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🍂 POST UPDATED OCTOBER 2023 🍂
If, like me, leaf peeping has never been something you have heard of, let alone taken part in, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Leaf peeping has always been a huge tradition in America, but what makes this a hobby we should take under our wing in the UK? Well leaf peeping is simply taking notice of the changing seasons by immersing yourself in nature and this is something we can all benefit from.
Here’s our handy guide to finding the best stops around Brighton in order to take in the changing season so wrap up and get out there to see the changing season.
Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens
The 240-acre Grade I listed gardens feature an outstanding scenery throughout the year but are particularly majestic as they take on the glorious colours of autumn. For a perfect day out, make sure you visit: the renowned Rock Garden, The Dolls’ House Museum and the rare colony of adorable wallabies.
Wakehurst
One of the top places to get your tree fix is Wakehurst, a 500-acre botanic garden managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. Wakehurst offers the perfect escape, it sits in an area of outstanding Beauty on the high weald and boasts an array of exotic trees and plants, perfect to be surrounded by vibrant Autumnal colours.
Borde Hill Garden
Borde Hill Garden is another idyllic spot just outside of Brighton, with a wide range of beautiful displays throughout the year, the garden is perfect to escape to. Autumn transforms the colours of the many mature and award-winning trees in the Grade II* listed landscape. The Garden is dotted with seating and areas where you can simply sit in peaceful contemplation and let the world pass by and take in the beauty - ah bliss.
Stanmer Park
Our next recommendation is around Stanmer Park, the largest park in Brighton with its beautiful woodland walks and extensive open lands, Stanmer Park is just as perfect for a family picnic as it is for a kick about with your friends or those looking for a bracing walk over the Downs. During Autumn the park comes alive with a burst of colour, with some stunning views, and different routes for abilities, this is a great spot to see the leaves change. Don't forget if you need any refreshments after your woodland trail then One Garden serves a great selection of local drinks and dishes.
South Downs National Park
Another top leaf peeping spot is the South Downs National Park, with rolling heathland and beautiful forested areas, this is the place to come if you want to fully immerse yourself in the Autumn colours. There is no better place to be on a chilly Autumn day than walking along one of their many routes, the park itself is vast so we recommend doing some research and choosing one of the handy itineraries they have on their website.
Brighton & Hove Parks
If you don’t drive or prefer a shorter leaf peeping session, Brighton is blessed with many beautiful parks, Hove Park, St Ann’s Wells and Preston Park are all good spots to see the changing colours and take notice of nature unfolding around you. These parks are also perfect if you have children with you as they all have play parks to help keep everyone occupied.
Devil's Dyke
One of the best views around Brighton is from the top of Devil’s Dyke, a popular beauty spot, with panoramic views of the Sussex countryside thanks to a 100m deep valley you can see for miles around, perfect for taking in the sea of autumn colours in the surrounding trees and scenery. It’s also a legendary place for viewing sunsets so we recommend timing your trip just right!
Seven Sisters
If you prefer a mix of coast and countryside, then the Seven Sisters is a great viewpoint for appreciating Autumnal colours. With a choice of routes to take advantage of you will feel fully immersed in nature after a stroll at the Seven Sisters Country park.
⇒ All of these suggestions are easily accessible via public transport, go to the Brighton & Hove Buses website for details of routes and times.
⇒ We hope you make the most of the weather when it is dry and get out and explore Brighton’s beautiful countryside to see the majestic autumn colours, please just remember to #RespectProtectEnjoy.
Caroline
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