The leaves are crunchy under foot and Bonfire Night is over, so what to do before the Christmas preparations really kick in? The next few weeks of autumn are the ideal time to get away for a few days-make the most of the lower prices and the wonderfully crisp seasonal weather. This is the best time of year to get out into the countryside and see the UK in all its glory. This is also a great way to kick-start the fitness regime before the excesses of the festive season! Just lace up your boots, wrap up warm and don’t forget the waterproofs just in case the heavens do open!
If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are four fantastic country walks.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
One of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 84 mile long Hadrian’s Wall is a must for outdoors enthusiasts. Autumn is a great time to explore this part of Northumberland before the winter weather renders some stretches impassable. Start with a stroll from Chesters Walled Garden which takes you on a journey to one of the most picturesque forts on the Wall. Or if you’re feeling up to the challenge, spend three days walking the entire wall from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Located close to the town of Tetbury, Westonbirt Arboretum is a 600-acre forest in the Cotswolds containing 2,500 species of trees. The 17 miles of accessible pathways criss-cross the Arboretum and are just begging to be explored. Autumn is THE time to visit when autumnal leaves combine to produce a kaleidoscope of colours to be enjoyed. Crunch your way through the fallen leaves and then head to Tetbury for a town packed full of traditional English charm.
Lizard Peninsula
A stroll around Cornwall’s most southerly point is fantastic for all abilities and particularly good for bird watchers. During the autumn, many birds such as swallows journey south to warmer climes and autumn is also the time when northern migrating whooper swans make Cornwall their winter home. Walking along the peninsula also offers you dramatic views of the rugged coastline and out to sea. Being in Cornwall, make sure you find time for a delicious cream tea as the perfect way to reward yourself for an energetic afternoon.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Now fully-opened, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a 186 mile route around the western coast showcasing some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. Try the 13 mile stretch from Whitesands to Solva which takes you along a fairly gentle stretch of path with several steep sections to charming Solva. Within easy reach of the picturesque city of St David’s, this walk is a great way to spend a few hours.
www.sykescottages.co.uk have a great selection of holiday properties throughout the UK. Sykes Cottages holiday properties make a great base for exploring the beautiful countryside the UK has to offer and a great place to kick off your muddy boots at the end of a tiring day.
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