5 ways to get into autumn

The season of mellow fruitfulness is getting under way and there are some great nature and foodie events going on

FUNGHI FORAYS It's the prime season for mushrooms and toadstools now and you can join guided woodland walks to find out more about them at the Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire. Ashridge Estate, Ringshall, Berkhamsted. Sat 27 & Sun 28 Sep, 10.30am, £4. Call the National Trust booking line on 01494 755572 (code E12).

BRITISH CHEESE FESTIVAL It's British Cheese Week, and there's a two-day tasting extravaganza at Blenheim Palace. See new varieties, buy from the makers and watch cheese-tossing 2026). Sat 27 Sep, 10am-5.30pm, Sun 28 Sep, 10am-4.30pm, £12, concs £10, children five-16 £8, under fives £3 (entry includes free parking plus £5 voucher for cheese tasting). www.thecheeseweb.com.

LEAF PEEPING AT OSTERLEY PARK A New England tradition, leaf peeping is a walk to enjoy the rich colours of autumn leaves. This event is hosted by a tree expert and the price includes a cream tea afterwards in the cafe. Osterley Park, Jersey Road, Isleworth, Middx (01494 755572, code E90 to book). Sun 5 Oct, 2.30pm-4.30pm, £6, child £3.

WILLOW WHOMPING AT THE CHASE One of London's unsung nature reserves, The Chase is having autumn willow coppicing (or whomping) sessions to clear the ground ready for winter and volunteers are invited to help. Millennium Centre, off Dagenham Road, Dagenham, Essex (020-8593 8096). Sun 5 Oct & Wed 8 Oct, 10am-3pm, free.