Autumn brings with it a host of delights, from changing leaves to the comforting taste of pumpkin-spiced lattes. However, one tradition that is cherished by many is embarking on an autumnal walk.
This provides an opportunity to marvel at the stunning transformation of tree colours and enjoy the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot.
Forest strolls can be particularly enchanting during this season, and a recent study has highlighted one in the Peak District as among the best for this autumn.
Padley Gorge, situated on the eastern flank of the Peak District and approximately a 90-minute drive from Greater Manchester, has been ranked as the fourth top woodland walk in the UK.
This captivating route guides you past cascading waterfalls, babbling brooks and gnarled trees, creating a truly atmospheric experience.
What sets Padley Gorge apart is its ancient oak and birch woodland, nestled within a deep valley. The Burbage Brook flows through it, crossed by wooden bridges and stepping stones, conjuring up scenes reminiscent of a fairytale.
The walk was included in a list compiled by outdoor specialists at GO Outdoors. They analysed Google reviews, Instagram posts and Google searches to identify the UK’s premier woodlands and forests, assigning each a ‘woodland score’ out of 10, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Padley Gorge secured fourth place on the list, boasting 26,574 Instagram posts and 137,000 annual Google searches. The walk earned a woodland score of 8.12 out of 10, tying in joint fourth position with Thetford Forest.
Hampshire’s New Forest has topped the list with an impressive score of 9.94, thanks to its staggering number of Instagram posts – 1,119,935. Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean secured second place, boasting a score of 9.03, while Tollymore Forest in County Down clinched third position.