Autumn leave: 20 great places to stay in the UK’s forests
Sheffield Park Garden, East Sussex
Sheffield Park Garden, near Haywards Heath, is famous for its autumn colours – former owner Arthur Soames planted it for the season, with richly hued species such as acer, nyssa and taxodium. Formerly the gardener’s residence, Welbeck Cottage has recently opened to guests, offering out-of-hours access to the estate’s 300 acres of woods and parkland. It’s a magical spot, with winding paths that lead through woods and across bridges to cascades and lakes that reflect the gold and red of the leafy landscape. Inside, the renovated cottage is warm and comfortable, with neutral colours, wooden floors and a twin and double bedroom. Beyond the estate, beautiful Ashdown forest is 15 minutes away for more leaf peeping.
Sleeps four, from £357 for three nights, nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays
Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Merely second to the New Forest in size, the Forest of Dean, an erstwhile hunting ground for the royalty, is imbued with the allure of timeless, untouched forests. At the heart of this enchanting scenery is the The Speech House Hotel, dating back to the 17th century and boasting 35 cozy rooms, including some that feature four-poster beds, and options to dine at two different eateries on-site. Nature trails through the woods begin right from the hotel's entrance and the neighboring Cyril Hart Arboretum is an easy reach. The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, which abounds in hidden artwork amidst the foliage, is also situated nearby. The local tourism authority has come up with a unique Leaf Peeping drive guide, which designates the best places to witness autumn's golden display. For wildlife enthusiasts, there's the option of signing up for a private safari with renowned "wildlife detective" Ed Drewitt for groups up to six people, at £100 for two hours or a full day for just £200.
Rates for double occupancy start from a mere £57 on a room-only arrangement, and the two-day Autumn Leaves Explorer package, inclusive of half-board stays with packed meal or cream tea for two, begins at £278. More details are available on their website at thespeechhouse.co.uk.
The Lizard, Cornwall
Built in 1840, Frenchman’s Creek is a secluded cottage surrounded by dense woods, near the Helford River estuary on the Lizard peninsula. It has been a source of literary inspiration for several former guests, not least Daphne du Maurier, who named one of her novels after the place. Later tenants were Maria Pendragon and Clara Vyvyan: the latter describes the cottage in her book The Helford River. “Often, instead of reading, I would sit gazing out of the window at that wall of trees rising to the sky and feeling the quiet of that place as if it were soft music.” The two-bedroom hideaway can be reached by boat at high tide, or by foot along a path.
Sleeps four, from £439 for three nights, landmarktrust.org.uk
National Forest, East Midlands
The ambitious National Forest, spanning a whopping 200 square miles, bills itself as the most extensive regeneration effort in the nation, driven by environmental concerns. Its resilience is admirable, rising from land once marred by the mining industry to flaunting a bounty of 9 million trees planted in just under three decades this autumn. Nestled in the quaint hamlet of Packington, Leicestershire, resides the cozy and family-friendly The Old Stables B&B. It offers two interlocked, beam-ceilinged rooms, including one fitted with bunks, and a vibrant library boasting a selection of books and games. Enjoy an exhilarating stroll along the 75-mile long National Forest Way, segmented into 12 parts, with the Beacon Hill Country Park serving as one of the key features. This recreational path crosses through the heart of the National Memorial Arboretum located in Staffordshire, showcasing the UK's vibrant, green expanses.
Prices start as low as £80 for a double room and £100 for a family room accommodating four guests, available at sawdays.co.uk.
New Forest, Hampshire
Autumn paints the New Forest in the UK with hues of gold and red, transforming it into a breath-taking sight. The rich colors are created by the aged oak, beech, and sweet chestnut trees. Animal enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that during autumn, a unique spectacle called pannage occurs, where pigs joyfully forage for acorns, enhancing the forest's pastoral charm. Nearby, you’ll find Treetops, a modern and spacious three-bedroom woodland cottage tucked on the Beaulieu River's edges.
Hosting a deck perfect for enjoying outdoor meals, and an indoor woodburner for cooler evenings, Treetops is ideally situated. With several cycle paths and forest strolls to explore right on your doorstep, there's always an adventure waiting. Enhance your stay by timing it with the New Forest Food & Drink Fortnight. Here, you can sample a range of local offerings, from pannage pork to locally brewed beer, across multiple forest venues.
Accommodation for five starts from £731 for a three-night stay, visit their website here.
