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- 31st Oct 2025
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12 beautiful spots for autumn leaf peeping across the North East (and beyond)
The leaves are finally starting to change, and with the mild weather we’re currently experiencing, now is the perfect time to get outside and soak up the season in all its golden glory.
If you haven’t heard the term leaf peeping before, it’s one borrowed from our friends across the pond – a phrase used to describe the simple act of seeking out and admiring autumn foliage.
Whether you’re after a peaceful woodland walk or sweeping moorland views, the North East has some of the best autumn colour displays in the country, and most are within two hours of Newcastle.
Gibside, Tyne & Wear
Rowlands Gill, NE16 6BG
Just a short drive from Newcastle, Gibside offers a beautiful mix of woodland, meadow, riverside walks and historic walled gardens. In autumn, the oaks and maples turn shades of amber and copper, while the Georgian landscape glows in the low sun. Wander along the River Derwent or take the long route to the column to see the estate in all of its glory.
HLN TOP TIP: There’s a great little café called Some Beans just two minutes away in Rowlands Gill which is worth a visit on your way home.
Raby Castle Estate, County Durham
Staindrop, DL2 3AH
Just over an hour from Newcastle, Raby Castle delivers both grandeur and natural beauty. Its parkland comes alive in autumn, with ancient oaks and sweeping lawns drenched in gold. Take the Blue Walking Route around the deer park (approximately 45 minutes) where two species of deer can often be found. Finish with a visit to The Plotters’ Forest play area or a warming lunch in the café. It’s the perfect blend of history, heritage and autumn glow.
HLN TOP TIP: Download the Raby Castle app to discover interactive maps and create bespoke tours of the grounds by filtering points of interest such as wildlife, history or land developments.
Wallington, Northumberland
Morpeth, NE61 4AR
Wallington’s gardens are a masterclass in seasonal colour — from the rich reds of the acers to the honey tones of the beech trees. Take a stroll through the walled garden, follow the riverside path, or admire the mirror-like reflections in the lily pond. Don’t miss the toffee-scented katsura tree, a sweet-smelling autumn favourite, and finish with a hot chocolate at the Clocktower Café.
HLN TOP TIP: For a highly rated mac ‘n’ cheese post-walk, the nearby Wallington Cafe comes highly recommend for hearty food, scones, cakes and hot drinks.
Allen Banks & Staward Gorge, Northumberland
Hexham, NE47 7BP
A true autumn wonderland. This steep gorge near Bardon Mill is filled with ancient oak and beech trees that transform into a sea of russet and gold each October. Follow riverside paths, spot red squirrels darting among the branches, and let the sound of the water and crunch of leaves underfoot reset your mind. A must-visit for anyone craving peace and natural beauty.
HLN TOP TIP: Bardon Mill Village Store and Tearoom is worth a visit for a cuppa and a cheese scone.
Hamsterley Forest, County Durham
Bedburn, DL13 3NL
If autumn had a soundtrack, it would be the rustle of leaves in Hamsterley Forest. This vast woodland is packed with walking and cycling trails that showcase the season at its best. The Bedburn Valley walk is particularly beautiful, winding through oak, birch and beech trees drenched in warm tones. Ideal for families, photographers, or anyone who loves to surround themselves with nature.
HLN TOP TIP: Pop into The Cross Keys which has already launched its Christmas menu. They home cook all of their pub food to order, it’s one not to miss.
Thorp Perrow Arboretum, North Yorkshire
Bedale, DL8 2PS
Around 90 minutes from Newcastle, Thorp Perrow is one of Britain’s finest tree collections, and autumn is when it shines. Expect fiery maples, golden birch trees and tranquil lakes reflecting the full palette of the season. There’s a woodland walk for every pace, and plenty of benches to sit and simply take it all in.
HLN TOP TIP: While you’re there, check out the Bird of Prey and Mammal Centre which is home to almost 100 birds from around the world.
Goathland, North Yorkshire
Whitby, YO22 5LX
This gorgeous lesser-known gem is well worth a day trip at this time of year. Surrounded by the North York Moors National Park, it’s famous for its role as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films. Take a scenic steam train ride to take in the views, or explore the Mallyan Spout Waterfall nearby. Our favourite route is the ‘Rail Walk’, which follows the path of an old railway line from Goathland to Grosmont, and take about 90-minutes.
HLN TOP TIP: Stop for a pint in Birch Hall Inn at Beck Hole. This tiny, quirky, pub was established in the early 1800s and secured the 30th spot in the Top 100 Bars in Europe 2025.
Cragside, Northumberland
Morpeth, NE65 7PX
Once home to Victorian inventor Lord Armstrong, Cragside is a masterpiece of engineering and landscape design, and autumn is a beautiful season to visit. Set among forests, lakes and rock gardens, the estate’s woodland trails glow with copper. Whether you wander the lakeside path or drive the scenic carriage route, Cragside offers pure leaf-peeping perfection.
HLN TOP TIP: Don’t miss out on a warming hot chocolate and a sandwich in the tearoom at the visitor centre.
Holystone Wood, Northumberland
Rothbury, NE65 7AX
Tucked away near Rothbury, Holystone Wood feels like a hidden world. Considered one of the most atmospheric and tranquil woods in the area, expect ancient oaks, waterfalls and the historic Lady’s Well. The tranquillity is so marked, a nunnery was built here in the 12th century, around which Holystone Village developed.
HLN TOP TIP: Rest your legs afterwards with a pint and some hearty comfort food at The Holystone Bar and Restaurant.
Jedburgh, Scottish Borders
Jedburgh, TD8 6AQ
Just across the border, Jedburgh is renowned for its show of autumn leaves. Fuel up with a coffee and a wander around the independent shops in the town centre, before taking a leisurely stroll along the river which at this time of year, is carpeted with crisp, red and golden leaves.
HLN TOP TIP: Fuel up with home-cooked Scottish food at Simply Scottish – one of the best cafes in the town.
Seaton Delaval Hall, Northumberland
The Avenue, NE26 4QR
Autumn at Seaton Delaval Hall feels like stepping into a painting. The grounds are awash with gold and amber, framed by the dramatic architecture of this Baroque mansion. Wander the arboretum trail, spot the ginkgo trees turning brilliant yellow, and enjoy a slower, more reflective stroll around the gardens before warming up in the café.
HLN TOP TIP: The Harbour View, considered one of the best fish and chip shops in the region, is just two minutes down the road in the village of Seaton Sluice.
Kielder Water & Forest Park, Northumberland
Kielder Waterside, NE48 1BT
For a truly cinematic autumn experience, head to Kielder. The forest’s vast stretches of larch and pine burst into colour beside the still waters of the lake, creating mirror-like reflections that are pure magic. Whether you drive the scenic route or walk one of the many trails (there’s something for everyone to enjoy), this is leaf peeping on a grand, wild scale.
HLN TOP TIP: Stay a night at Fountain Cottage in Bellingham, the gateway village to Kielder. This rural retreat has won several awards for its food and hospitality.
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