Autumn Colours and Woodland Walks in the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean is ablaze with the colours of autumn at the moment. The leaves have been gradually turning gold, red and brown and it really is a lovely time of year to get out and explore the stunning landscape all around us.
At Edale House B&B in Parkend we are surrounded by the beautiful Forest of Dean. Take a short walk from our door in any direction and you will find woodland paths, cycle tracks, ponds, places to eat and things to do. Take a steam train ride to view the forest from the comfort of your train carriage, hire a bike to whizz through the trees on one of the many off road dedicated cycle paths or sample the delights of one of the local pubs or cafes. We’re in an ideal location to watch the changing of the seasons and we’re thoroughly enjoying seeing the forest brimming with rich autumnal shades before the trees shed their leaves for winter. Find out more about what there is to do nearby here.
Every season has its own treasures of course, but you could say that autumn is the BEST time to visit the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Temperatures are mild – not too hot and not too cold – and normally fairly dry, so it’s perfect for being outdoors. Kids are back at school so attractions, paths and roads are quieter. It’s brilliant if you enjoy foraging (courses are available) – mushroom season in the Forest of Dean is incredible with so many varieties and this year has been especially good. It’s a great season for local produce too, with an abundance of fruit, squashes, sweet chestnuts, walnuts and more plus apple days and harvest festivals in many towns and villages. Then there’s Halloween and Bonfire Night, pumpkin trails and firework displays too and before long we’ll have Christmas markets, fairs, lights, carols and concerts. But of course, the main reason this is such an attractive season is that the beauty of the forest is magnified as the leaves change colour and those golden shades of autumn cover the landscape.
Best Places to see the Autumn Colours in the Forest of Dean
From Edale House B&B we are just a mile to the stunning Cannop Ponds, which stretch out along a beautiful valley and make for a lovely walk at any time of year. The ponds are a haven for a variety of wildlife and the surrounding paths are well maintained and flat, suitable for the less able and wheelchair users. There is also RSPB Nagshead Nature Reserve directly behind us offering several different paths, ponds and viewing areas and with a rich tapestry of trees the autumn colours are breathtaking here. Find out more about the walking routes available on our Walking page. The forest really is on our doorstep here at Edale House B&B, and our guests can be immersed in the beauty of it without even having to get into their car. Then after a day out you can venture back to your cosy home away from home and enjoy a log fire in the living room with a cup of tea and a good book!
