10 Best Parks to visit in Autumn

Don’t let a bit of wind and rain keep your kids indoors. The UK is brimming with beautiful parks where your kids can experience the glorious scenes and sensations of autumn.

Roundhay Park, Leeds

This colossal park is one of Europe’s biggest city parks. Complete with two lakes, two playgrounds, acres of woodland and huge swathes of grassland, it’s perfect for autumn walks. 

There are several kids’ adventure trails through the woods. They can build dens and seek out the little elf houses hidden in the groves.

Here, you’ll also find Tropical World. The Butterfly House is a highlight, alongside its cracking collection of exotic creatures. 

Sefton Park, Liverpool

Liverpool may not be known for its natural beauty, but there’s no denying the splendour of this historic park. It’s home to a wide range of deciduous trees, and when the leaves change you’ll see a dazzling display of autumn colours. 

Your kids might even meet Peter Pan. Although he’s just a statue, they’ll think they’ve entered Neverland for real when they see the magical waterfalls of the Fairy Glen. 

And be sure not to miss the unique Palm House, a majestic Victorian greenhouse home to hundreds of exotic trees. 

Holyrood Park, Edinburgh

Many in Edinburgh claim it boasts the finest city park anywhere in the world, and they certainly have a strong case. This enormous park lies just a mile from the centre, and its centrepiece is the breathtaking Arthur’s Seat. Ensure your kids wear their walking boots as it’s a fair old climb to the top. 

Should they make the ascent, their effort will be rewarded many times over. On one side, they’ll see right across the Firth of Forth. On the other, they can peer down at the park’s trees displaying their autumn colours. And beyond that, the entire city. An incomparable experience. 

Regent’s Park, London

This haven of tranquillity is another one with an unforgettable view. Take a stroll up Primrose Hill and the kids will be amazed by the array of autumn hues as they look across the treetops. And the views of London’s skyline aren’t bad either. 

There’s loads more to do. Why not take a pedal boat across the lake and see the abundance of aquatic birds up close. The park is also famous for its several rose gardens, which remain in bloom into the autumn.

Bute Park, Cardiff

Over the border and into Wales, this immaculate park has everything for a memorable autumn day out. Overlooked by Cardiff Castle and nestled between the lovely River Taff and the Dock Feeder canal, the park hosts wildlife such as bats, herons and even otters. 

The park is long and narrow, with large fields surrounded by beautiful ancient woodland. And with several trails - Story, Wildlife Activity, Woodland Play, and more - your kids will have plenty to keep them busy. 

Brockwell Park, London

Less heralded but no less fantastic, this community-focussed park has something for everyone. BMX tracks, sports facilities and epic playgrounds will provide plenty of thrills for your sporty kids. 

But there’s also plenty of natural beauty and wildlife on show around the ponds and meadows of this gem of a park. Will your kids dare take a dip in the chilly waters of the lido, open all year round?

Heaton Park, Manchester

Perched upon a hill in this expansive park is a quaint bell tower. While the architecture may not wow your kids, the views from the hilltop certainly will. And there’s plenty more to see and do. 

Take a tram ride around the park, take in the views from a boat on the lake, or even visit the animals at the farm centre, which is free to enter. Of course, they could simply burn some energy in the several adventure playgrounds.

Brandon Hill Park, Bristol

The grassy knolls and shady groves are perfect for hide and seek in this hilly park. Clambering to the summit will certainly require some effort from your kids, but the views across the city are worth it. And for an even more spectacular view, they can climb the steep, winding steps of the Cabot Tower, a stunning 100ft monument made of red sandstone, free of charge. 

Also, the small meadow and pond provide great opportunities to spot wildflowers and animals. 

Greenwich Park, London

It has all you’d expect from a royal park - majestic scenery, splendid architecture, and lots of deer. It also offers breathtaking views of London and the Thames from upon its hills.

But best of all, every October the park’s ancient sweet chestnut trees drop their bounty onto the grass ready to be collected, roasted and eaten!

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham

Whilst it’s not the largest park, it certainly packs in plenty of fun for your kids. In amongst the gorgeous woodland, meadows and picturesque lake, they’ll find two playgrounds and plenty of space to run about. 

And if you visit on a weekend, watch their eyes light up - the funfair and epic crazy golf course are open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout autumn. 

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash