Autumn is the wonderful season that transitions us here in the UK from summer to winter. Meteorologically, autumn starts on 1 September and ends on 30 November (astronomical autumn starts on the autumn equinox around 21-22 September).
We often get asked if autumn is a good time for hiking in South West England. Our answer is always a resounding yes! The countryside is stunning, the summer crowds have gone and the days (in September and October) are still warm. Shorter days, cooler evenings and cosy country inns beckoning with glowing log fires – that’s what autumn (or fall) means to us. The weather does start to get more unsettled, but with the right kit and preparations, there’s nothing to stop you enjoying glorious days of hiking at this spectacular time of year.
What can I expect from the weather?
September
September is a wonderful month for hiking. It often feels like an extension of summer. Long, warm days but without the intense heat of summer. The evenings start to draw in and cool down. Average temperatures come in at 14°C (57F) and we generally see less rain than in August. A perfect time for exploring the footpaths and trails of the South West!
October
October is the peak season for autumn colour in the South West, with woodlands looking spectacular. There is a sense of calm and quiet across the countryside and even the most popular trails become crowd free. Temperatures remain perfect for hiking with highs of 15°C (59F) and lows of 8°C (46F). The days start to get noticeably shorter, with the sun setting around 6 pm by the end of the month – the stunning sunrises and sunsets are one of the things we love most about October.
This month can be one of the wetter months of the year, so it pays to be prepared with waterproof gear. However, with the right preparations, October can be one of the best months to be hiking in South West England.
November
November signals a shift in gear as the countryside takes on a more muted colour palette. The days become noticeably shorter with the sun setting between 4 and 5 p.m. Waterproof gear becomes a must at this time of year and footpaths may become muddier, depending on rainfall. However, November can be a wonderfully atmospheric time of the year to hike.
Having lived all their lives in the South West, Alison, David & the Foot Trails team can provide expert advice on where to hike, what to pack and what to expect in the English countryside at all times of the year. We offer shorter and longer walk options for every day of your holiday and organise any transport to the start of your walks, giving you the flexibility to dynamically adapt your hikes based on the weather and how far you want to walk.
If you’d like to experience the very best of rural South West England this autumn, simply send us an email. We’d love to chat through your plans.
