Five of the best autumnal walks to enjoy across Scotland

Dog Falls and Coire Loch, Glen Affric

Glen Affric is frequently named one of the loveliest parts of Scotland. And this circular walk encompasses the best parts of this historic glen: mountain views, a waterfall, dense woodland and a picturesque lochan. Everywhere you look is like a postcard, but highlights include the fast flowing Dog Falls and a viewpoint above Coire Loch. But as well as looking beautiful in its autumnal coat, this ancient Caledonian pine forest is one of the last true wilderness landscapes in the UK, a delicate ecosystem that supports all manner of life. You might spot some on the walk, including pine martens, roe deer and rare birds like the crossbill and capercaillie.

(Image: Getty Images)

Pollok Park, Glasgow

The dense woodlands of Pollok Park make it feel worlds away from the bustle of nearby Shawlands. And it’s even more beautiful in the autumn, when the paths become carpeted in leaves from the huge beech trees that shelter the park, making it a perfect escape within the city. You can also visit the resident Highland cow population, who look particularly handsome when their copper coats co-ordinate with the seasonal colours. Be sure to plan your walk to encompasses the vegetable patch, where you can see their pumpkins being grown – far better than visiting a manufactured pumpkin patch.

(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

River Tweed Circuit, Melrose, Scottish Borders

Melrose is one of those towns that tourists overlook on their route north, or to Edinburgh. But miss it out at your peril, with its lovely independent businesses, a historic abbey and a variety of walking and cycling routes down the River Tweed. One of the best is a circular loop that starts from the magnificent Melrose Abbey, through the town and then down to the peaceful riverside. Follow the path as far as Lowood Bridge, then return via the Southern Upland Way to cross the impressive suspension Chain Bridge. It’s a great way to see the autumnal colours reflected in the water, before warming up in the Apples for Jam café afterwards. Be sure to try one of their delightful homemade bagels while you’re there.

(Image: Getty Images)

Crathes Castle Red Squirrel Trail, Aberdeenshire

With woodlands, rivers, ponds, a sculpture trail, formal gardens, and a majestic 16th century castle, this walk has it all. Start by admiring the historic tower house, before heading into the historic pine forest, following the animal sculptures as way markers. You should also see some actual wildlife along the way, including woodpeckers, buzzards, herons and if you’re lucky, red squirrels. The dense woodland is a delight during autumn, while the ponds and fish ladder provide nice variety along the route. Once you return to the castle, it’s worth paying the £7 entry fee to the formal garden, split into eight sections that include sculpted topiary and massive yew hedges thought to have been planted in the early 1700s.

(Image: Getty Images)

Queen’s View and Allean Forest, Perthshire

Known as ‘Big Tree Country’, Perthshire is often considered to be at its very best in the autumn. And this walk is among the finest in the area, having had the royal seal of approval from Queen Victoria herself, when she visited here in 1866, as well as an alleged visit from Mary Queen of Scots. After a fairly steep incline through the dense pine woods of Allean Forest (where there’s car parking and a café), the moment you emerge through the trees at the designated viewpoint is nothing short of spectacular. You’ll be greeted by the wonderful autumnal foliage framing Loch Tummel, with the recognisable cone of Schiehallion seen in the distance. The return trail through the forest is lovely in its own right, with plenty of birds to spot alongside plants and flowers on the forest floor.