A forestry specialist has predicted an exceptionally vibrant autumn display across UK woodlands this year, with leaves already beginning to change colour earlier than usual.
Matt Buff, founder of UK-based focus supplement brand, Get Dopa, spoke with Forestry England to identify prime viewing spots and optimal timing for witnessing the seasonal transformation, while highlighting how these natural displays can boost mental wellbeing during autumn months.
Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas agrees: “Creating small moments of joy is protective for mental health. A daily walk outside during daylight hours, especially in nature, gives both daylight exposure and movement, both known to boost dopamine and serotonin,” she says.
The warm spring and record-breaking June sunshine have created ideal conditions for trees to develop high sugar content in their leaves, according to Forestry Englandforecasts, resulting in what could be one of the most striking autumn displays in recent years.
“It’s common for people to feel a dip in energy, motivation, and mental clarity as the seasons shift particularly in early autumn when daylight hours reduce and routines change,” Matt said. “Research shows that exposure to natural environments, even for short periods, can improve cognitive performance and mood.”
Matt explained that getting outside into nature, especially during autumn, can help counter seasonal slump and support mental focus and wellbeing.
Helen Chick from Forestry England confirmed that conditions are right for a show-stopping autumn this year.
“The shortening day length and cooler temperatures are triggers for autumn colour. Warm and sunny days, followed by cool nights bring on the most vibrant colours,” she said. “We’re beginning to see seasonal tones from some of the earlier colourers, while some of the stresses of the season we’ve had are showing on some trees too.”
Trees to watch
Trees expected to show the most dramatic colours include common beech with rich golden-brown tones, native rowan with bright red berries, and Japanese maples displaying vivid reds, pinks, and oranges, particularly at Westonbirt Arboretum.
Other spectacular species include hornbeam with its coppery glow, sweet gum with shiny burgundy foliage, paperbark and other maples showing golden hues, and Persian ironwood with yellow, red, and purple tones.
“Thanks to a warm spring and significant sunshine in June, Forestry England are predicting a magnificent autumn,” added Chick.
Top hotspots this year
Forestry England manages over 1,500 forests across the country, with expert guidance on when to visit for peak colour.
Southern England forests like Alice Holt in Hampshire and Friston Forest in East Sussex will likely show best colours from mid-September to early October.
Eastern woodlands including Thetford Forest in Norfolk and Bedgebury Pinetum in Kent should display vibrant colours from late September to mid-October.
The Midlands locations such as Salcey Forest in Nottinghamshire and Cannock Chase in Staffordshire will peak from late September to mid-October.
Northern England sites like Grizedale Forest in the Lake District and Kielder Forest in Northumberland will likely peak in early to mid-October and last longer due to cooler temperatures.
South West locations including Haldon Forest Park in Devon, Cardinham Woods in Cornwall, and Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire will show early colour from mid-September, with vivid displays through early October.
Andrew Smith, Director at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, shared his optimism for the season ahead.
“We’ve had a very warm and sunny summer, and that helps trees build up the sugars in their leaves that create those amazing autumn colours,” he said. “The cooler nights and shorter days on the way will trigger the change, and we’re expecting a really beautiful display this year.”
The summer’s conditions, particularly the hottest June on record as reported by the Met Office, have created ideal conditions for trees to develop high sugar content in their leaves. These sugars lead to more vivid reds, oranges, and purples when triggered by the shorter daylight hours and cool nights of autumn.
Regular time spent in green spaces is shown to improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and help maintain mood stability as seasons change.
“Autumn is a fantastic time to get outside and reconnect with nature,” added Smith. “The nation’s forests are already starting to change, and with such promising conditions, we’re expecting a colourful show from September right through to November.”
