Autumn Colour Walks in the New Forest

There is something truly magical about a New Forest break at this time of year. This ancient woodland bursts into colour and takes on an altogether different tone; think fiery oranges, sumptuous golds and deep burgundies. It's a feast for all the senses with dappled light shining through the few leaves left on the ancient trees before they flutter to the ground, dramatic sunsets and the sound of crunching under foot.

Walking is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty all around and to uncover the secret spots of the New Forest. Head out on an adventure along one of these autumn colour walks to see the true beauty of this wonderful season.

Bolderwood Radnor Trail

This route is just under 2 miles, beginning at Bolderwood and taking you into the heart of the New Forest to explore the ancient and modern woodland before finishing with an opportunity to see the deer of Bolderwood.

Once past the Radnor stone, which has beautiful carvings of the New Forest wildlife, make your way through chestnut, beech and oak trees which are over 100 years old. You will then find yourself heading to Bratley Water among huge Norway spruce, thriving in the moist valley. Finish your walk heading past the deer viewing where there are herds of fallow deer to be seen.

Bolderwood Radnor Trail

Exbury Gardens

With over 200 acres of woodland, there is plenty to see at Exbury Gardens; awash with the colours of autumn and a huge variety of trees and plants from around the world. Exbury have even shared their top 5 spots for each season, with autumn including Jubilee Hill, Maple Walk and Mrs Lionel’s Seat.

Autumn sees Exbury flourish with colour, from azaleas and waterside maples to numerous varieties of dogwood. The acers begin the annual colour changing process which transform the atmosphere of the gardens, with over 450 at their last count. Exbury also exhibits a number of trees and plants from countries including China and America which showcase spectacular autumn colours.

Exbury gardens

Blackwater Tall Trees Trail

This short trail is in the heart of the New Forest and has an impressive collection of trees from across the globe. You will see some of the tallest, heaviest and toughest trees in the world, including enormous redwoods, some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in Britain and conifers which were planted in the 1950’s.

Blackwater Tall Trees Trail

After your autumnal walk, head to New Forest Hotel, The Montagu Arms to warm up in front of the fire with a hot drink. Why not stay for a spot of lunch at Monty’s Inn too?

View the menu