7 inns with colourful autumn walks straight from their doors

What do you love most about autumn? For us it's the beautiful bright leaves, roaring fires to cosy up next to, excellent red wine and delicious hearty food. We can't forget conkers too!

Autumn is a magical time of year for exploring the wonders of the British countryside. As the landscape erupts into a kaleidoscope of colours, it becomes a favourite season for woodland strolls and moorland rambles.

To help you experience Britain's autumn splendour, we've unearthed seven inns within our Collection where you can enjoy colourful autumn walks straight from their doors. Each one is nestled amongst stunning rural countryside which awakens with reds, oranges and golds during the autumn months.

 

1. The Craigellachie, Craigellachie, Moray

Lost in glorious countryside in the magical, wild valley of Speyside, you'll find The Craigellachie, Scotland's oldest whisky hotel with a mind-boggling collection of over 900 whiskies! Plus, its own country pub with excellent Scottish food and local craft ales; The Copper Dog.

An idyllic autumn escape where you can enjoy colourful walks and cycle rides along surrounding forest trails, before retiring to one of the comfortable, country-style rooms that perfectly reflect the Scottish location and heritage (mountain bikes are available for hire on site).

 

2. The Beckford Arms, Fonthill Gifford, Wiltshire

The Fonthill Estate, nestled in the heart of south west Wiltshire and home to the picture-book Beckford Arms, will soon be ablaze with reds and golds. So head to this 18th century treasure for stylish rooms, fresh food, and roaring fires in the bar.

Its relaxed atmosphere and easy-going service work well with the wonky period charm of the building. Plus its gloriously rural location on the edge of the Fonthill Estate makes this a superb spot for a little rest and relaxation. On autumn nights, the place exudes a dark, burnished warmth, thanks to soft lights and log fires.

 

3. Felin Fach Griffin, Brecon, Powys

Filled with hills and gorges, waterfalls and woodlands, lakes and forests, the Brecon Beacons offer fabulous autumn walking, with trails to suit all levels of experience and fitness.

A perfect base to explore this magical land is the Felin Fach Griffin, a firm favourite on the Welsh culinary map which shines as bright as a beacon amongst the rolling hills.

After a day's ramble and a long relaxing bath, the place to be is in the homely bar, hunkered down on the sofa in front of the fire with a drink in hand chatting about the day's events.

 

4. The Inn at Whitewell, Whitewell, Lancashire

Savour the rich colours that swathe the moorland hills of the Trough of Bowland from the comfort of the bar or your room at this stately old inn set in a gorgeous spot beside the River Hodder.

Despite its splendid isolation, there is much to enjoy when you arrive. Situated in grand walking and cycling country, paths and trails radiate from the Inn at Whitewell's front door. Bring your dog, don your boots and ramble across the fabulous local countryside, before cosying up next to a blazing log fire on your return.

 

5. The Dorset Arms, Hartfield, East Sussex

The Dorset Arms is an estate owned treasure, worth finding for traditional rustic charm, menus brimming with estate produce, and gorgeous rooms in the refurbished old schoolhouse with leafy window views.

It's a cracking base for exploring the glorious Ashdown Forest; an ancient area filled with heathland and woods that are resplendent in October. Make sure to stroll through Five Hundred Acre Wood to Pooh Sticks Bridge.

 

6. The Old Hall Inn, Chinley, Derbyshire

Find this exquisite 16th century inn and adjoining Elizabethan manor house nestled in a sleepy Peak District village. Beat a path to the door for sublime food, romantic rooms and stunning Peak views.

Enjoy sensational walks and off road cycling trails on the Old Hall Inn's doorstep, each one perfect for experiencing the changing autumnal landscape. Great places nearby to experience the Peaks in all their autumn glory are Chinley Head and Hope Valley.

 

7. The Rose & Crown, Romaldkirk, County Durham

The rugged moorland landscape of Upper Teesdale explodes with colour in late October and November, and this striking old inn in idyllic Romaldkirk, next to the 12th century church of St Romald, makes the ideal base for exploring its paths.

The Rose and Crown is replete with log fires, dishes championing authentic local flavour, and characterful dog friendly rooms.

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