Mid-Wales
Sleep in a tent up in the trees at Red Kite Tree Tents, on a private 81-acre woodland estate next to a swift running stream. Featured on George Clark’s Amazing Spaces, the globe-shaped tree tents (the Dragon’s Egg is the higher of the two) sleep two, are well-insulated, with woodburners and comfortable double beds, and are totally secluded and off-grid. Wooden walkways lead to living platforms with outdoor cooking areas and firepits. Spend the days walking through forests and valleys, or mountain biking through unspoiled hills.
Sleeps two, three nights in Dragon’s Egg from £355, holidaycottages.co.uk
Snowdonia
Nestled within rolling landscapes, the tiny hill village of Rhiwddolion is accessible solely by a 10-minute trek along a woodland path adorned with monumental flagstones and towering ancient oaks. This hidden gem plays host to three distinct holiday dwellings - the only surviving structures from a once bustling community of slate miners. These consist of two quaint cottages, Ty Uchaf and Ty Coch, as well as Ty Capel which formerly served as a chapel and schoolroom. These tantalizing retreats perch on the cusp of a forestry cloaked valley, a short distance from Betws-y-Coed, the gateway to the Snowdonia national park visitor centre. The enchanting Fairy Glen Gorge is situated nearby, a certain source of joy for young ones. Additionally, the towering Swallow Falls holds the title of the tallest waterfalls in Wales. The area also boasts an array of circular routes right on the doorstep, and endless trekking options throughout the park. It's interesting to note that the circular trails are an attraction in their own right, offering unique views and a sense of peace and tranquility that's truly unmatched. Also, the Snowdonia National Park is home to the highest mountain in England and Wales - Mount Snowdon.
At affordable prices, the cottages cater to parties of two, three, and four, starting at £259 for a three-night stay. Check availability at landmarktrust.org.uk.
North Wessex Downs, Hampshire
If you're seeking solitude and tranquility, nestled on the crossroads of Hampshire and Berkshire you will find Hollington Park Glamping. As the ideal place for family camping, this unique location boasts two rustic-style huts. The welcoming, pet-friendly site is more than just an accommodation area, becoming a diverse animal sanctuary with residents ranging from a rabbit to a magnificent great dane, all excited to interact with their human visitors. A small hamlet is not complete without Indian Runner ducks, chickens, and friendly minuscule dachshunds. Modern heated shelters provide kitchen facilities as well as electricity, ensuring a comfortable stay in the countryside. In addition to private facilities, there is a communal area for relaxation, tempting firepits, discrete showers and environmentally friendly composting toilets. The true charm of the local area resides in The Chase, a sprawling 143 acres of protected woodland that's a stone's throw away from Woolton Hill Village.
Accommodates a duo or a family of four, with prices starting at £70,hollingtonparkglamping.co.uk
Near Ennerdale Water, Lake District
Surrounded by fells, ridges and peaks, YHA Ennerdale has wow-factor views across the Lake District from most rooms. It’s a great place for walkers and cyclists, be they solo travellers or large groups. Formerly forestry cottages, the hostel is now an off-grid retreat with hydro-electric power supply and no phone signal or TV. There are private and dorm rooms in the main building, and a beautifully renovated 16th-century camping barn nearby, available for exclusive hire (from £99 a night, sleeps 13, BYO bedding).
Dorms from £15, private room for four £49, yha.org.uk
Dartmoor, Devon
Immerse yourself in a treetop retreat shaped like a colossal birdhouse, known as The Bird Box ensconced within verdant woodland. Enjoy the comfort of a cozy wood burner, a compact but fully-equipped kitchen, a stunning panorama of the forests from the bed, topped with the unique experience of a wooden hot tub on the balcony. Located a short five-minute stroll away, wilderness enthusiasts will find Dartmoor National Park offering exquisite hiking trails. The old tram route starting from the charming Okehampton village nearby provides an exceptional trip through woodlands, lush meadows and riverside trails leading to the moor — a perfect proposition for both walkers and cyclists. Notably, for the adrenaline-seekers, the traffic-free Granite Way offers an unbeatable cycling experience. Just a stone's throw away, Adventure Okehampton offers thrill-seekers an array of exciting outdoor activities such as horse riding, gorge walking, caving, kayaking, and river rafting. Those interested in an exciting woodland stay can book a three-night minimum stay, starting at £86 per night for two persons at independentcottages.co.uk.
