Autumn days out

Autumn is a great time of year to take the kids outdoors for the day. Here are some places with plenty of pretty colours for you all to enjoy, and lots of leaves for the kids to play around in - all recommended by visitors to this website.

Robin Hood and more

The East Midlands offers much family fun among falling leaves. At Sherwood Forest the kids will love the colours - and you’ll all love the magic of Robin Hood.

At Oakamoor, Staffordshire there is an old rail track suitable for bikes and pushchairs. Walk up past the watermill by the small lakes cascading down and enjoy the view - beautiful any time of year, but best in the autumn.

Nearby, in the Churnet Valley you’ll find peaceful canals, chugging barges, an old steam train, and a frosty fog hanging in the air. The dogs will love the freedom and the children will love playing. So breathe in the crisp air and enjoy one of life’s free pleasures - a glorious (long or short) walk.

From changing heath land colours to yellow birch leaves and crispy bracken, there is everything to see on Cannock Chase. You’ll find stunning autumnal trees and foliage as well as the heavy scent of pine and if you are very lucky, a family of deer.

Ponies, deer and Winnie-the-Pooh

You’ll also find deer in the New Forest, Hampshire. On a clear, cold morning, with sun coming up and a slight dewy mist, chestnut leaves crunching underfoot, ponies grazing, you’ll think this is autumn at its finest. If you're looking for somewhere to stay at the New Forest we have special offers for Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa and Sandy Balls Holiday Park.

The Ashdown Forest, Sussex - the home of Winnie-the-Pooh – also offers the chance to see deer if you look carefully, as does the Ashridge Estate in The Chilterns. This is a lovely place for an autumn walk – look out for rutting stags.

Family friendly walks

Further north at Moor Monkton, Yorkshire you can discover a quiet, quaint village near bustling York. Down by the river, the fresh scent of crystal clear air and trees will make you just want to stop and sniff. The grass is lush, and perfect for families to enjoy a relaxing peaceful walk. You can get three nights for price of two on a place to stay by clicking here.

Thinking of visiting the Lake District this autumn? Cat Bells, above Keswick - Wainright’s "family friendly" climb - offers beautiful views across russet coloured hillsides.

Also in the North West, Alderley Edge offers wonderful mixed woods with views across the Cheshire plain to the Peaks. The autumn colours are lovely and there are lots of little paths - great for exploring. The magic of the wizard, as well as interesting old mines make this a great day out for both kids and adults.

Parks, beaches and castles

Do your kids enjoy castles? Take them to Windsor Great Park. The view from the top of the long walk by the copper horse is recommended. Sweeping below you’ll see an avenue of trees with Windsor Castle (www.windsor.gov.uk) standing at the end. On most days, the deer can be seen grazing amongst the golden trees. We have a special offer on nearby accommodation if you need a place to stay nearby.

Perhaps they prefer sand castles. At Wells Next The Sea, the beautiful pine woods and long empty beaches are beautiful to walk along and through. The woods are home for a variety of birds and grandparents will enjoy walks along easy routes. There are some lovely places to eat, many serving some great local produce.

The sandy Bournemouth beach is ideal for walking. There are lots of places to eat. The town is decorated with many tidy trees. This is an ideal place to relax and very scenic - if you want to get lost in a town then this the town to get lost at. Need somewhere to stay? You can get three nights accommodation for price of two by clicking here.

Wildlife

Back into the countryside, on the Cotswold Way, the site of the original English 'Olympiks' you’ll find marvellous views over the Vale of Evesham and beyond at Dover's Hill. Look out for badgers, squirrels and birds preparing for the onset of winter.

At Minsmere, Suffolk there are some lovely walks round the mere, or to the beach, where you can watch the birds and take a break in the cafe and shop.

An oasis in the city

Finally, for some city colour, head for Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham. When all the trees in the park start to change colour in autumn it is truly breathtaking. The park is an oasis in the middle of a busy vibrant city. Take the kids, wear your wellies, and kick your feet through the leaves.