5 woodland walks that were made for autumn

Behold the woodland walks worth exploring this autumn ...

Kingley Vale

Known for its twisted and ancient yew trees (which are up to 2,000 years old), Kingley Vale is home to fourteen ancient monuments, undulating chalk grassland and a variety of wildlife and notable birds, including green woodpeckers, red kites, buzzards and butterflies. If you go on a sunny day, climb up the nature reserve and out of the trees to discover the wonderful views over the Downs.

Foxley Wood

You won't stumble across many people at Norfolk's Foxley Wood, but you will most likely see a few deer. The largest remaining ancient woodland in Norfolk, there are over 350 flowering plant species that have been recorded here, which gives it a wonderful wild air. The eerily quiet pathways are particularly beautiful in autumn.

Brede High Woods

The woodlands in East Sussex are some of the most ancient in the UK. Walking through them is said to feel like taking in 10 different woodlands in one. Keep your eyes open for newts, buzzards, glow-worms and deer, plus the valley views over Brede High Heath.

Hackfall

Renowned for its natural beauty, Hackfall boasts original features such as grottos and glades, rustic temples and waterfalls, and an impressive number of woodland birds. Found on the edge of Grewelthorpe, it is beautiful in the autumn months, as the colours of the wood start to change - it's no surprise that Turner came to paint here along with a number of 19th-century writers seeking inspiration.

Glen Finglas

Home to some of the most ancient trees in the country, Glen Finglas was historically the hideaway of whisky smugglers. Known as ‘The Highlands in miniature", it's found at the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Walks range from quick strolls to 15 mile walks around the estate. If you opt for a longer walk, the woodland gives way to moorland with views to the Highlands - and make sure you look out for the red deer too.