As autumn approaches, don’t miss the opportunity to head outside to soak up the changing of seasons. With summer officially over, you’ll need to pack up your outdoor furniture and teak dining chairs, and you might be looking for new ways to enjoy the great outdoors. If you’re looking for inspiration for autumn days out, throughout the UK there are over 200 National Trust parks to choose from, which are typically found in extremely beautiful and historically significant locations.

Ambleside

At the heart of the Lake District, Ambleside is perfect for families looking for adventure. There are several walking trails from Ambleside which will take you for a scenic walk through the forest, or you could take a more challenging hike through the countryside to gain views across the impressive Lake Windermere. In the summer months, this National Trust park is bustling but in autumn you’ll have more space to breathe and soak in the scenery.

Ashridge Estate

The rolling countryside and meadows of the Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire make it the perfect place to escape for a weekend walk. You can explore on foot, by bike or even by horse and there are plenty of fun-packed activities for children to get involved with. Deer are a key part of the landscape at this National Trust park, so it’s highly likely that you’ll spot a herd of the stunning animals up close.

Bodnant Garden

This garden is world-famous, with botanical collections from around the world. There are 80 acres of garden landscape to explore, don’t miss the Bird’s Eye walking trail which will take you up the hillside of Furnace Wood for stunning views across Conwy. The attention to detail in planting means that Bodnant Garden is beautiful all year round. Don’t worry, even if formal gardens aren’t your cup of tea there’s lots of things to do and plenty to keep children occupied, including creative half term activities.

Clandon Park

Here you’ll find a fascinating mix of old and new. The National Trust recently decided to restore the 18th-century mansion at the heart of Clandon Park following a devastating fire, so at the moment only parts of the house are viewable as progress is made to restore it to its former glory. The surrounding garden is still open and makes a great place to spend the day flying a kite, riding a bike and simply enjoying being outside.

Clumber Park

Found in the countryside of Nottinghamshire, Clumber Park is stunning in the autumn-time. There are expansive forests to be explored, as well as parkland and heath covering over 3,800 acres in total. At the centre of Clumber Park visitors will find a huge lake and the wide array of different landscapes means that there is lots of British wildlife to be spotted. In the past, the park used to be home to a huge country house belonging to the Dukes of Newcastle. It has been demolished but remains of the park’s grand history can be explored, including the Gothic-style chapel and Walled Kitchen Garden. Seasonal events take place throughout the year, from spooky Halloween walks to festive Christmas parties so there is always something to do.