A Peak District beauty spot has been named among some of the country’s best places to go for an autumn walk.
The outdoor experts at GO Outdoors analysed TripAdvisor reviews and average rainfall to reveal the best places for an autumn walk.
A National Trust location, Padley Gorge was named third best in the whole country. Taking the top spot as the best place for an autumn walk was the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, with a score of 9.3 out of 10.
Following in second place was Winkworth Arboretum, with a score of 8.51 out of 10. Rounding out the top three was Derbyshire’s Padley Gorge, with a score of 8.35 out of 10.
Home to beautiful wooded landscapes, this gorge thrives in autumn, with nearly one in four (23.9%) reviews mentioning ‘autumn’.
The gorge also has various easy-to-moderate trails, including the Padley Gorge and Burbage Brook walk, making it an accessible destination for walkers of all levels to explore in this season.
Also on the list of top autumn walks is Cragside in Northumberland, Richmond Park in London, Sheffield Park & Garden in West Sussex, and Westonbirt, The National Arboretum in Gloucestershire.
Natalie Wolfenden, author and hiking enthusiast at GO Outdoors said: “There is still so much to explore when summer comes to an end.
“The UK’s natural beauty comes to life in the autumn months, with the leaves shifting colour and the changing wildlife, I simply love it!
“To fully enjoy your autumn stroll, preparation is key. Layers are essential in the autumn months as they can be added or removed depending on the weather conditions on the day.
“What’s more, rain can come when least expected, so be sure to wear a good pair of walking shoes as well as packing a waterproof jacket and trousers. This will help you make the most of your walk, no matter what the weather throws at you.”
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9. Padley Gorge
The scenery on this walk changes with the seasons, right now it is a riot or autumnal orange. We recommend visiting this spot throughout the year to enjoy it in all seasons. | Visit Derbyshire & Peak District
10. Padley Gorge
The walk is perfect for family days out. Your walk will take you onto an old packhorse route up onto Owler Tor where you can enjoy far reaching views across the county on a crisp autumn day. | Visit Peak District & Derbyshire
11. Padley Gorge
The walk can also be combined with a visit to Padley Chapel, a Grade I listed building located at the site where the ‘Padley Martyrs’ - two Catholic priests who were executed for treason - were discovered in 1588. | Andrew Tryon