12 secret spots in Shropshire for autumn colours - with wonderful walks, cosy cafes and the best pubs

The rolling hills, ancient woodlands and historic villages look their most magical at this time of year – perfect for crisp walks followed by steaming mugs of coffee and cosy pub fires.

Here are some of the best places in Shropshire to explore this autumn season – from scenic woodland trails with fiery autumn colours to charming cafés and tucked-away historic sites.

And best of all, many of these spots are completely free, so you can enjoy Shropshire’s autumn beauty without spending a penny (except maybe on cake or a pint afterwards!).

1. Lyth Hill Country Park – Woodland trails with panoramic views

Just outside Shrewsbury, this peaceful park is often overlooked in favour of the Long Mynd. In autumn, its woodlands glow with reds and golds, and the ridge offers sweeping views across the Wrekin and Welsh hills.

Free entry, dog-friendly, perfect for a shorter autumn stroll.

2. The Dingle, Quarry Park (Shrewsbury) – Take a break from shopping with a burst of autumn colour 

In the heart of Shrewsbury, Percy Thrower’s sunken garden is at its best in autumn. Japanese maples and ornamental trees bring a fiery splash of colour, and it’s free to visit. 

Afterwards, pop into one of Shrewsbury’s cosy independent cafés like The Groundskeeper, Oath or Ginger & Co for a warm-up.

3. Ellesmere’s Mere & Cremorne Gardens – Lakeside autumn wanders

A tranquil alternative to the busier Lake Vyrnwy, Ellesmere’s Mere is fringed with woodlands that turn beautifully in autumn. A loop around the water offers birdwatching and quiet reflection, with Victorian gardens adding a quirky twist.

The Boathouse Café is a snug stop for tea and cake with lake views.

4. Stokesay Castle – Fairytale fantasies in crisp country air

This fortified medieval manor near Craven Arms is like stepping into a fairytale. Surrounded by trees that blaze with autumn colour, it’s a lesser-visited English Heritage site where you can soak up history and crisp country air.

Entry fee applies, but often quieter than other castles — free for English Heritage members.

5. Apley Woods (Telford) – Enchanted woodland with autumn magic

Tucked away in Telford, Apley Woods is a true hidden gem for an autumn wander. Once part of a grand estate, its mix of ancient trees, pools, and winding trails make it feel like stepping into a secret garden. Keep an eye out for sculptures dotted along the paths, as well as the remains of old estate features like the icehouse.

Free to explore, with gentle, family-friendly walks – perfect for a crisp Sunday stroll. When you're done, head into nearby Wellington to visit their Victorian market where you can pick up tasty treats at the fantastic food court.

6. Severn Valley Country Park – Riverside peace and golden woods

Set along the River Severn near Alveley, this country park offers riverside strolls, woodlands, and old railway heritage. Autumn brings mist over the river and glowing leaf canopies.

Great for dogs and featuring a new café opening in September - perfect for a hot chocolate.

7. Mortimer Forest (Ludlow) – A woodland wonderland

Straddling the Shropshire/Herefordshire border, this huge forest is a spectacular but underrated autumn destination. Trails range from gentle family walks to longer hikes, with valleys filled with colour and plenty of hidden picnic spots.

End the day in Ludlow with a pint by the fire at The Church Inn, The Wheatsheaf Inn or the Rose and Crown.

8. Haughmond Hill – A little or long autumn escape

Often overshadowed by The Wrekin, Haughmond Hill just east of Shrewsbury offers family-friendly trails spanning a range of distances, with wide views towards the Shropshire Hills. Its mixed woodland makes for a stunning autumn display.

There's a small charge for parking but entry is free, there's a forest cafe, and your four-legged friends will love it here.

9. Clun & The Clun Valley – A storybook village in autumn

The sleepy village of Clun is steeped in history, with the ruins of Clun Castle framed by autumn colours. The valley itself is full of quiet lanes and hidden trails, perfect for a peaceful autumn ramble.

Warm up with a pub lunch at The White Horse Inn – a real locals’ gem.

10. Grinshill Woods – A local secret with panoramic views

A true hidden gem near Wem, Grinshill is beloved by locals but rarely busy. Its sandstone quarries, twisting woodland trails, and hilltop views make it perfect for a crisp autumn hike.

Parking is free, and once you're done you can head into Wem and treat yourself to a snack from artisan bakers at The Pastry Box.

11. Attingham Park Deer Park - For your autumnal Bridgerton fantasies

While the main house is popular, the deer park often feels like a hidden world in autumn. Walk through sweeping parkland as herds of fallow deer roam among amber-coloured trees – a magical seasonal sight.

Grounds-only entry at £12.10 for adults, £6.05 for children and free for National Trust members. The grounds are dog-friendly, there's a fantastic café and a cosy bookshop.

12. Hawkstone Park Follies - A quirky and magical autumn adventure

If you’re after something truly different, Hawkstone Follies is a maze of caves, grottoes, towers and dramatic sandstone cliffs hidden in ancient woodland. 

In autumn, the golden canopy makes exploring its winding paths and secret tunnels even more magical. It feels like stepping into a fantasy world. 

Entry fee applies (£10.50, under fours free), but worth it for a full day’s exploring and nearby Market Drayton offers plenty of cosy pubs for a post-walk pint.