Still hopeful that it’s not too late to see some late summer sun this September, there’s no denying it though, the days are drawing in and before we know it Autumn will be truly upon us!

Interestingly, officially, by the meteorological calendar, the first day of Autumn is always 1 September and ends on 30 November, but generally speaking the Autumn equinox falls around 22/23 September, as defined by the Earth’s orbit around the Sun.

The time of year that English poet, John Keats, describes as ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’, it’s the perfect time to put on your walking boots and enjoy the spectacular countryside.

For those bird-watchers amongst us, there’s plenty to see as millions of migrating birds head for UK shores making this their winter holiday destination.  Here are a few suggestions for walks this autumn:-

Brownsea, Dorset

Brownsea Island has a wide array of interesting habitats for the wildlife enthusiast and at a mile long and just under a mile wide, you can easily enjoy a stroll through  woodland or along the beach with views from the far end of the island stretching across to the Purbecks on the left and to the coastal town of Poole to the right, known as having one of the biggest natural harbours in the world. It’s the season to spot red squirrels as they gather nuts such as beech, sweet chestnut and hazelnut, so take time out to escape from the busyness of the mainland this Autumn.

Speke Hall, Liverpool, Merseyside

It’s a fantastic time of year to explore the estate of Speke Hall, a stunning Tudor manor house situated in Speke, Liverpool. Walk through ancient woodlands in their colourful autumnal splendour, watch out for migrant birds on the Merseyside coast and savour spectacular views over the Wirral, North Wales.

Blakeney National Nature Reserve, Norfolk

Head to Blakeney Point, a 4 mile spit of flint-derived shingle and sand dunes, to take in the views of this beautiful coastline. Look out for flocks of golden plover as well as wigeon and dark brent geese on the grazing marshes and reed beds. There is a walking trail that takes visitors through Blakeney Village and around Blakeney Freshes – fantastic for spotting wildlife.

Flatford, Suffolk

Flatford is located on the River Stour on the Essex/Suffolk border and is probably best known as the backdrop for some of John Constable’s most famous paintings such as The Hay Wain and the Mill Stream. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the river in ‘Constable country’.

We hope this has inspired you to get out there, there’s so much to see and do!

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