Imagine this: the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot whilst on a woodland walk; a fresh breeze blowing in from the sea on an island excursion; pulling a warm coat around oneself for a walk around an historic building; or simply going out for an afternoon stroll after the rain has cleared to blow the cobwebs away.
Few things can be as good for the soul as an autumn break in Scotland. With rural, coastal and urban locations all showing off the colours of the season and historic sites to explore, as well as thrilling tales to warm up those darker evenings, there is an autumn adventure waiting around every corner.
Walk this way
Scotland is quite the treat in autumn: rich golds, burnt brown, oranges and reds cover the land as the leaves change. It’s also a great time to spot wildlife as hedgerows are filling up with berries, and tree nuts and seeds are ripening. Check out some choices for a short, or longer, walk to really take it all in.
Wood of Cree, Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere-The UNESCO Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere is an ideal place to start an exploration of Scotland’s autumn palette, whether visiting the area as part of Scotland’s UNESCO Trail or just looking to escape for a stroll. The RSPB Wood of Cree is home to wildlife and offers the perfect autumnal woodland walk. Similarly, head for the Biosphere’s Cairnsmore of Fleet National Nature Reserve for the chance to be immersed in nature.
Deuchny Woods, Perthshire-Perthshire is a popular choice for those looking to experience Scotland’s autumn, with spots like Loch Faskally and The Hermitage. However, Deuchny Woods is a real hidden gem and favourite for dogs looking for plenty to sniff out under piles of damp leaves. At 5.5km, the circular route is manageable for a range of abilities and takes less than two hours to complete. An uphill start, it’s worth it for the incredible views over Kinfauns and the River Tay. With gorgeous botanicals, check out the bright yellow gorse, the unusual jewel-red tones of the fox-and-cubs (it’s more commonly orange) and millions of juicy brambles to forage safely (for foraging rules and guidelines in Scotland, see here).
Roslin Glen Country Park, Midlothian-Roslin Glen Country Park is a great location to explore for its diverse range of habitats and associated wildlife. With pathways to woodlands, riverside and weir, wildflower meadows and historical features, it is particularly eye-catching in autumn as trees explode with colour; beech, oak and sycamores provide an incredible canopy. There are path links to the Penicuik to Dalkeith Walkway, Roslin Village, Castle and Chapel and Springfield Mill. The lower Glen and Car park area is partially accessible to wheelchair users via a river looped path.
Ness Bank, Inverness-Ness Bank in Inverness is a feast for the eyes in the later months of the year with swathes of golden leaves. To add to this, the Ness islands are a collection of natural islands that sit in the middle of the River Ness, connected to the riverbanks and throughout by beautiful Victorian footbridges. Just a short stroll away from Inverness city centre, it is a place of natural beauty to take a breath, get some exercise or just watch the world go by.
Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, Lanarkshire-Located just an hour from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the reserve is famous for its spectacular waterfalls and scenic woodland walks. It is also home to New Lanark UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over 100 bird species have been recorded including dipper, raven and kingfisher. It is particularly magical in autumn, for all to enjoy (although visitors should read the access guide here) with beautiful colours on arrival. Do as much (or as little) of the full circular walk; there are waterfalls to observe, areas where dogs can enjoy the water safely, a visitor centre and plenty of history to uncover.
Craigellachie, Moray Speyside-Situated at the meeting point of rivers Spey and Fiddich, the village of Craigellachie offers a veritable riot of colour come autumn time. The village sits at the foot of Ben Aigan which offers a five-mile hike and a rewarding view of the Moray coastline when reaching the summit. It is a moderately difficult walk and will take around 2-3 hours from the car park at the bottom of the hill. Speyside Way, one of Scotland’s long-distance routes, skirts the town and is ideal for walkers and cyclists. (for more information on the long-distance route, see here).
See also: www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/landscapes-nature/forests-woodlands/autumn
Main photo: Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, Lanarkshire. Photo: Kenny Lam/VisitScotland.
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