Discover Wild Lakeland

- Karen Lloyd

In autumn, Cumbria’s indigenous woodlands glory in the transformative power of the season. Lit by an increasingly shallow arc of sun, bracken flares deep red on the fellsides, and autumn and winter migrant birds begin to arrive.

The UK’s single-most visited national park, the Lake District swarms with visitors drinking in its scenic delights, particularly in summer. But in its quieter corners, it is evolving into more than a tourist attraction, as conservationists return the land to its wilder past. In these edgelands, wildlife thrives. This autumn, go beyond the gift shops and popular spots to discover the Lakes’ s finest natural spectacles.

In early October, the first port of call for any wildlife enthusiast must be to join a lake cruise with a difference on the RSPB Red  Deer Cruises. Watch brilliant autumn colours reflected in the lake as the steamer crosses Ullswater to Howtown, before a short walk leads to the Martindale reserve, home to one of the oldest native red deer herds in England. Rutting season delivers one of the Lakes’ wildest shows. Hear the stags bellow, the sound echoing around the fells, and watch as they compete in elaborate displays of power, roaring and fighting to claim dominance over the females. It’s a staggering spectacle.

You can also witness the dramatic red deer rut under the valley head of Haweswater, framed by the summits of Harter Fell, Mardale Ill Bell and Branstree. And during September, look out here for the mountain dwelling ring ouzel, an elusive member of the thrush family, feeding on juniper berries that flourish on the fellsides. Spy ravens, too, high above the steep Riggindale ridge.