The best free outdoor autumn attractions in the UK as temperatures to hit 22C this weekend
AUTUMN definitely is here but the wet, wind and cold isn’t quite yet, which is great news as it means we can spend more time outside.
And with that in mind, the UK has tons of outdoor days out that are ideal for making the most of dry and warmer 22C autumn days.
From woodland activity trails to grand pumpkin patches, you don’t have to spend a penny to enjoy the autumn sun.
So here’s our top free autumn days out across the UK:
Richmond Park, London
National treasure David Attenborough recently said that Richmond Park is “both a refuge and a source of inspiration” and that he wouldn’t want to live anywhere else despite having travelled the globe.
Read more on travel inspo
And with all there is to do in Richmond Park, it isn’t surprising.
Visitors can see ancient oaks and herds of deer as well as head off on autumnal walks.
For a change of scene, from the park you can head into the town too and explore independent shops or walk along the river spotting the swans and ducks.
The Wye Valley & Forest of Dean
Sitting across the English and Welsh border, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is known as one of the UK’s most enchanting regions.
The site is actually an ancient hunting ground with over 20 million trees.
For visitors there are woodland walks, historical ruins and river adventures.
If you want a challenging walk, head up to Symonds Yat Rock or the Devil’s Pulpit.
Mam Tor, The Peak District
Mam Tor in the Peak District boasts panoramic views of the Hope Valley, and in the autumn it is even more special to visit with the leaves turning brown and yellow.
For a calm walk, there is a three-mile circular route that takes around two hours to complete and includes heading to the summit as well as the Great Ridge and Windy Knoll.
The Scottish Borders
Up in the north, the Scottish Borders has numerous free walking trails to head off on with historic woodlands and ruined abbeys.
There are plenty of free places to explore across the Scottish Borders area, including St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve where there are numerous walking trails.
Or head to Kelso Town Centre with a historic cobblestone market square and loads of independent shops.
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest
Located in Dorset, Moors Valley Country Park & Forest has an interactive play trail with famous characters including the Gruffalo and Zog.
There are a number of different play areas too, including the Snake Pit with giant wooden snakes that kids can scramble through.
The park is home to a lot of paid-for activities too, including Go Ape.
But if you only want to spend a few quid, then there are activity trail sheets you can pick up or craft workshops.
Heartwood Forest, Hertfordshire
Heartwood Forest is a Woodland Trust site that is free to visit and also has free parking.
Wander through the ancient bluebell woods and see newly planted trees.
On October 10, there’s even a short guided walk at Heartwood Arboretum.
You’d see 60 species of trees on the free walk, but you will need to book in advance.
Dalby Forest, North York Moors
Dalby Forest is spread over 8,000 acres, so there is plenty to explore with several miles of easy walking trails.
Make sure to look out for the free Gruffalo orienteering markers hidden among the trees.
There’s currently a sculpture trail at the forest too, along the Adderstone Rigg Trail.
Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Want to feel as if you have stepped into the likes of Wuthering Heights or Sense and Sensibility? Then head to Dartmoor.
This sprawling 368-square-mile national park in Devon is home to the most beautiful walks in the county, in my opinion.
From rock formations that look more like mythical beasts to river spots with giant stepping stones, the park boasts tons of possible days out.
And if you are lucky, you’ll be able to spot some Dartmoor ponies.
Alice Holt Forest
Alice Holt Forest near Farnham is thought to be one of the best family woodlands to visit in the south, with trails ideal for buggies and little ones.
The park also has a small café ideal for grabbing a cuppa if there is a chill in the air.
Charleton Fruit Farm
In Angus, Scotland, Charleton Fruit Farm is home to a huge pumpkin patch from October 9 that is completely free to visit.
There’s lots of other stuff to do at the farm as well for free, including the play park with go- karts, trampolinesand sandpitt.
You can also pick seasonal fruit at the farm, but this isn’t free – you’ll be charged according to the weight of what you pick.
Doddington Hall and Gardens
Doddington Hall and Gardens is another spot with a free pumpkin patch, where there are more than 30 types of pumpkins, squashes and gourds to choose from.
If you do want to buy one though, you of course will need to pay for this, with prices usually starting from £4.
Throughout the patch though, there will be some pumpkins with golden bottoms – if you find one, it means you’ll win the pumpkin, as well asa family ticket to Christmas in the Hall as well as a homegrown Christmas tree.
Wings, Wonders & Wildlife Trail at Sandilands
At National Trust‘s Sandilands in Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, you can head off on a free trail where families learn about six winter visitors.
Along the trail, visitors will test their knowledge with interactive challenges.
The trail is great for all ages and is self-led through the nature reserve.
