THESE are some of the best autumn walks and trails at historic National Trust properties in Worcestershire and Herefordshire where visitors can make the most of the season. 

To celebrate the season and inspire days out, the National Trust has picked out the top places and pathways for the best autumnal walks in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

WALKS: Croome has many paths to enjoy the autumn season (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

 

Worcestershire Walks

  • Croome: the estate lies at centre of "Capability" Brown's first landscaped garden and offers an accessible circular walk where you can discover the icehouse, bird hide and the beautiful lakeside.  There are also a series of add on walks this Autumn to discover more about Croome's RAF history and 'a wonderful 5-mile walk guided hike to one of Croome's eyecatchers - the Panorama Tower'.   
  • Hanbury Hall: known for its 'historic parkland', the estate has lime, oak and elm trees to capture the variety of the 'vibrant' autumn colours. A National Trust spokesperson said: "Enjoy routes that lead you through the remains of an ancient forest, past impressive early eighteenth-century design features including the Semi-Circle, Long Walk and Lime Tree Walk. Dogs on leads are welcome in the parkland."

 

BEAUTIFUL: Brockhampton in Herefordshire BEAUTIFUL: Brockhampton in Herefordshire (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)

Herefordshire walks

  • Brockhampton: the estate is known for stunning valley views and parkland, the accessible orchard walk or the woodland walk. A National Trust spokesperson said: "In the orchards, old and new fruit trees are laden with apples and damsons, and autumn leaves dust the landscape. The parkland, woodland and Herefordshire views walks offer a peaceful retreat where you can soak up the atmosphere of trees at their autumnal best." Autumn events include mushroom month and apple day in October and Hallowtide celebrations from October 26 to November 2, featuring medieval traditions, seasonal decorations, and fun activities for all ages.
  • Croft Castle: Autumn walks at Croft Castle and Parkland. A National Trust spokesperson said the parkland was 'surrounded by the most magnificent ancient trees' and that it offered 'an unforgettable seasonal experience'. The estate features a variety of trails across woodland, parkland, the ‘Picturesque’ Fishpool Valley, and Croft Ambrey Iron Age hillfort. A National Trust spokesperson said: "Don’t miss the Ghost Trees walk, a unique journey through time and art that highlights the stories of veteran, dead, and dying trees. This walk features collaborative artworks and poetry inspired by these ancient trees. After your walk, warm up with a hot drink at the Carpenter’s tea-room or step back in time inside the castle for a warm escape as you soak up its history."
  • Berrington Hall: The estate was designed by renowned 18th-century landscape architect ‘Capability’ Brown. A National Trust spokesperson said: "The parkland looks magnificent as the season changes, with richly coloured trees brightening the open spaces and reflecting in the beautiful lake." The estate also features a walled garden for 'an interesting walk among heritage apple and pear varieties in the orchard, featuring several Herefordshire and Worcestershire varieties, and some that can be traced back to the Georgian period'. You can pick your own (donations for this experience are welcome). Visitors can enjoy a hot drink in the Old Servants’ Hall tea-room, or head to the house 'to soak up the jewel-like interiors in the warming atmosphere of the mansion'.
  • The Weir Garden The Weir Garden. The estate is is close to the River Wye. The garden’s winding paths lead you through a variety of landscapes, including ancient trees, a rockery, boat house, a historic walled garden and restored glasshouse.