Best Autumn dog walks in Bristol
As much as we love summer, we always look forward to our autumn dog walks in Bristol, when the trees change colour, leaves crunch under your feet and it becomes a bit quieter. We can hear Bella running through the woodland when she’s on a chase (very helpful for locating her when she’s in full speed spaniel mode). There are some beautiful woodlands to visit in Bristol at this time of year, and we would love to share some of our favourites with you.
Bishops Knoll
Bishops Knoll seems to be a hidden gem in Bristol and most definitely one of our favourite places to go for a dog walk in autumn. An intriguing forgotten arboretum with old stone walls that was once the recuperating ground for injured Australian soldiers in the first World War.
Badock’s Wood
Badock’s Wood is a beautiful walk any time of year, but in autumn, the paths are dusted with orange and red leaves that fall from the trees, making it a lovely place for a stroll with your pup. There’s a stream that winds through the woodland or try to find as many tree carvings as you can.
Blaise Castle Estate
A well-known dog walk in Bristol, that had to make it onto our list of autumn dog walks! With a huge variety of trees in every autumn colour, Blaise Castle Estate can be explored all season, with new areas to explore. There are streams, pools, caves, bridges and most importantly a spectacular view.
Eastwood Farm Nature Reserve
Eastwood Farm is a bit of a hidden nature reserve in Brislington. We didn’t know about it for years and when we finally explored there, we couldn’t believe how gorgeous it was! It is a big area with fields, meadows, woodland and pools with the River Avon meandering the boundary.
Goblin Combe
Goblin Combe is one of those woodlands that feels like it has a lot of mystery. We’ve been here for so many walks in autumn and it somehow always feels magical. In autumn, leaves gently flutter continuously to the ground and are almost hypnotic. There are a few different routes to explore.
Greyfield Wood & Stephen’s Vale Waterfall
Greyfield Wood is a little out of Bristol, but most definitely worth the drive. The 90 acres of woodland is beautiful, especially with the stunning Stephen’s Vale Waterfall. The waterfall cascades from the pool above, so pack your wellies, as you and your pup will love it here!
Kings Weston House
Kings Weston House is by far one of our most favourite dog walks. It has everything you want for a weekend wander; a historic landscape covering over 300 acres that include lawns, woodland, historic buildings, grand panoramas and a brilliant cafe (with a wood burner)! What else could you want?
Leigh Woods
A classic Bristol dog walk, especially in autumn, where the woods are quieter and there are mostly joggers and dog walkers. Wake up early on a crisp autumn morning and take the circular route to the spectacular viewpoint where you can see Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Oldbury Court Estate
Oldbury Court Estate is also another classic dog walk in Bristol, but it is a really lovely walk and ticks all the boxes for a family and dog day outing. With a few great routes to choose from, you can explore parkland, woodland and the river Frome that leads to Snuff Mills.
Towerhouse Wood
Towerhouse Wood is a small woodland in Wraxall with a small circular walk. Journey here to experience the Ty Sculpture Trail; a wonderful trail dedicated and created in the memory of Ty Partridge, who grew up in the house at the corner. There is also a mysterious bubbling pool hidden in the woods.
Westonbirt Arboretum
Westonbirt Arboretum is a perfect dog walk in autumn. Even though you need to pay for entry to the woods, it is certainly worth it for the variety of trees in a gorgeous display of bright, golden or burnished colours, especially the stunning and elegant Japanese maples.
National Trust Newark Park
Close to Bristol is the spectacular estate of Newark Park. With 3 easy to follow way-marked trails through the woodland, Newark Park is a delightful place to visit in autumn. The National Trust even host an Autumn Festival throughout October. Please be aware that dogs need to stay on lead here because of livestock.