Wye Valley, Herefordshire
If you're looking to fully immerse yourself in woodland serenity, consider making a booking at Mrs Higgs Lodge. This idyllic retreat is nestled within its very own secluded woodlands, part of an impressive 3,000-acre property situated nine miles west of Hereford. Historically noted for its establishment in 1835, the house had slowly been swallowed by the encompassing forest, its chimneys peeking through the thick tree cover, until its recent refurbishment. The quaint charm of the 19th century is kept alive in the modern restoration - electricity and online connectivity are intentionally absent, with heat provided by wood burners and water sourced from the original spring well. The bathhouse features countryside charm in a wood-clad structure. Relax in the hot tub under the tall trees, tune into the forest's symphony, and keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as deer, owls, and badgers. Make sure to explore the sprawling network of woodland trails leading into the stunning Wye Valley.
A stay at Mrs. Higgs is a digital detox, reconnecting you to nature and history amidst a technology-driven world. The lodge can accommodate up to four guests in two bedrooms. Three-night stays start at £615, perfect for a weekend getaway or a short staycation. For more information and booking details, visit qualityunearthed.co.uk.
River Nene, Cambridgeshire
Overlooking a Forestry Commission poplar plantation in the grounds of Island House, The Arc is a spacious but cosy cabin surrounded by nature. Red kites can be seen soaring around the woods, which are also home to otters, muntjacs, herons, kingfishers, badgers, swans and more. Kenneth Grahame is said to have stayed in the main house and could well have drawn inspiration for The Wind in The Willows from this peaceful corner near the River Nene. Days spent walking on the Elton-Nassington-Fotheringhay loop or at Ferry Meadows can be followed by nights in the colourful open-plan space, with its vintage furniture, packed bookshelves and games by the woodburner.
Sleeps four, three-night weekend from £450, canopyandstars.co.uk
Tamar Valley, Cornwall
Drawing from the rich tapestry of England's past in mining, Danescombe Mine, nestled close to Calstock, remained active all through the 1800s, before it was eventually deserted. It was only in the 1970s that the Landmark Trust breathed new life into this place. It now stands transformed, with the engine house having been repurposed into an environment boasting spacious rooms bathed in natural light. This unique setting comes with an elevated outdoor platform, designed to offer you panoramic vistas of the forest-clad valley, along with the serene sounds of a nearby stream flowing into the Tamar River. A leisurely stroll will take you to the National Trust's Cotehele, a marvel from the Tudor era complete with its own house and gardens. The quaint Calstock village and its viaduct lie at a similarly close distance.
Accommodates four, starting at £353 for a stay of three nights, visit landmarktrust.org.uk
Mid-Wales
Perched upon a forest ridge overlooking a verdant valley, the Treetop Cabin provides comfortable accommodation for up to three guests, nestled amongst a timeworn blend of oak, beech, ash, lime, and a towering redwood reaching 50 metres skyward. It is located where the Welsh and English territories meet, proximate to Presteigne, and generously enveloped by 25 acres of private forest and a medley of vibrant wildflower meadows. In addition to reprieve, these woods offer numerous sightings of creatures like roe deer, stoats, noctule bats, and woodpeckers. The eco-friendly structure, constructed from locally sourced wood harvested from the neighbouring valley, features an intimate terrace adorned with hammocks, a barbeque grill and firepit for pleasant nights, a wood stove that wards off the cold, and a compost toilet. The cabin arranges for shared kitchen and shower facilities through the nearbyRedwood Valley eco-camp, which also conducts interesting activities like birdwatching excursions and green woodworking workshops. Additional local attractions include pristine trails around Norton Brook, the River Lugg that's perfect for a wild swim, and the Spaceguard Centre observatory, which capitalizes on the dark-sky status of the location for fantastic stargazing opportunities.
The Treetop Cabin can be booked for two nights at £260 for three occupants via pitchup.com.
The Highlands
Nestled within the untamed beauty of Balblair Woods, amid rugged mountainous terrain, the newly established Birdwatchers’ Cabin rests by the shore of tidal Loch Fleet, completely enveloped by a nature sanctuary blanketed with lush woods. Large glass patio doors ensure visitors are always privy to the intimate encounters with surrounding scenery, offering comfort, broadband, and elegance in equal measures with spacious living and sleeping quarters, alongside a well-equipped kitchen. Traipse through trails winding through rich pine, larch, and spruce forests, sharing space with the forest's native inhabitants such as red squirrels, deer, and otters. You can engage in birdwatching too with a nearby bird hide. For a touch of pampering, breakfast baskets can be delivered straight to the doorstep upon request.
