Hampstead Heath in Autumn

Hampstead Heath is spectacular in any season, but Autumn is arguably the best time of year to visit and explore our green spaces. With the days shortening the Heath becomes a feast for our senses.

In the woodlands of Kenwood Estate the trees are changing colour and the paths are getting muddier. With leaves coming down the woods become airier and lighter and some of the more exotic species in Kenwood provide a dazzling display.

In places like Sandy Heath views open up and you can feel like you really are in the middle of the countryside.

Sandy Heath in Autumn

The sun is also lower in the sky at this time of year and combined with crisp mornings the Heath becomes a photographer’s dream – check out our Instagram for some recent shots, and look out for the 2022 Hampstead Heath Calendar on sale in our shop!

If you’re looking for classic Autumn photo opportunities, key Hampstead Heath places to visit include Lime Avenue, which turns into a glorious tunnel of gold and the Viaduct Pond, reflecting the surrounding colours of the trees.

Hampstead Heath’s Viaduct Pond

Hampstead Heath’s Lime Avenue in Autumn

Much like us, our wildlife is preparing for the colder months too, and you’ll notice squirrels hoarding caches of nuts, and animals that hibernate like the humble hedgehog will be busy stocking up on food for the long winter. The fruits in our hedgerows have ripened and any remaining on the trees will be a feast for the birds. You can support some of our work conserving the Heath’s hedgehogs here.

The Heath is also a great place to see fungi in Autumn, with over 350 species recorded. We’ve a fungal identification foray on the 13th November – see our What’s on page for details. You can find out more about the different species and habitats to be found on Hampstead Heath on our website.

If you’re planning on exploring Hampstead Heath this Autumn why not purchase an Explorer Map or walking guidebook in the our shop - or if you need assistance with your access needs click here.