Spots To See True Autumn
Gilly Pickup advises you on where you can find some of the best places to enjoy this season’s beautifully rich colours
1 BATSFORD ARBORETUM
From late September a shameless display of colour greets visitors to this charming Arboretum, a peaceful haven with fountains, waterfalls, hermit’s cave, archery range and children’s trail. A treasure chest of rare and unusual plants includes a comprehensive bamboo collection while ornamental Mountain Ash and flowering cherries bewitch in a blaze of orange, purple and bronze. You may also meet residents including falcons and tufted ducks all of whom like to call Batsford home. WWW.BATSARB.CO.UK
2 WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM
Gorgeous aromas, colours and textures – they’re all here at Westonbirt, renowned for its magnificent tree and shrub collection and gorgeous landscaped grounds. Autumn brings to life one of Britain’s best natural fireworks displays and from late September to November the arboretum is an outstanding profusion of colour. The Treetop Walkway offers spectacular views across the landscape while regular craft and discovery activities are ideal for families. WWW.FORESTRY.GOV.UK/WESTONBIRT
3 TRENTHAM GARDENS
Woodland trees reflected in the lake are just one element of the seasonal show here that is complemented by the Rivers of Grass, a prairie garden landscape. Other trees chosen with autumn in mind enhance the lakeside woodland walk. The gardens feature the UK’s first “barefoot” walk, and a children’s adventure play area. In the Monkey Forest visitors can walk amongst 140 free roaming Barbary macaques, a natural woodland environment for this endangered species. WWW.TRENTHAM.CO.UK/TRENTHAM-GARDENS
4 THORP PERROW ARBORETUM
This 85-acre Yorkshire arboretum displays a grand autumn tapestry. More than 2000 species of trees and shrubs live here. It also holds five National Collections including ash, lime and walnut, as well as a fine collection of cherries and crab apples. In the Bird of Prey centre visitors can see eagles, falcons and hawks. WWW.THORPPERROW.COM
5 HERGEST GARDENS
Deep in the heart of the Welsh Marches with fabulous views across the Black Mountains, Hergest’s collection includes 90 Champion trees, examples of the oldest, stoutest or tallest of their kind. See autumn’s sensational show throughout the Azalea Garden, Maple Grove and Park Wood and revel in the aroma of caramel as the Katsura tree starts to shed its leaves. Afterwards, relax with a cream tea in the on site café. WWW.HERGEST.CO.UK