We know it’s only natural that you want to stay cosy indoors in winter. But there’s a world of wonders to enjoy in the English countryside at this time of year. So grab a hat and a scarf and let Blue Badge Tour Guide, Maxine Ford, take you on a tour…
It’s hard to say what my favourite landscape is in the South East – we have so much variety - but autumn and winter is without doubt my favourite time to explore the countryside in this wonderful part of the world.
The area is blessed with many designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and they’re especially stunning when crowned with autumn leaves or snow. Also, as many stately homes are closed at this time of year, nature takes centre stage for sightseers. For starters, autumn and winter are the best seasons to go deer spotting. One of the best-kept secrets of the South East, Ashdown Forest in Sussex, is home to a unique environment of heath and woodland with free roaming deer...
The New Forest in Hampshire also has deer – up to 6,500 live in the forest, and these elusive creatures look particularly picturesque in the ancient woodlands in autumn. The South Downs National Park runs through parts of Sussex and Hampshire and everyone loves to visit the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters just outside Eastbourne – at this time of year, the cliffs are much more tranquil and you’ll feel like you have them all to yourself.
Stop anywhere in the South Downs and it’s hard not to find an amazing view – almost a quarter of the area is covered with woodland and half of that has been there for 400 years. This truly is the time to explore it at its most beautiful, while trying to spot the scarlet flash of a robin in a tree or the crimson dots of holly berries.
Like the South Downs, the Dunstable Downs (part of the Chiltern Hills) are also chalky escarpments – at their highest point they reach 797ft and offer far reaching views. This area is very popular with both gliders and kite fliers, so why not pack a flask and visit with a kite on a blustery autumn day? There’s so much natural beauty to enjoy in autumn and winter in the South East, so take time to appreciate it - just be sure to wrap up warm in your winter woollies…
Want more tips? Visit: www.tourguidessoutheast.co.uk or e-mail Maxine@tourguidessoutheast.co.uk, or ask at Reception about local sights and walking routes.