THE autumn colours get a good showing at the National Trust grounds of Cliveden.

October is the best month to experience autumn leaf and berry colour and the acers in the Water Garden are one of Cliveden’s autumn stars.

Golden yellows and burnished reds of Norway and Japanese maples mingle with the glorious amber, crimson and deep purple leaves of the liquidambar tree.

For a family day out, pick up the free trail, add a visit to the giant Cliveden Maze and leave plenty of time to let imaginations run wild amongst characters in the storybook themed play area.

Every Tuesday in October from 2 to 3pm there are garden tours, which are free after normal admission charges apply.

Apple Days take place on October 18 and 19 from 11am to 4pm- find out about this historic fruit garden that is currently being restored, have a go at apple pressing, follow the trail, taste some of the delicious apples and join in apple-themed games.

Cliveden’s Hallowe’en Trail run from October 25 and 26, 10am to 5pm and October 27 to November 2, 10am to 3.30pm and children can enjoy outdoor activities on Wild Wednesday on October 29 11am to 3pm.

Don’t forget, Cliveden is open between Christmas and New Year - the estate closes for Christmas Day but the gardens and woodlands are open again from 26 to 31 December, 10am to 4pm.

For full details go to www.nationaltrust.org/cliveden.