Thursday, November 22, 2012

5 Of the Best British Getaways to Try This Autumn

The British springtime is often so full of promise, but in truth the British summertime is all too often a complete disappointment. However, there is one season that a chill in the air cannot ruin and that is the great British autumn. It doesn't seem to matter how much it rained in the spring or how appallingly cold it was all summer long, when the trees turn those magnificent shades of red and gold, all is well with the world again.

Wrap up
A break in the UK during the autumn can really be fantastic. There is no hope or expectation for beach weather, just don a few extra layers, a hat, a scarf and some boots or Wellies and get out and enjoy.

The Gower Peninsula in South Wales was the first place in Britain to be designated an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' and it only takes a glimpse see why. The beaches are great in the summer, but a seaside walk is just as enjoyable in the autumn you'll just need more clothing! You will find an abundance of wildlife, ancient castles and churches, eponymous Welsh hills and valleys as well as dunes, marshes and caves. This is a real autumnal adventure and offers some brilliant fun family days out.

Cornwall is of course a popular British summer holiday destination, but it is arguably even better out of season. The Falmouth Oyster Festival, which takes place every autumn, is a great attraction for lovers of sea food. There are also some fabulous coastal walks during which you can enjoy all this amazing season has to offer. Falmouth is also home to the Cornish National Maritime Museum, which is worthy of a look.

Colours
The New Forest really comes into its own at this time of year. The colours are extraordinary and there is so much to see and do in the forest. You will find a good number of Forestry Commission car parks dotted around the place, so why not park up, wrap up a little and take a stroll through the forest. There is plenty of wildlife, including ponies (obviously) but you may also see deer, wild pigs and some fantastic birds of prey. There are plenty of forest towns when you want to get back to civilisation, including Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Burley. Bournemouth and Southampton are also nearby.

Wildlife
Located in the east of The Highlands, The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK. It is stunning any time of year, but in the autumn it is breathtaking. This is the break for you if you like wildlife. The Cairngorms National Park offers a home to around a quarter of the UK's endangered plant, animals and bird species. So, if you want to catch a glimpse of something rare, this is the place to come.

The Isle of Man annual Autumn Walking Festival is one for the ramblers. It is open to everyone and there are walks that will suit all levels of experience and fitness. If you are new to the idea try one of the less challenging walks. There is also an excellent choice of landscapes, including woodland, rivers, hills and coastline.

Autumn really is a magical time and if you can't get away, head down to your local park or look for your nearest arboretum and enjoy an hour or so kicking through the leaves. 

This guest post has been written by British blogger Zoe on behalf of Knowsley Safari Experience .

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