As Summer cools off, Autumn in the south-east glows with its own beauty that has to be experienced. As the seasons cast an auburn brush across the leaves, it is a truly magnificent time of year to walk the great outdoors of Kent.

We suggest the North Downs Way National Trail as a starting point. Ramblers can roam as far as they please along the “Pilgrim’s path”, a winding corridor of nature that leads all the way to Canterbury. Along the trail, you’ll see farmland and woods or why not wander the old railway lines under the falling leaves through the High Weald area of outstanding beauty, a protected area covering 560 square miles.

Colder days lend themselves to storytelling, and Kent is full of stories. Here’s two recommendations for a little history.

SCOTNEY CASTLE

This ruined mediaeval castle wouldn’t look amiss in a book of Arthurian legend. But although it may appear desolate with its creeping ivy and surrounding moat, we can assure you that Scotney castle comes with all the mod-cons of a National Trust  site.

Explore the structure and grounds or dip into one of the Castle’s shops: delve into a book at their second-hand bookstore, Betsy’s, or take home a piece of nature with you from their plant shop.

BELMONT HOUSE

This 1769 estate in Faversham was once home to the Harris family, who collected a number of curiosities worth a visit. Browse their armoury, collection of Cazabon paintings and even their clock museum at Belmont House.

HALLOWEEN AND BONFIRE NIGHT

With so many landmarks of days past, Kent can get a little crowded when the veil is thinnest between the living and the dead! This year the holiday falls on a Thursday, making it the perfect beginning to a long weekend stay.

Leeds Castle , Walmer Castle  and Hever Castle all run family-friendly activities and events this time of year. Adults and older children may also enjoy the Pluckley Ghost Walk: a hair-raising, guided walking tour of the Guinness world record holder for Britain’s most haunted town  If you want to get into the history of a bigger city, try out Canterbury’s Ghost Tour, offered seven days a week and sure to get you into the spirit of October.

Sussex also has an unusually active scene of bonfire societies, with a famous procession in Lewes  and Edenbridge . Find a local display online  and experience the fervour of a Sussex Guy Fawkes for yourself.

Find no joy in an English Autumn? One perk of staying in Kent is that you’re never less than an hour from the Eurotunnel. We’d always recommend a stay at The Windmill, Hollingbourne (link) which is a perfect stop before embarking on the journey.

Travel from the Victor Hugo terminal to Coquelles, France in a leisurely 35 minutes. With prices from £69, LeShuttle takes you and your car under the Channel for a day of wine shopping or excursion to explore the French Opal Coast.