After one of the hottest summers on record in 2025, the UK is now bracing for a potential deep freeze, according to an enduring piece of countryside folklore. The sudden shift from heat to autumn has been marked by a vibrant natural spectacle: trees across the nation are heavily laden with berries, a phenomenon traditionally seen as an omen of a severe winter ahead.
The Folklore Omen in Our Hedgerows
The old adage, familiar to many, states that 'a bounty of berries signals a harsh winter'. This year, hawthorn and rowan trees are particularly bursting with tiny red fruits, creating a striking display in both rural landscapes and urban parks. The sight has prompted renewed discussion about the predictive power of this ancient wisdom.
Farmers and nature observers have noted the unusual abundance. Bannisters Yorkshire Family Farm commented on the phenomenon, stating on their blog: "Our hawthorn hedges are absolutely laden with berries this year... if the tale is to be believed, it's certainly great news for wildlife." The observation echoes a similar event from over a decade ago.
Science Versus Superstition
While the folklore is compelling, naturalists and scientists have sought to explain the real reasons behind a prolific berry season. Experts, including those cited by Woodlands.co.uk, suggest that a profusion of berries is more likely a result of favourable past growing conditions than a prophecy of future weather.
The website, which investigated the topic during the last major berry year in 2010, pointed out: "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." In essence, a good berry crop reflects the weather that has already passed, not what is to come.
A Chilling Coincidence?
Despite the scientific explanation, the correlation between berry abundance and cold winters can be striking. The last notably good berry year was 2009, which was followed by the coldest winter in 30 years. The winter of 2010, which followed the berry-laden autumn investigated by Woodlands.co.uk, was also notably harsh.
With the UK already experiencing cold and severe conditions, some wonder if the natural world is offering a clue once more. The berries are particularly plump and abundant this year, mirroring the patterns seen before previous severe winters. Whether it is a reliable forecast or a fascinating coincidence, the spectacle provides a vital food source for wildlife, preparing them for the challenging months ahead regardless of the ultimate severity of the season.
