This is a post about autumn hikes near London.
This is one of my favourite posts of the year! Autumn is, in my humble opinion, one of the best times for hiking near London. It’s not AS colourful as, say, Canada, but it does have some golden hues, crisp air and crunchy orange leaves on the ground. If that’s what you’re craving + countryside views, you don’t need to go far. There are plenty of autumn hikes near London that offer golden foliage, peaceful woodland trails and even cosy pubs for a post-walk reward. All these destinations are within two hours of London by train (often less!), making them perfect for a day trip or spontaneous weekend escape.
The past couple of years autumn has been super rainy, annoyingly, but I’m holding out hope for a drier one this time! 🤞🏼
Box Hill, Surrey
One of the most popular autumn hiking spots near London, Box Hill offers panoramic views over the Surrey Hills. The Stepping Stones Walk takes you along the River Mole, through wooded areas glowing with colour, and up to the hilltop viewpoint. The mix of beech, oak and ash trees makes for a rich tapestry of autumn shades.
The cafe by the viewpoint serves delicious seasonal drinks like their gingerbread lattes during winter. I can’t remember what they do for autumn but it wouldn’t surprise me to find a pumpkin spice!
How to get there: Take a direct train from London Victoria or London Waterloo to Box Hill & Westhumble (around 50 minutes).
Epping Forest, Essex
A sprawling ancient forest on London’s northeastern edge, Epping Forest is one of the closest spots for autumn hikes. And pretty handy if you’re based East. Choose from short strolls to longer trails that pass through oak groves, open meadows and ponds. The Ambresbury Banks loop is perfect for autumn and has historical ties to Iron Age fortifications.
How to get there: Central Line to Loughton or Chingford, then walk into the forest.
Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire
Ashridge Estate is a National Trust gem known for its dramatic autumn displays. Stroll through the golden beech woods or head up to Ivinghoe Beacon for expansive views over the Chiltern Hills. Wild deer sightings are common in autumn, especially early in the morning.
How to get there: Train from London Euston to Tring (about 40 minutes), then a short taxi or bus to the estate.
Leigh-on-Sea to Benfleet, Essex
For an autumn hike with estuary views and salty air, this coastal walk is unexpectedly colourful in autumn. The trail passes through Hadleigh Castle Country Park, with rolling hills and golden grasses lit by the low autumn sun. It’s a unique alternative to forest hikes.
How to get there: Train from London Fenchurch Street to Leigh-on-Sea (around 45 minutes).
Reigate Hill and Gatton Park, Surrey
I really like this hike! And it’s a lot more beginner-friendly if you’re worried about that. This lesser-known trail through the North Downs offers woodlands, chalk grassland and scenic viewpoints. In autumn, the beech and sycamore trees light up the path. Don’t miss the Inglis Memorial and the expansive views over the Weald.
Plus, that’s another one with a wonderful cafe! Their vanilla chai is *chef’s kiss*.
How to get there: Train from London Victoria to Reigate (about 50 minutes), then walk from the station.
Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire
A peaceful ancient woodland with some of the oldest beech trees in England. Burnham Beeches is perfect for a quiet autumn escape, with well-marked trails and picnic spots. The forest has been used in films like Harry Potter and Robin Hood.
How to get there: Train from London Paddington to Slough or Burnham, then a short bus or taxi.
South Downs Way: Amberley to Arundel
For something a little longer, this South Downs section offers rolling hills, farmland and wide-open skies with splashes of orange and gold. The trail ends in Arundel, a really cute town where you can visit the castle and grab a warm drink.
How to get there: Train from London Victoria to Amberley (around 90 minutes).
Newlands Corner and Chantry Woods, Surrey
I LOVE this hike! Newlands Corner is a scenic spot along the North Downs Way with stunning views over the Surrey Hills. From here you can hike to Chantry Woods, a peaceful forest known for its ancient trees and vibrant autumn foliage. The walk is quiet, atmospheric and ideal for photography lovers. Chantry Woods is absolutely glorious in the autumn! Crunchy orange leaves carpet and everything!
You can make this hike as long as you want depending on the path you choose. For instance, you can go via St Martha’s Church for the most amazing views.
How to get there: Train to Guildford (about 40 minutes), then a local bus or taxi to Newlands Corner. OR you can walk from Guildford to Pewley Down (20 minutes) and go from there.
Devil’s Punch Bowl, Surrey
This dramatic natural amphitheatre in the Surrey Hills is especially beautiful in autumn. Trails through the bowl lead you past ancient woodland and open heath with fiery autumn colours. The view from the top is one of the best in the region.
The cafe by the entrance is super cosy with books you can borrow and reading chairs.
How to get there: Train to Haslemere (under an hour from London), then a bus or taxi to Hindhead.
Virginia Water Lake, Surrey
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! All year round! Part of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water Lake offers a flat, easy path around the lake surrounded by colourful trees. You’ll also pass waterfalls, Roman ruins and ornamental gardens. It’s one of the most family-friendly autumn walks on this list.
You can just walk around the lake which takes about 2 hours depending on the path you take. Alternatively, if you’re feeling like na adventure, you can walk all the way to the Long Walk down to Windsor Castle!
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention yet another cafe… there are different cafes and coffee huts around but the Savill Garden Kitchen has one of the best chocolate cakes I’ve ever had!
How to get there: Train to Virginia Water from London Waterloo (around 45 minutes). It’s a 30min walk from there via a straight road with beautiful houses. Or train to Egham and a bus ride.
Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey
Not sure I can consider this a hike, but it’s definitely one of the best autumn walks near London! Managed by the National Trust, Winkworth Arboretum was designed for seasonal colour. It features over 1,000 species of trees and shrubs and is a true hidden gem in autumn. Expect Japanese maples, scarlet acers and fiery dogwoods along winding woodland paths.
It’s about £14 to get in and you can just show up. Autumn, however, is so popular that you usually have to book a visit. Although I feel like last year that wasn’t necessary…I really can’t remember. I encourage you to check their website for the latest news and I’ll update this when/if they make any announcements.
How to get there: Train to Godalming (about 45 minutes), then a short taxi/bus ride.
Tips for Autumn Hiking Near London
- Always check train schedules and trail conditions before heading out
- Bring layers, waterproofs and good walking shoes – autumn weather can change quickly
- Early morning hikes offer the best light and higher chances of deer or wildlife sightings
- Combine your hike with a nearby country pub or village cafe
Autumn hikes near London are one of the best ways to enjoy the season without travelling far. Whether you want forest trails, coastal views or hilltop lookouts, there’s something on this list for every kind of walker.
Read more:
5 Best Pumpkin Patches Near London for a Perfect Autumn Day Out
8 Best Places to Visit in Europe in Autumn
This is a post about autumn hikes near London.
