Best walks in Oxfordshire to enjoy this Autumn season

Sunglasses and ice cream have been swapped out for beanie hats and pumpkin spice lattes meaning we have left the long summery nights well and truly behind. 

As the nights start to draw in, we can also start to enjoy the leaves changing colour and take in some of the best countryside walks that Oxfordshire has to offer.

Here is a list of just some of those routes that should help you get out exploring what is on your doorstep.

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Best walks in Oxfordshire to enjoy this Autumn 

Blenheim Palace

Lose yourself in the grandeur of Blenheim Palace before venturing outside for another adventure entirely.

If you're looking for a more peaceful escape, there are 2000 acres of picturesque parkland and formal gardens to explore.

There are various walking routes suggested on the Blenheim Palace website from the Formal Gardens and the Lake to the Queen Pool and Park Perimeter.

Learn more about the Palace and its walks via the Blenheim Palace website.

Warburg Nature Reserve

The Warburg Nature Reserve is one of Oxfordshire's favourite secrets, hidden away in the Chiltern hills. 

Just four miles north of Henley-upon-Thames, you'll find a home to thousands of species of animals and flora and fauna.

It is a tranquil spot to enjoy the autumn colours away from the crowds.

And it's a lovely walk all year round since it is well known for its orchids during the Summer.

We recommend coming prepared- wellies and flasks and all because there is no cafe at the Reserve.

If you're looking for somewhere to get off the grid and throw away your phone for an afternoon then this is it.

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Harcourt Arboretum

Harcourt Arboretum never fails to deliver no matter time of year it is. 

And let's just say if you love trees in Autumn then look no further. 

Some of the oldest redwoods in the UK are here and it is only a 20-minute drive from the Oxford Botanic garden.

You are free to explore the stunning grounds or get involved in their Autumn fair which has English folk music, craft stalls and some great local produce on offer. 

You can purchase a ticket or annual pass from their website. 

Since they have limited parking, they recommend that you book a time slot on their website too.

Grey's Court Estate

Wander through 3km of farmland and beech woods for the ultimate tour of this season's highlights.

Walkers should be advised that the paths are a little uneven and may be muddy depending on the weather. 

You should also keep your dogs under close control on this walk since it is likely that you will come across different types of wildlife and farm animals along the way.

For more information about the route, visit the National Trust website.

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White Horse Hill to Ashdown

Enjoy the Autumn colours as you walk the Ridgeway from White Horse Hill to Ashdown. 

Fair warning, this is 'bit more of a workout more than a wander' but if you're up for a challenge it is well worth it. 

If you start at White Horse Hill, you'll get to see some breathtaking views along a historic part of the 87-mile long ridgeway. 

We recommend taking a look at the beech trees at Wayland’s Smithy which is just a mile and half away from the White Horse Hill car park. 

When does Autumn 2022 start? What is the Autumn Equinox?

Autumn occurs when we reach the autumn equinox.

The autumn equinox occurs in September every year, and it is the mark of summer ending in the northern hemisphere.

As the earth orbits the sun, it is tilted on an axis which means that as it orbits it illuminates the northern or southern hemisphere differently, depending on where it is in orbit.

However, at two points in the year, the sun will illuminate both hemispheres equally – these are the autumn and spring equinoxes.

In 2022, the UK Autumn equinox occurs on Friday, September 23 at 2:03am, signalling the end of summer and the start of a new season.

Find out more about this year's Autumn Equinox.