Leaf is beautiful as Scotland puts on spectacular autumnal display

THE days are getting colder and the nights are drawing in – a sure sign that winter is well and truly on its way. However, with Hallowe’en just around the corner, there’s still an autumnal spirit in the air.

As these incredible pictures show, the Scottish countryside is aflame with rich red and orange foliage and teeming with wildlife. With the country set for one of the driest Octobers on record, you’ll be able to enjoy crisp hill walks and trick-or-treating trips without having to worry about being caught in a sudden downpour. Thanks to high pressure over Scandinavia, northern Scotland has already seen more sunshine than it normally would in the whole of October, making for some spectacular sun-drenched views across the glens. From beautiful pink and purple sunsets, to cheeky red squirrels storing nuts, there’s plenty to see in Scotland this season. These stunning images truly show that autumn is a second spring, where every leaf is a flower.

Inspiring: Tree-lined avenues at the Nelson Monument in Glasgow Green Majestic: A red deer stag surveys Glen Affric, a Highland walker’s haven

Imposing: Ferns turning red by a stream in a glen near Strathyre, Highlands

Steamer: A train crosses Glenfinnan’s ‘Harry Potter’ viaduct Shepherd’s warning: Sunrise over Campbeltown Loch

Laid back: A red squirrel scoffs some mixed nuts at Tentsmuir forest, Fife

Technicolour: Red and green trees in Rouken Glen park, East Renfrewshire

... and shepherd’s delight: Red sunset at Loch Leven