10 Hidden UK Trails for a Perfect Family Autumn Weekend

These 10 hidden gems are perfect for a family-friendly autumn trail adventure. From woodland wonders to serene lakesides, each trail offers not just incredible scenery but also plenty of entertainment to keep the kids (and pets!) happy. So pack your walking boots, grab the dog lead, and head out for an unforgettable weekend in the UK’s autumn wonderland.

1. Fingle Woods, Devon

Best Trail: Fingle Bridge to Castle Drogo

Why Visit: Tucked away in the Teign Valley, Fingle Woods is a beautiful spot in autumn. The 3-mile trail from Fingle Bridge to Castle Drogo is mostly flat, making it great for families. The woodlands explode in vibrant reds and golds during autumn, and the trail is short enough for younger children but still interesting for adults.

Family Entertainment: Castle Drogo, a National Trust property, offers guided tours, woodland crafts, and a café for post-hike treats.

Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome on the trails and can enjoy the open spaces around the castle.

2. Derwent Valley, Peak District

Best Trail: Ladybower Reservoir Circular

Why Visit: A quieter alternative to the busier Peak District trails, the 5-mile Ladybower Reservoir Circular is perfect for a relaxing autumn day out. The flat terrain is accessible for children and pushchairs, and the reservoir reflects the fiery hues of surrounding trees.

Family Entertainment: Stop by the nearby visitor center for a children’s playground and educational exhibits about the valley’s history.

Dog Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of spots for them to splash in the reservoir.

3. The Fairy Glen, Skye, Scotland

Best Trail: Circular Walk Through the Fairy Glen

Why Visit: A hidden gem on the Isle of Skye, the Fairy Glen offers a mystical landscape of small hills, twisted trees, and strange rock formations. This short circular walk (just over a mile) feels like stepping into a storybook—a perfect setting for kids with vivid imaginations.

Family Entertainment: The glen itself is like a natural playground, and families can spend hours exploring its nooks and crannies. Bring a picnic for the perfect family day out.

Dog Friendly: Dogs will enjoy roaming the wide-open spaces, though keep them leashed as sheep often graze nearby.

4. Hawkshead Hill, Lake District

Best Trail: Tarn Hows Circular Walk

Why Visit: Often overlooked in favour of the more famous Lake District hikes, Tarn Hows is an easy 1.8-mile loop surrounded by autumnal scenery. The trail is level and suitable for both young children and buggies. The calm waters reflect the amber and gold of the surrounding trees, creating stunning photo opportunities.

Family Entertainment: The National Trust-run car park offers facilities and a small shop. You can also enjoy a gentle rowboat ride on the tarn for some extra fun.

Dog Friendly: Tarn Hows is an off-leash haven for well-behaved dogs.

5. Bedgebury National Pinetum, Kent

Best Trail: Family Cycle Trail

Why Visit: Bedgebury is home to the largest collection of conifers in the UK, and the Family Cycle Trail offers a fun, 6-mile path that is suitable for both walking and cycling. During autumn, the vivid redwoods contrast beautifully with the golden foliage.

Family Entertainment: The Gruffalo trail is a major hit with young kids, featuring sculptures of characters from the popular children's book. There's also an adventure playground and plenty of family-friendly picnic spots.

Dog Friendly: Dogs on leads are welcome throughout the park, and they’ll love the woodland areas.

6. Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland

Best Trail: Waterfall Walk

Why Visit: A hidden treasure in Northern Ireland’s Glens of Antrim, Glenariff Forest Park is known for its stunning waterfalls. The 3-mile Waterfall Walk is perfect for families, as it combines easy trails with spectacular views of cascading waterfalls amidst fiery autumn colors.

Family Entertainment: The visitor center has a great café, and there are picnic areas where families can rest and enjoy the scenery.

Dog Friendly: Glenariff Forest Park is dog-friendly, and there are water stations to keep pets hydrated.

7. Hampstead Heath, London

Best Trail: Hampstead Heath Circular

Why Visit: For a less-crowded autumn walk in London, Hampstead Heath offers a rural escape within the city. The 4.5-mile circular route offers views of the skyline and is ideal for families. In autumn, the Heath’s rolling hills are blanketed in amber and gold.

Family Entertainment: The famous Parliament Hill playground is a big hit with children, and there’s plenty of green space for picnics.

Dog Friendly: Hampstead Heath is extremely dog-friendly, with plenty of space for off-leash walks.

8. Bishop’s Wood, Lincolnshire

Best Trail: Family Woodland Walk

Why Visit: A well-kept secret, Bishop’s Wood offers a short but scenic 1.5-mile woodland trail. The forest is perfect in autumn when the towering trees turn into a mix of fiery oranges and golden yellows. The trail has interactive boards to keep kids engaged and teaches them about local wildlife.

Family Entertainment: The woodland is a nature reserve, so families can spot birds, insects, and squirrels. There’s also a natural play area for children to explore.

Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome throughout the woods, as long as they’re kept on a leash near wildlife areas.

9. The Trossachs, Loch Lomond, Scotland

Best Trail: Ben A’an Walk

Why Visit: For adventurous families, the 2.5-mile hike up Ben A’an offers an incredible panoramic view of Loch Katrine and the surrounding forests, all vibrant with autumn colors. Though steep in parts, it’s manageable for older children and rewarding for the entire family.

Family Entertainment: After the hike, enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine, where kids can learn about the area’s rich history and wildlife.

Dog Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of streams for them to cool off in after the hike.

10. Carding Mill Valley, Shropshire

Best Trail: The Reservoir Trail

Why Visit: Nestled in the Shropshire Hills, Carding Mill Valley is a tranquil spot with plenty of family-friendly walking options. The Reservoir Trail is a flat, 2-mile loop that’s perfect for little legs and pushchairs. In autumn, the valley is filled with the warm hues of bracken and trees.

Family Entertainment: Stop by the visitor center for a scavenger hunt kit or explore the natural play areas scattered throughout the valley.

Dog Friendly: Dogs are welcome, and there are shallow streams where they can paddle.