countryside walk in the fresh Buckinghamshire air is the best way to welcome Autumn. 

Sunglasses and ice cream have been swapped out for beanie hats and pumpkin spice lattes meaning we have left the long summery nights well and truly behind. 

As the nights start to draw in, we can also start to enjoy the leaves changing colour and take in some of the best countryside walks that Buckinghamshire has to offer.

Here is a list of just some of those routes that should help you get out exploring what is on your doorstep.

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Best walks in Buckinghamshire to enjoy this Autumn

Cliveden woodlands

Overlooking the River Thames, walkers can take advantage of beautiful gardens and woodlands whilst also taking in the striking views from the top of the chalk cliffs.

The route is described as moderate and is around 2 miles long and should take you around 2 hours to complete.

You should be advised that you would need to be a National Trust member or pay an entrance fee to admire the Cliveden estate.

You should also note that the route isn't accessible to dogs.

Find out more via the National Trust website.

Whiteleaf Cross

See the leaves changing colour up close by taking a brisk Autumnal walk up Whitelead Hill.

You will be rewarded with breathtaking views on top of the Chilterns over Buckinghamshire and there are plenty of other delights along the way.

The woodlands from Whiteleaf to Pulpit Hill and beyond are all linked by The Ridgeway National Trail so you can venture as far as you would like.

Plan your route by visiting the Chilterns: Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty website.

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Coombe Hill and Chequers trail

If you are up for more of a challenge, why not take on the Coombe Hill and Chequers trail?

The circular route, which ranges from 5 to 7 miles long will delight you with glorious vistas across the Aylesbury Vale.

It will certainly blow away the cobwebs as you take in the sights of the rare chalk grassland, tranquil woodlands as well as the pretty village of Ellesborough and the Prime Minister’s country retreat at Chequers.

The picturesque route is ideal for families looking to pack a picnic or take the dog out too.

See more about the walk by visiting the National Trust website.

Fingest and Skirmett Ciricular

Fancy walking in the footsteps of your favourite TV and film stars from the likes of The Vicar of Dibley, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Midsomer Murder? Look no further.

Starting in Turville, the 3.29 mile circular trail starts with a worthwhile climb up Turville hill which opens for stunning views over the Chilterns and the rest of the county.

The route is considered fairly easy and is popular with fishers and hikers alike.

Plan out your journey by visiting the All Trails website.

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The Ridgeway

Take in the highlights of the season by trying out some of the 87-mile-long Ridgeway.

One of the most popular routes is located in Buckinghamshire, starting in Chinnor and ending in Bledlow. 

The secluded and calming walk will take you through chalky and picturesque woodland where you can enjoy views of the Chiltern landscape. 

Learn more about the Ridgeway trail by visiting the Visit Buckinghamshire website.

When does Autumn 2022 start? What is the Autumn Equinox?

Autumn occurs when we reach the autumn equinox.

The autumn equinox occurs in September every year, and it is the mark of summer ending in the northern hemisphere.

As the earth orbits the sun, it is tilted on an axis which means that as it orbits it illuminates the northern or southern hemisphere differently, depending on where it is in orbit.

However, at two points in the year, the sun will illuminate both hemispheres equally – these are the autumn and spring equinoxes.

In 2022, the UK Autumn equinox occurs on Friday, September 23 at 2:03am, signalling the end of summer and the start of a new season.

Find out more about this year's Autumn Equinox.