Autumn in the Pewsey Vale: A Season of Colour
Summer may have come to an end, but it’s certainly not time to hibernate just yet! Autumn in the Pewsey Vale is a glorious time of year for walking, cycling and enjoying the changing landscape.
After the lush greenery of summer, the next few weeks bring a spectacular transformation. As the days shorten and temperatures begin to fall, deciduous trees prepare for winter. Photosynthesis slows and eventually stops as there is no longer enough daylight for the process to continue efficiently. As the green chlorophyll fades from the leaves, the yellows, oranges and reds that have been there all along are revealed, creating the spectacular display of autumn colour we look forward to every year.
Autumn is also a wonderful time for hedgerow foraging, with plenty to discover beyond the familiar blackberries. Keep an eye out for crab apples and rosehips, among other seasonal treasures. Do take care, though, and make sure you can positively identify anything before picking or eating it.
And remember, the hedgerow is an important food source for wildlife too. If you’re not going to use what you pick, please leave it for the birds and other animals that depend on these fruits as part of their winter larder.
For anyone keen to learn more about hedgerow foraging, Hedgerow by John Wright (River Cottage Handbook No. 7) is a great source of information and guidance.
Three ways to enjoy autumn in the Pewsey Vale
We’ve picked out three ideas for getting outdoors and enjoying some of the magnificent autumn colours that make this season so special.
A wonderful woodland walk starting at The Swan Inn in Wilton, taking you to Wilton Windmill, then on to Bedwyn and Wilton Brails, with spectacular views and a totem pole!
A Visit to Gopher Wood
There are lots of paths that criss-cross this ancient oak woodland on the Pewsey Downs, which is renowned for its autumn colour. From here, pick up the Pewsey Vale Circular Way (also the route of the Mid-Wilts Way and the White Horse Trail) and head over to the Alton Barnes White Horse. You can park your car by St Nicholas Church in Huish.
The Grand Avenue in Savernake Forest is beautiful at any time of year, but not to be missed in its autumnal glory. The Savernake Tree Trail is a fairly level route that is just full of wonderful and ancient trees, including the Big Belly Oak (rather sadly right on the edge of the busy A346, but still very beautiful). The beech trees are breathtaking.
