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5 must see autumn highlights on the Estate

Autumn is a special time of year here at Markshall Estate. The russet, amber and auburn colours of the leaves, whether still on the trees or forming a carpet across the ground, bring out the best of nature across our whole Arboretum. But 200 acres is a lot of ground to cover, and with so many spectacular sights to see we’ve rounded up our top 5 for you. Let us know in the comments what your Markshall Estate autumn highlights are.

Ace acers in Asia

Acers, or maple trees, famously have some of the best autumnal colours. We have many different species across our Arboretum, but the acer japonicum (downy Japanese maple) are some of our favourites. Their leaves change colour early in the autumn, meaning their striking red colours is on show from late September.

The Birkett Long Millennium Walk

The Birkett Long Millennium Walk has been a seasonal favourite with visitors since it was first planted in 1999. Designed by landscape designer and former Trustee Peter Thurman, the planting provides vibrant autumnal colours throughout October and November that carry on into December and beyond. Look out for the bright red stems of dogwood and the glistening trunks of Himalayan birch trees which provide enchanting reflections in the upper lake. The flowers of the Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) also give a delicious scent along with the rich, sweetly perfumed and glossy leaved Sarcococca (Christmas Box).

Reflections in our Lakes

Our Lakes are a popular attraction all year round, but they are truly stunning in autumn as the still water helps reflect the spectacular transformations taking place. There were originally three lakes, these have since been modified to the two ornamental lakes that you see today. Separated by a dam, the lakes are fed by Robins Brook, which runs through the Arboretum, down cascades, over weirs, and under an ornate Iron Bridge constructed by Filmer Honywood in the early 19th century. The site of the hungry mouths of the large carp is also not to be missed!

Claret Ash

The Fraxinus angustifolia, or Claret ash, is a tree named for its deep autumn colour. Claret is exactly what you get here. Standing tall and proud near our 18th-century Coach House and Garden, you can’t miss these in the autumn months – and you wouldn’t want to!

Explore The Wild Wood

The crunch of leaves beneath your feet almost feels synonymous with autumn and the woods. Surrounded by various trees native to the UK and Europe, The Wild Wood is perfect for families to let their imaginations run wild. The hands-on play area is made from wood from across the Estate. Children can have fun jumping over stepping logs, playing on see-saws and building giant dens.