The leaves are changing colour, shops are filling with festive snacks and decorations and the clocks went back last weekend – it is safe to say the UK has now firmly transitioned into Autumn. However, the colder weather and darker nights can have a negative impact on how we feel day to day and we may notice a shift in our mental health.
Mind UK recommends trying to keep active as a tip for improving our mental wellbeing. So pack up your ORA 03 with your coats and jumpers (don’t forget your wellie boots if the weather is looking on the rainy side!) as we take a look at the best spots across Devon and Cornwall to enjoy an Autumnal walk this season.
Drakes Trail – Tavistock, Devon
Just 20 minutes from the GWM ORA South West Plymouth test drive centre, is a walking route originally developed especially for those with accessibility needs and the whole family and now forms part of Drakes Trail multi-use route. Starting in Tavistock, the route follows the canal through beautiful woodlands and fields. Once you’ve finished enjoy food and refreshments in Tavistock town centre.
Exeter Quay Circular Walks – Exeter, Devon
Enjoy a stroll along the river Exe this Autumn. Take in the hustle and bustle of Exeter Quay before your walk along the river. You can often spot heron fishing along the route as well canoeists and paddle boarders who enjoy the flat and easy atmosphere Exeter Quayside has to offer. Before crossing the suspension bridge and heading back to your start point, pop into the Double Locks pub for a drink and bite to eat.
Trelissick to Roundwood Quay – Near Truro, Cornwall
Just a 25 minute drive from GWM ORA South West Truro sits Trelissick House and gardens with its stunning views and woodland walks. The Trelissick to Roundwood Quay walk follows the River Fal with footpaths and gravel pathways through the woodland making it fairly easy terrain for all abilities. Watch out for the steep climb at the end though.
Godrevy Head – St Ives, Cornwall
With views across St Ives Bay and out to the lighthouse on Godrevy Island, this North Cornwall walk is great gem that makes up part of the South West Coast Path. Enjoy coastal grasslands, cliff-side views and the huge flocks of seabirds passing through on this walk.
Wistman’s Wood – Dartmoor, Devon
Park up opposite the Two Bridges Hotel and make your way along the short track and moorland where you’ll be met with moss drenched stones and old oak trees that make up the magical Wistman’s Wood. Treat yourself to a hot drink and scone at Two Bridges at the end of the walk.
Stover Country Park – Newton Abbot, Devon
With a lake at the heart of this nature reserve, there are plenty of tracks and wooded areas to explore at Stover Country Park if you want to move off the main footpath. Look out for the local wildlife that the park has to offer and take in the changing leaves and colours we see this time of year.
