Evidence suggests that exposure to forests has a positive effect on physical health, mental wellbeing and life satisfaction. 

We've put together a handy guide to forest bathing to help you relax and be mindful this autumn.

Women in pink coat walking through spring woodland
Child holding autumn seeds

Eight things to do with the family this autumn

With our forests displaying a breath-taking array of colours, autumn is a beautiful season to visit the forest with your family.

Hoping for some autumnal activities to do when you get here? Look no further, we've pulled together a list of things you can to do with the kids on your autumn walk.

Learn about autumn

Autumn Maple Leaves
Blog
Discover how and why leaves change colour during autumn, and what science is taking place during the changing season. Learn about chlorophyll, anthocyanins, carotenes and xanthophylls!
Young girl playing with a bucket of autumn leaves
Family activity
05 February 2024
Download the activity pack for a wonderfully colourful day out with the kids. Sign up to bring forest learning to life with our free downloadable activities!
A mushroom in the leaf litter
Blog
07 September 2022
It’s time to get the cosy jumpers out and kick your way through piles of fallen leaves. The nation's forests are a great place to feel those autumnal vibes!
Red stag with hinds
Blog
01 September 2022
Use our top tips to become a deer detective and get to know these majestic animals.