Autumn Colour Watch: what a difference a week makes
Autumn is a spectacular time of year at Westonbirt. This photo-packed blog will take you through the weekly highlights of what’s looking good and where. Photographs featured here have been taken in the few days prior to publication. Visit the Forestry Commission website for more information about what’s happening at Westonbirt during autumn.
Well, what a difference a week makes when it comes to autumn colour!
In Acer Glade, you'll see a marked change. Gone are the subtleties of previous weeks, as we welcome in vivid colour in abundance. As you approach Acer Glade there are glimpses of the bright leaves. Turn the corner and you'll be amazed!
As well as views from the paths, getting amongst the leaves and under the canopies gives a different perspective. Even if the skies are overcast the colours shine through strongly.
It's not just the mass plantings of maples that are impressive. Keep an eye out for individual specimens with striking branch structure and leaf colour. The first two pictured are in the easterly end of Acer Glade. The third is on Holford Ride.
Out in Silk Wood, maples are once again the star turn of the week. The National Japanese Maple Collection is a bank of varied autumn colour and has some fine specimens perfect for autumnal photography.
On Willesley Drive, one of our most photographed maples is living up to expectations, again with its strong structured branches and bright leaf colour - a winning combination. There is plenty more to catch the eye elsewhere on Willesley and not just from maples!
Other highlights of the week include Hickories, which have suddenly changed to their brightest yellow tones - pictured here on Broad Drive and Main Drive - and more fascinating fungi.
Useful links:
Directions to Westonbirt Arboretum (our postcode is GL8 8QS)