The cabin accommodates four guests (including a double and a sofa bed), starting at £160 per night,available for booking at hostunusual.com
Ashdown Forest, East Sussex
Nestled on the fringes of Ashdown Forest, a place famed as AA Milne's inspiration for the cherished tale of Winnie the Pooh, sits the unique Forest Garden glamping site. This enchanting haven, a balanced blend of antiquated woods and permaculture gardens, offers visitors a myriad of immersive activities such as beekeeping and green woodworking. The site houses a profusion of edible flora, and the dedicated team believes in "wildcrafting" - the art of sustainably harvesting flowers and fruits from their unspoilt environment, which then form part of the delightful breakfasts and lunches served at the on-site café. For a completely different experience, consider extending your trip to explore the cultural attractions and vibrant night life of Brighton city. A delightful stay within the sophisticated quarters of the Harbour Hotel Brighton is worthwhile, offering modern amenities for a convenient and comfortable stay. Back at the Forest Garden, for accommodation, they offer four timber cabins equipped with kitchens, and two yurts warmed by woodburners, all of which share a communal firepit, barbecue, and picnic space. Accommodates up to four guests, priced at £315 for a midweek two-night stay (£355 on weekends), visit forestgarden.info for more details.
Lough Erne, Co Fermanagh
There is a two-mile private woodland trail in the Finn Lough resort, and dozens more around Lough Erne and the surrounding peninsula, which can be explored on foot or by bike (available to rent) and pass by mountain lakes and castle ruins. Alternatively, hire a boat and visit its little islands, sandy bays and river inlets, or take a walk to spot wildlife, including red squirrels and badgers. Finn Lough has catered suites, cottages, lodges and transparent bubble domes, a spa with a lakeside hot tub and sauna, a tennis court and a restaurant serving fish from the lough and the nearby Donegal coast.
Suites for two from £120 B&B, finnlough.com
River Coquet, Northumberland
Nestled at the base of a dramatically sloping tree-rich valley, you'll find the historical Brinkburn Mill. This iconic setting was immortalized in JMW Turner's 1832 canvas of Brinkburn Priory, located just a stone's throw across the mill's garden wall. The mill has a history tracing back to approximately circa 1800, and was left unoccupied for five decades until restoration was kick-started by the Landmark Trust in 1990. Within one of the two bedrooms, you can still find the original mill wheel and grinding stones. The location boasts a nearby woodland walking loop alongside the tranquil River Coquet and a broad range of other scenic trails. Iconic Northumbrian castles and enthralling beaches are merely a few miles from this location.
This relaxing retreat can accommodate four guests, priced from £455 for a four-night stay, bookable on landmarktrust.org.uk.
Galloway Forest Park
Positioned on the outskirts of the UK's most expansive forest—Galloway Forest Park, Galloway Activity Centre is also remarkably near to the nation's pioneering Dark Sky Park. It caters various lodging choices that range from simple dormitory beds in the bunkhouse, quaint yurts, to petite eco-bothies complemented with hot tubs. Enrich your stay with a wide array of recreational pursuits around Loch Ken, like canoeing, windsurfing, rock climbing, and archery. To make your nights equally captivating, the centre offers guided nocturnal cycling. Mountain bikes are also available for hire if you wish to delve deeper into the park's 300-square-mile diverse terrain— a natural habitat for the local red deer.
For your convenience, dormitory beds start at £18.50, six-person yurts commencing from £93, and eco-bothies that can accommodate three people for a long weekend from £385, available at lochken.co.uk.
Yorkshire Wolds
Residing just beyond Sancton village, the North Star Club is a contemporary sanctuary encompassing 500 acres within the captivating scenery of the Yorkshire Wolds. It finds its roots in the unique concept of private wilderness retreats, famously distinguished as American Great Camps during the late 1800s. Each cabin, designed with an acute eye for detail, comfortably accommodates four to six people, decorated in a chic blend of faux fur, black steel, and upcycled timber that flawlessly meld comfort with sustainable luxury. One even boasts a copper roll-top bath and sauna for the ultimate relaxation experience. Barbecues are nestled on the terraces, and a communal "woodshed" exists; furnished with a large dining table, cushy sofas, and also offering tea and cake, with an encased campfire just outside. Perfect for unwinding after a day's adventure in the wilderness, bespoke group spa packages are available for on-site cabin pampering (starting at £20pp).
Each cabin allows four to six guests at prices beginning from £395 for a two-night stay.
In this unique setup, not only can you enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Wolds, but also engage in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, and birdwatching. In the evenings, the clear sky and tranquillity provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing. It's a marvellous place to unwind, relax and reconnect with nature. If you're seeking a serene getaway, the North Star Club is the ideal choice.