Every season has its charms in the British capital, from the dazzling Christmas lights of Piccadilly to the fragrant rose gardens of Regent’s Park. But, I’d argue, London truly shines in autumn. With over 3,000 parks within its boundaries, places like Hampstead Heath and Holland Park transform into vibrant canvases of color each fall. However, if you’re truly dedicated to “leaf peeping,” a day trip to the countryside is a must.
Vogue has compiled a list of 12 stunning autumnal destinations near London, offering the perfect escape to experience the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness at its best.
Cliveden, Berkshire:
Few country estates boast a past as scandalous as Cliveden, originally built by the Duke of Buckingham in the 17th century as a home for his mistress, the Countess of Shrewsbury. Legend tells that he chose this location for its breathtaking views of the Thames, and the autumn foliage along the river remains as captivating centuries later.
Epping Forest, Essex:
Spanning over 5,000 acres, Epping Forest is a breathtaking expanse of deciduous trees, primarily oaks, beeches, and hornbeams. The forest offers an excellent opportunity for foraging; however, be sure to follow the Woodland Trust’s guidelines to avoid causing any damage. Currently, sloes and rosehips abound in the forest.
Hever Castle in Kent:
Surrounded by 150 acres of woodland, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, Hever Castle, offers dedicated leaf-peeping guides. Witness the castle’s façade adorned with Boston Ivy, currently painted in the deepest shades of red. Wild swimmers, take note: with advance booking, you can now enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake.
Blickling Estate, Norfolk:
Nestled within 5,000 acres of parkland in a bend of the River Bure, this Jacobean estate is renowned for its ancient yew hedges. Its oaks, beeches, and limes transform into a spectacular display of autumnal colors.
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey:
Boasting over 1,000 species of trees, many of which are incredibly rare, Winkworth Arboretum truly shines in autumn. This year, the colors are particularly spectacular. The crimson Japanese maples are deservedly famous, as are the golden hickory trees.
Anglesey Abbey, Cambridgeshire:
Between the 1920s and 1960s, Lord Fairhaven, the then-owner of Anglesey Abbey, meticulously renovated the house and grounds, transforming its meadows into a captivating Georgian-style garden. Designed to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, the Temple Lawn, in particular, is ablaze with colorful elms and willows.
Stourhead, Wiltshire:
The parklands surrounding Stourhead are dotted with architectural marvels, including a recreation of the Pantheon and a Temple of Apollo. In autumn, these structures are framed by coppery swamp cypresses, butter-yellow tulip trees, and glorious crimson dogwoods.
Audley End, Essex:
Capability Brown masterfully designed the gardens at this Victorian estate, which boasts a rare 18th-century Howard oak. The parterre, conceived with autumnal colors in mind, is a feast for the eyes, and the kitchen garden is planted with 150 varieties of apples, from Knobby Russet to Peasgood’s Nonsuch.
The New Forest, Hampshire:
The New Forest offers a glimpse of New England fall, right here in England. Interestingly, the famous New Forest ponies are moved to different fields during autumn, replaced by pigs that roam the forest and feast on fallen acorns, an age-old tradition known as pannage.
Stowe, Buckinghamshire:
Stowe is undoubtedly one of the most captivating stately homes in Britain, with its blazing foliage perfectly reflected in the ornamental lakes. Sophie Thomas, the head gardener, offers tours of the grounds, ensuring you don’t miss any of the leaf-peeping highlights.
Ashdown Forest, East Sussex:
Famously the inspiration for A.A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood, Ashdown Forest once served as a medieval hunting forest. The forest offers breathtaking views of autumn foliage, and you might even spot fallow deer amongst the trees.
Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire:
One of the most stunning viewpoints in the Chiltern Hills, Dunstable Downs is awash with golden foliage this time of year. Follow the National Trust’s trail to the nearby Whipsnade Tree Cathedral, planted by a First World War infantryman in memory of his fallen comrades.
