National Trust reveals why autumn provides its most spectacular sensory experience for Sussex guests

Why is autumn the best season for a National Trust visit?

As rising temperatures make early autumn frosts increasingly rare in the south, displays of late summer colour in National Trust gardens are flowering for much longer into the year; throughout autumn and sometimes even into December.

These floral shows are converging with more traditional autumn spectacles – harvests of fruit, brightly coloured squashes, rich bark and foliage – it’s a meeting of the seasons that provides a visual feast.

As the nights get longer the changes speed up and every week there’s something new to see, from fiery-coloured leaves on ornamental vines and Japanese maples, to golden grasses and architectural seedheads.

Early autumn is also a quieter time to visit National Trust places in Sussex. The crowds and the heat of summer have gone and the pace has slowed, allowing time to relax and reconnect with the landscape.

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What will you see when you visit this autumn?

At Nymans, near Handcross, spires of brightly coloured dahlias and salvias mingle with pastel anemones, cosmos and Michaelmas daisies. You’ll find jewel-coloured zinnia, snapdragons and strawflowers too. Wander through old wooden doorways into walled gardens steeped in history.

At Standen, near East Grinstead, areas still function as working kitchen gardens where vegetables are harvested for the café, and espaliered fruit trees are laden with apples, pears and plums. Look out for huge orange pumpkins swelling in their patches. You’ll find orchards too, where the fruit is collected and sold to visitors for a small donation.

What gives autumn its magic?

On a cool morning visit look out for dew-covered spiders’ webs sparkling on the grass and mist rising from the lakes at Petworth House and Park. In late afternoon, shadows lengthen across the Capabililty Brown parkland and you may experience that magical moment known as the golden hour, when low sunlight casts a soft warm glow over the landscape. It’s a great time to bring your camera.

Petworth’s 700-acre park has been home to a magnificent herd of fallow deer for over 500 years. In autumn you might hear them as well as see them – it's deer rut season. The best way to experience this incredible sight is on a guided deer rut walk: 28-30 October & 2-4 November, booking is essential.

With the inevitable drop in temperature comes that lovely cosy energy we enjoy from a crisp change in the air, the sound of crunchy leaves beneath our feet and the joy of hunting for chestnuts and conkers. As trees in ancient parklands and woods gradually change colour, this is a great time to take advantage of the downloadable walks on offer at our places in the South Downs. They will lead you into beautiful autumn landscapes, from hedge-lined farmland to native woodland. Check out some of our best autumn colour walks on the Slindon Estate.

Famed autumn colour

Sheffield Park and Garden is famed for its autumn colour. Arthur Soames, owner during the early 20th century, introduced many of the species which create this spectacle including Nyssa, Acer and Taxodiums. The reflections in the lakes add to the splendour and provide the perfect photograph. The autumn planting is recognised as being of international importance; so much so that the garden has received a Grade I listing.

More to enjoy this autumn in Sussex

Autumn is not just about fabulous seasonal sights. Here are some other highlights that will make your visits ones to remember.

‘The Art of Illusion’ exhibition at Nymans explores the creative output of Oliver Messel, from interior design to theatre props and film work. See costumes designed by Masters students from Wimbledon College of Art, inspired by Oliver Messel in the newly opened Oriel Room. Until 1 Nov

‘Inspired by Standen: The future of Arts and Crafts’ is a vibrant exhibition by some of the UK's most exciting makers, bringing contemporary creativity into the heart of the Arts & Crafts house at Standen. 'Inspired by Standen' is presented in partnership with Sussex Contemporary. Until 30 Sept.

The Maker’s Fair at Standen featuring artists and makers showcasing heritage craft and contemporary design. Fri 11, Sat 12 & Sun 13 Sept.

‘Expressions in Blue: Monumental Porcelain by Felicity Aylieff’ exhibition at Petworth House & Park: soaring porcelain sculptures and richly decorated enamelled vessels in the house and parkland at Petworth.

Visit National Trust places for free this autumn – Heritage Open Days

Did you know that in September you can visit many National Trust places for free, during Heritage Open Days? And if you’re already a National Trust member, this is a great opportunity to introduce family and friends to some of your favourite places.

On set dates between 11 and 20 September. Find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/heritage-open-days

To find out more about National Trust places in Sussex, or to sign up for a membership, visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/sussex