As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the National Trust is inviting everyone to experience the magic of autumn with its handpicked walking trails.
From gentle woodland strolls to invigorating countryside rambles, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire offers a spectacular backdrop for every kind of walker. With nature’s colour palette on full display, this is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors.
The National Trust, renowned for caring for some of the UK’s most treasured landscapes, is encouraging visitors to embrace the season and reconnect with nature. Whether it’s a misty morning walk through ancient woodlands, an afternoon spotting fungi and wildlife, or a golden-hour wander along fruit-laden hedgerows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
To celebrate the season, the conservation charity has curated a list of the top trails and scenic spots in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire where autumn truly comes alive. These walks are ideal for families, friends, or solo explorers looking to soak up the sights, sounds, and scents of the season.
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 2LS
The spectacular sights and sounds of the autumn deer rut are not to be missed at Belton Estate. Guided walks, led by one of Belton’s rangers, are a great way to make the most of this remarkable display of nature and will be running on dates throughout October. Some will also focus on capturing these amazing scenes in photographs with the guidance of professional photographer and volunteer ranger Jon Pear.
Other guided walk highlights include monthly dog walks, an Influential Women of Belton walk around the gardens, and a special Act of Remembrance Walk on Sunday 8 November taking in some of the fascinating military history of the area.
For self-led walks, visitors can enjoy spotting photogenic fungi in the grassy areas of the parkland as well as in Old Wood and around the lakes, as well as spotting fieldfares and redwings, and signs of water voles and otters.
Guided walks are free but can be booked online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/belton
Clumber Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 3BE
Every autumn, Clumber Park puts on one of Nottinghamshire’s greatest natural
spectacles. With the crunching of leaves underfoot, the vibrant colours of the trees, pumpkins and gourds in the garden, and the fascinating displays of fungi through the woodland, autumn is an incredibly special time in the park.
There is 3,800 acres of parkland and more than 20 miles of trails to discover so walks can range from a quick stretch of the legs to a long exploration of the different landscapes and habitats.
The circular lakeside walk is the most popular visitor route and looks especially stunning on a bright autumn day with reflections of the seasonal colours in the water. Keen photographers are advised to keep a look out for wildlife, particularly birds and waterfowl, and deer in quieter parts of the park.
Clumber Park also offers a variety of regular guided walks to support physical and mental wellbeing. Full details can be found on the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
Sandilands, Roman Bank, Sandilands nr Sutton-on-Sea, Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire, LN12 2RJ
Autumn is one of the best times to visit the National Trust’s Sandilands Nature Reserve, as the wetlands and coastal habitats come alive with migrating birds using the East Atlantic Flyway as a vital stopover on their journey south.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks through the reserve, take in the rich autumn colours across the landscape, and spot a variety of wildlife, including waders and waterfowl.
With crisp sea air, open skies, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the summer crowds, Sandilands offers a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the coast in a new season.
The reserve sits beside the sandy coastline, offering various routes through the reserve which can be explored on foot or via the Tramper buggies which offer an accessible alternative for visitors with accessibility needs.
Sandilands offers free weekly wellness walks every Monday at 10am – 12 noon, which gives visitors the opportunity to explore the reserve at their own pace with the company of our friendly volunteer walk leaders.
Information on opening times and events can be found on the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sandilands
Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens, Gunby, Spilsby, Lincolnshire, PE23 5SS
With 1,500 acres of unspoilt countryside and eight acres of beautifully maintained Victorian walled gardens, Gunby Estate and Gardens offers plenty to explore this autumn.
Follow winding paths through the estate and immerse yourself in the rich seasonal colours of the Lincolnshire Wolds. With three walking routes of varying lengths, there is something to suit every visitor.
The shortest trail, taking around 30 minutes, guides visitors through the historic grounds surrounding the house, past the remains of the medieval village of ‘Gunnebi’ and into the woodland, where the secluded Ice House Pond awaits.
For those looking to venture further, a four-mile walk explores Gunby’s parkland and surrounding countryside, leading to the nearby village of Bratoft. Along the way, discover the medieval moated manor site, once home to the Massingberd family of Gunby.
The longest route, spanning six miles, takes visitors to Monksthorpe Chapel. Built in the 18th century to resemble a barn, this fascinating chapel offers a unique insight into the area’s religious history and the efforts made to avoid persecution.
Back in the gardens, autumn’s arrival brings a spectacular display of colour. Wander among vibrant borders, admire the seasonal harvest in the vegetable garden and orchard, and enjoy the final fragrant blooms of the year as the gardens transition into a new season.
Tattershall Castle, Sleaford Road, Tattershall, Lincolnshire, LN4 4LR
Autumn is the perfect time to explore the grounds of Tattershall Castle, with crisp air, golden foliage and far-reaching views across the Lincolnshire landscape.
Tattershall Castle’s Archaeology Walk takes visitors beyond the castle walls to uncover hidden traces of the site’s rich past, revealing fascinating archaeological features and stories that have shaped the area over centuries. As the countryside turns to shades of amber and gold, this gentle walk offers a unique opportunity to combine history, wildlife and seasonal beauty in one memorable outing.
Image credit: Clumber Park by Steve Bradley
Posted on 10 September 2026
