'Cold harsh winter' ahead after common September sight we've all seen

The summer of 2025 was one of the hottest on record, according to weather experts. However, it seemed as though autumn arrived overnight, with temperatures dropping significantly and trees beginning to display their autumnal hues.

Yet, this autumn, some people have noticed something that could indicate a 'cold harsh winter' is on its way at the end of this year.

Old folklore suggests a sign many have recently observed could herald frosty days ahead - whether you're in a city or the countryside, the more eagle-eyed among us will have spotted this vibrant spectacle.

Following the UK's hot summer months, trees of all types are brimming with berries, with Hawthorn and Rowan trees heavily laden with small red fruits. An old adage states that 'an abundance of berries is a sign of a cold winter to come'.

Nature experts have delved into the science behind this claim from old folklore, revealing whether there's any truth to it. Most conclude that an abundance of berries likely indicates favourable growing conditions rather than forecasting the winter ahead, reports the Mirror.

Woodlands.co.uk investigated this phenomenon the last time it happened (2010), reporting 'our holly trees were full with their bright red berries, and that according to folklore this was a sign that a hard winter was to come'.

The Woodlands.co.uk website added: "There is no clear logic to this, as it is the spring weather that determines whether there are insects around for the flowers to be pollinated, plus sun and warmth in early autumn to help the berries to ripen.

"The berries are particularly plump and abundant this year. The last 'good berry' year was last year (2009) and the winter that followed was the coldest for some 30 years.

"Already, we are experiencing cold and severe weather conditions (back in 2010 when it was a harsh winter) so perhaps the berries are 'right' again."

Only time will reveal whether the berries will signal a harsh winter for 2025, though birds and wildlife will undoubtedly welcome the feast available in hedgerows, urban park trees and street plantings.

The Bannisters Yorkshire Family farm posted on their blog: "There's an old wives tale which says that an abundance of berries in the hedgerows is a sign of a cold winter to come. Well if that's the case, we're heading for a very cold one.

"Our hawthorn hedges are absolutely laden with berries this year and whilst that might not be good news amongst those who prefer a milder climate, if the tale is to be believed, it's certainly great news for wildlife."