The leaves have started to change, the hedgerows are laden with berries and the trees heavy with fruit. Squirrels scuttle past, busily collecting for their hibernation and the sunlight has changed to a golden hue.

Despite the Indian summer, there are definite signs of Autumn all around. For decades the Wye Valley and The Forest of Dean has seen an influx of visitors during these months, coaches travel the leaf-speckled roads as the passengers enjoy mile upon mile of stunning autumn foliage – a little Vermont filled with colour – woodlands are crisp under foot and Instagram-able views are around every corner.

It it enchanting, and, with its easy accessibility, it’s the perfect location for an autumnal weekend break.

I’ll also be sharing my favourite places to stay in the area in the coming weeks, so do follow to receive notifications.

So, if you have only two or three days what should be on your Wye Valley Autumn break bucket list? Here’s a few ideas….

Stop at Valeries Cafe in Monmouth for a seasonal scone – they are ‘The Scone Specialists’ and offer a variety of traditional, and more quirky flavours, as well as a super selection of locally sourced teas, delicious lunches and sustaining breakfasts.

Be sure to visit Beechenhurst Sculpture Trail in The Forest of Dean for the most epic autumnal leaf peep, and some rather amazing installations too. There’s a cafe for warming hot chocolate and special trails for the little ones to explore.

Locals head to the The Bell Inn at Redbrook, on the banks of the River Wye which has a lovely selection of local real ales and ciders, and an excellent mobile Fish and Chip van (Monday’s only) which also offers veggie and gluten-free options. The perfect place to while away a few hours on a warm autumn evening.

Take a few hours to walk or cycle between Hadnock Road, Monmouth and Symonds Yat East (which recently featured in Netflix’s Sex Education) this 5 mile walk, The Peregrine Path, takes you along the old railway line, now a cycle path, following the Wye through the idyllic Biblins with its suspension footbridge.

For the majority of the way you are in a silent, arboreal idyl, with only the mew of Peregrine Falcons and Buzzards or the gentle birdsong, to interrupt the solitude. Keep an eye out for Kingfishers, Heron and other waterfowl on the river, as well as the occasion Otter. Stop for a drink or a light bite at one of Symonds Yat East’s several pubs, or take a trip across the river to Symonds Yat West on the old rope-hauled ferry.

Pay a visit to Tintern Abbey. Made famous by Wordsworth, yet at the centre of early tourism, Tintern Abbey is certainly one not to miss. Located between Monmouth and Chepstow, the Wye Valley road, on which it stands is one of the most picturesque to drive. Lit up and night, the Abbey has stood since the early 13th century and despite falling foul to Henry VIII it’s still a remarkable piece of architecture.

For a fine dining experience, which will need booking well in advance, The Whitebrook is one of Wales’ most famous Michelin starred restaurants. Located high above the Wye Valley on a wooded lane, it offers exquisite food, often foraged and usually locally sourced. Eating here is a true ‘experience’, the service and presentation is outstanding and food heavenly.

If you’re visiting on October 8th, do check out The Forest Showcase food festival, held at the historic Speech House in the heart of the forest. A small, but local food festival, with all manner of yummy goodies to try. Why not take a little bit of this wonderful area home, to enjoy later?