The 6 Best Autumn Family-Friendly Nature Trails in the UK

As the leaves turn from green to shades of gold, orange, and red, autumn is the perfect time to explore the beautiful countryside with your family. The crisp air, stunning colours, and the chance to spot wildlife preparing for winter make autumn walks a magical experience, especially for children. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to get outside, stay active, and enjoy some quality family time.

The UK is full of fantastic nature trails that are ideal for families, offering everything from gentle woodland strolls to scenic coastal paths. Whether you’re looking for a short afternoon adventure or a full day out, here are some of the best autumn walks in the UK that are perfect for families.

1. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire

Sherwood Forest is a magical place to visit at any time of year, but it truly comes alive in autumn. Famous for its connection to Robin Hood, this ancient woodland is filled with towering oak trees, some of which are over 500 years old. The forest is a great place for children to run around, explore, and learn about nature. The Major Oak, a huge ancient tree thought to be Robin Hood’s hideout, is a must-see and makes for a great photo opportunity.

There are plenty of easy trails to follow, and autumn is a particularly good time to go as the forest floor is covered in fallen leaves, perfect for leaf-collecting and nature spotting. After your walk, you can visit the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre to learn more about the forest’s rich history and wildlife.

Family Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy it in one of the many open spaces in the forest. There’s also a fun adventure playground for the little ones to burn off some extra energy.

2. Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey

If you want to immerse yourself in autumn’s spectacular colours, Winkworth Arboretum in Surrey is the place to go. Managed by the National Trust, this arboretum is home to over 1,000 different types of trees, and during autumn, the landscape transforms into a blaze of colour.

There are several walking routes, ranging from short and easy paths perfect for younger children to longer, more challenging trails for families with older kids. Winkworth also has plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, with birds, squirrels, and other animals making their presence known as they prepare for winter.

Family Tip: Stop by the tearoom for a warm drink and a slice of cake after your walk – it’s the perfect way to end a crisp autumn day.

3. Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire

If your children have a sense of adventure and love fairy-tale settings, Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean is an unforgettable autumn destination. This ancient woodland is famous for its unique landscape of twisted trees, moss-covered rocks, and hidden pathways, making it feel like something out of a storybook. It’s no wonder that Puzzlewood has been used as a filming location for movies and TV shows, including Star Wars and Doctor Who.

Wandering through the forest’s winding paths and secret clearings is a thrilling experience for children, and there’s something magical about the way the light filters through the trees during autumn. Puzzlewood is a wonderful place for children to use their imaginations, exploring every nook and cranny of this enchanting woodland.

Family Tip: Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be a little uneven in places, especially after rainfall. You might also want to bring along a nature-themed scavenger hunt to keep the little ones engaged.

4. Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

For a truly picturesque autumn walk, head to the Scottish Highlands and explore the shores of Loch an Eilein. Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this serene loch is surrounded by ancient pine forests that look stunning in the autumn months.

The main walking route around the loch is around 4 miles and is flat and easy to navigate, making it ideal for families with younger children. The highlight of the walk is the ruined 13th-century castle that sits on a small island in the loch – it’s a great spot to stop and take in the views. The peacefulness of the area and the beauty of the autumn foliage make this a truly memorable walk for the whole family.

Family Tip: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red squirrels and birds of prey. There’s also a visitor centre where you can learn more about the area and its history.

5. Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire

Ashridge Estate, managed by the National Trust, is a fantastic spot for an autumn walk with the family. With over 5,000 acres of woodland, chalk downlands, and open countryside, there’s plenty of space to explore. The estate’s beech and oak trees turn a vibrant gold in autumn, making it one of the most stunning places to visit during the season.

There are several walking routes to choose from, with varying levels of difficulty. For families with young children, the shorter walks are ideal, offering beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Older children might enjoy climbing up to Ivinghoe Beacon, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Family Tip: After your walk, pop into the estate’s café for a hot drink and a snack, or visit the visitor centre to learn more about the estate’s wildlife.

6. Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland

If you’re looking for a family-friendly autumn walk with a bit of adventure, Kielder Water and Forest Park in Northumberland is a fantastic choice. The park is home to the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and is surrounded by miles of forest trails that are perfect for walking, cycling, and even wildlife spotting.

During autumn, the park’s forests are a riot of colour, and there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained, from easy lakeside walks to more adventurous hikes through the forest. Children will also love the play areas dotted throughout the park, as well as the chance to spot ospreys and other wildlife.

Family Tip: Make a day of it and bring a picnic, or take advantage of the many picnic spots around the lake. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider hiring bikes to explore the area on two wheels.

Conclusion

Autumn is the perfect season for family walks, with cooler temperatures, breath taking scenery, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re wandering through ancient woodlands, strolling by a peaceful loch, or discovering hidden corners of the countryside, these family-friendly nature trails across the UK will help you and your loved ones make the most of the season. These walks offer not only the chance to enjoy the stunning autumn colours but also an opportunity to reconnect with nature as a family.