Get Outdoors this Autumn at Beaulieu

September 2022

September is here, a time of new beginnings, sharpened pencils and shift in the seasons. But as this years never ending and extremely warm summer comes to an end, and we move into cooler autumnal months, the way in which we experience the outdoors may change but does not need to come to an end. From gardening to walking or cycling, this time of year presents hundreds of ways to continue enjoying the great outdoors.

For residents at The Arbour, Beaulieu, there are plentiful green spaces to enjoy just a short walk away. The site is located within the majestic former parklands of the Palace of Beaulieu, the summer residence of King Henry VIII. As well as 176 acres of outdoor public space and lush newly planted woodlands, in February this year, works began to deliver new landscaped Community Gardens, which will span over 11 acres of the Beaulieu site. Once complete, the gardens will include a community fruit orchard and planting area, giving residents and the wider community more opportunities to partake in outdoor pursuits. The Beaulieu Estate Management will work with residents to manage gardening projects and host events – a chance for neighbours to come together and enjoy the outdoors close to home.

In the meantime, for green fingered residents, Autumn is the perfect time to get organised for next year, planting new bulbs and seeds, whilst the soil is still warm and before the frosts of winter descend. Creating your very own vegetable garden at home or getting a space at a nearby communal allotment is a great way to try out gardening and grow fresh, healthy food.

For a garden plot, start with a small area at first (you can increase this over time if space allows) and choose easy grow vegetables and fruits. Respect the sunlight and shadiness of your plot with your choices, but as a rule courgettes, potatoes, beans and strawberries are some great veg crops for beginners.

For those less interested in gardening and more interested in exploring, The Arbour presents a plethora of opportunities and ways to get a taste of fresh air and explore the nearby natural environments in autumn. Residents at The Arbour have easy access to several green spaces across the wider Beaulieu development as well as cycle routes and walking trails throughout Chelmsford’s beautiful surrounding countryside.