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Capture the magic of autumn
As we welcome autumn changes from vibrant landscapes to dramatic sunsets, we want your help capturing the beauty of this season at Waddesdon.
Autumn is a season of beautiful change and from September to early November it is a great time to explore the gardens as they transition to hues of scarlet, gold and orange. Join in with the National Trust’s autumn challenge to photograph the things that make this season so special and share your snaps on social media using #MyWaddesdon and #EveryoneNeedsNature.
Here are some themes to give inspiration as autumn unfolds around the gardens.
1. Autumn reflections
Double the sculpture, double the trees, double the beauty. As you breath in the crisp autumn air on a walk, see sculptures in the gardens before they are ‘put to bed’ for the winter. Venture towards our Parterre fountain, and see how the autumnal colours shimmer in its reflection. You might even be able to capture a reflection of the Manor in a puddle.
Interested in sculpture?
Discover sculpture around the grounds with our online trail>
(Please note that the pair of Lafite candelabras by Joana Vasconcelos have been moved from the North Front for conservation)
2. Tree-mendous trees
The grounds are full of special trees which come into spectacular colour at this time of year. Some of the best trees for autumn colour include our Horse Chestnuts, London Plane, Sycamore and Japanese maple. Soak up the fiery reds, oranges and yellows as you enjoy a walk to find the most picturesque trees to capture.
To help find your way and to discover more about our remarkable trees, take a look at our tree trail.
Tremendous trees online trail>
3. Gourd-geous
Nothing says autumn like a pumpkin, and if you’re joining us for October half-term there’ll be locally-grown pumpkins galore. If you come to carve one, please share your creations with us, like this incredible carving of the Manor by one of our colleagues.
More about Halloween half-term>
4. Fabulous fungi
As the temperature cools, head into the woodland around the grounds and look out for the weird and wonderful fungi that nature produces. Spot them on the ground, hiding under fallen leaves or on tree trunks. We look forward to seeing pictures of the unusual shapes and sizes you find.
We recommend Baron’s Walk that’ll take you through woodland to catch sight of toadstools aplenty.
5. Unbe-leaf-able
A bountiful array of warm colours spread across the garden as the landscape is injected with shades of red, gold, brown and orange. Whether they’re still on the tree or fallen to the ground, admire the shape, colour and beauty of autumn leaves.
6. Nature’s fireworks
In anticipation of Bonfire Night look to the gardens for nature’s fireworks as shrubs and trees burst into colour. Did you know the reason why we don’t have real fireworks at Waddesdon is to protect our feathered friends in the Aviary?
Read more about the birds in the Aviary>
Remember to share your photos with us using #MyWaddesdon.
Discover more about the National Trust’s #EveryoneNeedsNature autumn challenge>