The best places to see Autumn leaves in the UK

As another glorious(ish) summer comes to an end, the arrival of autumn leaves season transforms national parks, commons, and secret gardens across the British Isles. The lush greenery and beds of wildflowers wilt, turning popular picnic spots into forests of fire. Wild ponies navigate the changing landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, amblers take to the New Forest for bracing strolls before hiding out in cosy pubs, and Londoners wrap up for weekend markets and strolls around historic parks. As they change from bright green to a kaleidoscopic spectrum of red, orange and yellow, these are the most beautiful places in the UK to take in the spectacle.

When can you see autumn leaves in the UK?

Depending on how long the summer sunshine sticks around, autumn leaves can be found falling across the UK from the end of September. That said, for guaranteed colours – and spectacular photos – the best time to explore is between mid-October and mid-November.

Where are the best places to see autumn leaves in the UK?

London's parks put on pretty fabulous displays of colour, but the footfall through the capital's central green spaces means the combination of rain- and leaf-fall can make things a little slushy. Head a little further out for undisturbed scenes, such as the nooks and crannies of Richmond Park and beyond into the rolling Surrey Hills, where there are many attractions and towns to stop off at.

The Peak District and Lake District are wonderful places in the autumn. Cosy fires roar in pub corners, hot chocolates keep amblers toasty on hiking trails, and pretty villages offer holiday cottages and bed and breakfast spots to get a good night's sleep.

Further north, over the Scottish Border, you'll find some of the UK's last true wildernesses. Glide through the lochs – look out for Nessie – and look to the hills, where auburn autumn leaves drift onto dewy grass, and keen walkers reconnect with nature.