Bristol's golden greats
Some of the UK’s finest autumn nature experiences can be had in the south west of England this autumn.
Home to England’s national tree collection, Westonbirt Arboretum (just a 30 minute drive from Bristol) is one of the best places in the country to see autumn tree colour. There are 16,000 trees to meander around and it is a place of unrivalled beauty in October when the leaves turn spectacular shades of gold and red. Experts have indicated that 2013 will be a ‘mast year’ meaning that forests will yield a bumper crop of autumn fruits, nuts and seeds.
Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust in Gloucestershire is one of the UK’s vital winter sanctuaries for migrating birds and really comes alive throughout October. The sight and sound of thousands of overwintering birds arriving at the nature reserve - more than 35,000 wildfowl at the peak of the migration season – make this a favourite spot for wildlife lovers. During half term there is a special ‘Migration Challenge’ event for families.
Arnos Vale Cemetery in Bristol is perfect for crunching through autumn leaves in the daytime but stands out as one of the south west’s most atmospheric parks at dusk. Chapels loom out of the half light and graves peep from the undergrowth; a perfect setting for a Halloween visit.
Kathryn Davis, Destination Bristol's Head of Tourism, said "Proportionally, Bristol has more parks and green spaces than any other city, which makes it a perfect place to come and experience summer turning to autumn. Westonbirt Arboretum is a particular gem. It's wonderful all year round but really comes into its own in autumn and is without doubt one of the best places in the country to experience the change of season."
As well as enjoying nature’s spectacle, families can make the most of the diverse half term and Halloween events taking place at the end of October this year. Some of the best include:
Day of the Dead, Millennium Square, Saturday 26 October
West Country meets Latin America for Bristol’s Day of the Dead Festival or Día de los Muertos - a Mexican celebration where family and friends gather to remember those they have lost. There’ll be live music, fireworks and all the fun of Halloween but with a twist.
Twilight Walk, Arnos Vale Cemetery, Thursday 31 October
Find out about nocturnal creatures, hidden histories and tall tales. Enjoy a twilight torch-lit walk with games, a treasure hunt and arty activities. Dress up as a favourite Halloween creature, spook or character and bring a torch!
Halloween Festival, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November
A trick or treat trail around the zoo, creepy animal encounters, lantern parade and discount entry for children in fancy dress, Bristol Zoo Gardens has a whole week of spooky activities with beautiful displays of low-noise fireworks on 1, 2 and 3 November.
Rugby League World Cup USA v Cook Islands, The Memorial Stadium, Wednesday 30 October
Bristol is right in the thick of the action for the Rugby League World Cup 2013, being hosted at venues all around the UK. The Cook Islands will face USA at Bristol’s Memorial Stadium.
For more information about visiting Bristol this autumn, what to do and where to stay go to visitbristol.co.uk.
