Get walking this Autumn
Too many people think that as summer ends it’s time to put the walking boots in the back of the cupboard and hibernate indoors. Whilst it is nice to be curled up on a comfy sofa indoors, when the weather gets cooler, there is so much that you’d be missing out on if you did. With the draw of fabulous foliage colours and crisp blue skies, walkers in the know just keep on walking. Whether you’re a solo walker, family with young children or a more adventurous hills and dales walker some of the most fulfilling outdoor enjoyment takes place this time of year.
Take a deep breath and draw in the sights of enchanted misty mornings and glorious golden sunsets, stunning skies and seasonal wildlife highlights. We all know that walking is a great way to maintain physical fitness, but did you know it also increases our serotonin levels which helps keep a positive mood and beat the winter blues?
We are fortunate in the South East to have a treasure trove of amazing forest, woodlands and gardens to spend some time in throughout the year. Until mid-November, Scotney Castle is running guided tours of the garden included in the admission price. These run Monday to Friday at 11am and 2pm and last approximately 45 minutes.
The estate at Scotney covers seventy acres of mixed woodland, grade I listed parkland and hop gardens with marked trails. In the garden, all-weather paths meander past ancient trees, a heather-thatched icehouse and old boat house down to the 14th century castle with its moat carved from the River Bewl. A walk in this beautiful legacy landscape definitely helps to clear the head and re-charge the batteries – whatever the weather.
Whether it’s a stroll through Scotney Castle’s picturesque landscape gardens or a yomp through the woodland and across the farm estate on the Scotney parkland trail (a moderate walk, great for finding out more about the history and secrets of the estate) there is something for everyone to appreciate. Younger visitors can also enjoy helping Percy the Park Keeper in Scotney’s seasonal trail and let off steam in the two play areas.
‘When autumn arrives, the garden and estate at Scotney Castle burst into colour. The shades and textures of oranges, yellows and reds create a bright picture across the landscape.’
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scotney-castle
