Autumn

Autumn in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley

A Spectacle of Seasonal Colour and Natural Wonder

Autumn is a season of transformation, and there’s no better place to experience it than the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. As the leaves shift from deep greens to vibrant golds, fiery reds, and warm ambers, the landscape becomes a living canvas of seasonal change. Whether you're a seasoned leaf peeper, nature lover, or simply after an unforgettable weekend away, this is the perfect time to visit.

What is leaf peeping?

Leaf peeping is the simple yet magical act of soaking up the changing colours of autumn foliage – and nowhere in the UK does it quite like here. With over 20 million trees in the Forest of Dean alone, and a rich mix of oak, beech, birch, sweet chestnut, and larch, the natural spectacle of autumn is nothing short of breathtaking and makes it the best lead peeping experience in the UK. As the days shorten and the temperatures drop, the forest canopy ignites in colour, drawing visitors from across the country to see it for themselves.

When to visit for peak autumn colour

Timing is everything. The best autumn colour usually appears from mid-October to early November, although every year is slightly different depending on weather conditions. Whether it’s a crisp morning or a golden sunset, you’ll find dazzling displays of seasonal change around every bend in the trail or roadside viewpoint.

Explore the UK’s First Leaf Peeping Drive

To help visitors make the most of the season, we created the UK’s first dedicated Leaf Peeping Drive. This 50-mile circular route connects 10 stunning hotspots where the autumn colours truly shine winding through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, offering visitors the opportunity to see a wide range of tree species in their autumnal glory. From high vantage points like Symonds Yat Rock and The Kymin, to peaceful lakeside strolls at Mallards Pike or the mystical woodland of Puzzlewood, this is one of the most scenic drives you’ll take all year.

Accessible Autumn Adventures

Autumn is for everyone. Many of our top sites including Cyril Hart Arboretum, Beechenhurst, and Mallards Pike - are fully accessible, and there are many accessible walks in the area. Whether you're driving the route or heading out on foot, there are ways to enjoy the season’s splendour without compromise.

The Walking with Wheels project also makes all-terrain electric trampers available for hire, allowing for more adventurous exploration of sites like Symonds Yat Rock and Cyril Hart Arboretum. One is conveniently located from The Speech House Hotel and is ideally booked in advance to ensure its available when you need it.

Meet Our Chief Leaf Peeper – Ed Drewitt

Naturalist, wildlife detective and zoologist Ed Drewitt is our Chief Leaf Peeper. His seasonal insights help visitors find the best viewpoints and understand what makes our woodland so special in autumn. His top tip? Look for the contrasts – the russet glow of larch and golden oak against the evergreen hollies and yews.

Ready to Fall for Autumn?

Autumn in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is a sensory delight. Watch the mists rise over rivers and valleys, feel the crunch of leaves underfoot, and breathe in the crisp, earthy scent of the season. It’s the perfect time for photographers, walkers, foodies, and romantics alike.