Dreamy days out amongst the beautiful Autumn colours in 2024

As autumn begins, forests, parks, and gardens transform into shades of vibrant red, orange, and gold, creating a breathtaking autumn palette. 

With a Free Spirit Campervan, you can immerse yourself in this stunning scenery, by exploring some of the best locations to view the glory of autumn colours.

In this guide, here are some recommendations for places to visit in your Free Spirit Campervan to enjoy the spectacular seasonal colours.

Sheffield Park and Garden – East Sussex

In the heart of Sussex, Sheffield Park and Garden is renowned for its stunning autumn colours. This National Trust property boasts an array of trees that explode into an incredible display of autumn colours. 

Parking your Free Spirit Campervan nearby allows you to be leisurely. Wander along the trails that meander around four lakes, reflecting the fiery foliage, set up a cosy picnic and enjoy the crisp autumn air, or take a stroll through the landscaped gardens. 

Don’t miss the Japanese maples – their vivid red leaves are a highlight of Sheffield Park’s autumn colours.

Glen Affric – Scotland’s Autumnal Wonderland

For those seeking a more rugged adventure, Glen Affric in Scotland offers a dramatic display of autumn colours against a backdrop of majestic mountains and tranquil lochs. 

Often described as one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, Glen Affric’s ancient Caledonian pine forest turns a golden yellow in the autumn, interspersed with russet and crimson from birch and rowan trees.

Travelling here in a Free Spirit Campervan means you can explore this remote area at your leisure, waking up to misty mornings with the glen’s vivid autumn colours all around. Hike along the River Affric for some of the best viewpoints – the reflections of the foliage in the water are simply breathtaking.

Forest of Dean – An Enchanted Forest in Gloucestershire

Bordering England and Wales, the Forest of Dean is a great destination to witness autumn colours. 

Drive through the winding roads in your Free Spirit campervan, and enjoy this ancient woodland, filled with towering oaks and beech trees, dazzling with shades of gold, copper, and crimson. 

Park your campervan at a designated spot and venture out on foot or by bike along trails like the Sculpture Trail or the Wye Valley Walk. Discover hidden sculptures amongst the foliage, or follow the River Wye as it meanders through the forest. Symonds Yat Rock provides a fantastic viewpoint to admire the Autumn colours across the valley. 

After a day of exploration, return to your campervan and relax in the cosy warmth, surrounded by soft autumn colours.

Epping Forest, Essex – A Woodland Wonderland Near the Capital

Just a short drive from London, Epping Forest in Essex is a sprawling ancient woodland that comes alive with Autumn colours each year. Covering nearly 6,000 acres, the forest offers a rich variety of landscapes, from dense woodlands to open grasslands and tranquil ponds, making it a lovely destination for a day out in your Free Spirit campervan.

Park your campervan at one of the forest’s many access points and set off on foot or by bike along the well-marked trails. Popular routes include the Oak Trail and the Loughton Brook Trail. There are plenty of picnic spots or enjoy a tasty lunch back at your campervan.

Castle Howard – A Grand Estate in North Yorkshire

Castle Howard in North Yorkshire is a magnificent stately home, surrounded by extensive gardens and parklands.

Travelling here in your Free Spirit campervan allows you to fully appreciate the estate’s beauty at your own pace. 

Take a leisurely stroll around the ornamental lakes, visit the walled garden, and explore the numerous trails that wind through the grounds. The Temple of the Four Winds and the Mausoleum provide unique vantage points to admire the autumnal landscape.

Snowdonia National Park – Majestic Mountains in Wales

Snowdonia National Park in Wales is a breathtaking destination for those seeking dramatic autumn colours. Trees like birch, oak, and rowan display brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a contrast against a backdrop of the rugged mountains.

Arrive in your Free Spirit campervan and take advantage of the park’s numerous campsites, many of which offer easy access to hiking trails and scenic drives. Routes like the Snowdon Llanberis Path or the scenic drive through Nant Gwynant Valley provide views of the autumn colours.

Brecon Beacons – Vibrant Valleys and Golden Hills in Wales

The Brecon Beacons in Wales are perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity. 

Places like the Usk Valley and the areas around Llyn y Fan Fach are particularly renowned for their vibrant autumn hues.

With a Free Spirit campervan, you can park close to some of the most scenic spots, giving you easy access to breathtaking hiking trails and viewpoints. Whether you’re trekking up Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, or exploring the region’s numerous lakes and reservoirs, you’ll be surrounded by the mesmerising autumn colours. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to stargaze at night – the Brecon Beacons is an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Kew Gardens, London – Botanical Beauty in Autumn

Kew Gardens, located in southwest London, is a world-renowned botanical garden that showcases an array of plants and trees, making it a top destination for Autumn colours. 

Visiting Kew Gardens with your Free Spirit Campervan provides the convenience of parking nearby and the flexibility to explore the garden at your own pace. Wander through the Arboretum, and view the autumn colours from above from The Treetop Walkway. 

Tips and Planning Your Autumn Colours Adventure with Free Spirit Campervans

Check Peak Foliage Times: 

Autumn colours peak at different times across the UK. Research the best times for each location to catch the most vibrant displays.

Pack Warm Clothing:

 Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so pack clothing to cover all types of weather!

Plan Your Stops: 

Having a rough itinerary helps you make the most of your trip. However, stay flexible to fully enjoy the spontaneity that campervan travel offers.

Book Campsites Early: 

Popular locations can fill up quickly in autumn, so it’s wise to book your spots in advance.

The Joy of Chasing Autumn Colours with a Free Spirit Campervan

Each of these locations provides a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of autumn colours in the UK.

With Free Spirit Campervans, you have the perfect mobile base to explore the UK’s most picturesque autumnal spots, the freedom to roam at your own pace, the comfort of having all your essentials on hand, and the ability to park right in the heart of nature.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on a Free Spirit Campervan journey to witness the glorious Autumn colours of 2024!