As the days get shorter, the leaves start to fall and the schools close for October half-term, it’s the perfect time to book an autumn family escape in one of our luxury forest lodges. Here’s our guide to eight of the best things to do locally with the kids, before enjoying a well-earned dip in the hot tub…
Hit the beach
October might not be ideal for sunbathing, but Dorset’s Jurassic Coast is wild, windswept and blissfully crowd-free at this time of year. Hire one of our bikes to enjoy a ride out to Studland Bay or hop in the car and make a beeline for the golden sands of Swanage and Sandbanks. For an afternoon spent treasure hunting in tidal rock pools, try Kimmeridge Bay or walk down to view the stunning Old Harry Rocks for their iconic chalk stacks.
Follow an autumn forest trail
Located within the Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve, Burnbake has 20 acres of woodland to explore – and as the leaves burst into autumnal colour, from fiery reds to radiant golds, it’s a special time of year to enjoy a scenic walk among the trees. With its towering sea cliffs, rolling hills, dunes and sandy beaches, the Isle of Purbeck also has a huge variety of landscapes and awe-inspiring views along its 37 miles of paths and bridleways. The only question is where to start first.
Explore 1,000 years of history at Corfe Castle
Crowning a hill above the picturesque village that has grown up in its shadow, Corfe Castle is one of Britain’s most iconic Civil War survivors, with its ruined walls sheltering over 1,000 years history as both a royal palace and fortress. Today, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon spotting ‘murder holes’ and arrow slits or admiring the breathtaking views across Purbeck. The October half-term holiday will see the return of the popular Teddy Bear zip wire, along with a new family quest, but make sure you leave enough time for a hot chocolate in the 18th-century Village Tea-room.
Escape to Brownsea Island
Rising out of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is just a short boat ride from the mainland but feels like it could be a world away. With a selection of free trails crisscrossing the island, an adventure playground and a choice of secluded picnic spots offering spectacular views across to the Purbeck Hills, there’s something for every generation. While exploring, don’t forget to look out for the island’s rare red squirrels busy hoarding their food for the winter.
Carve a Halloween pumpkin at The Blue Pool
This October half-term, things are getting a little bit creepy at The Blue Pool Nature Reserve & Tearooms, where you can head down to their pumpkin patch to carve your very own Halloween pumpkin. There will also be a Spooky Trail to follow, as well as face painting and bat box building. Normal admission fees to The Blue Pool apply (£7.50 for adults and £3.75 for children), plus it’s an extra £5 per person for pumpkin carving.
Watch the sun set at Durdle Door
Lulworth Cove, with its iconic natural rock archway, Durdle Door, is one of the most photographed places on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. In autumn, the crowds dwindle, offering the tantalising possibility of getting it all to yourself. Head here on a sunny afternoon to visit the attractive and historic villages and beaches of East Lulworth and West Lulworth, before timing your visit to Durdle Door to take a family selfie as the sun dips below the horizon.
Get on board the Swanage Halloween Ghost Train
Swanage’s heritage steam railway offers the chance to take a ride through history on a line that runs right through the heart of the Isle of Purbeck. If you’re feeling brave enough, why not book a ticket on their fang-tastic Halloween Ghost Train, running throughout October half-term, with family-friendly frights for all ages. These spookily decorated trains start at Norden Station, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly witch, who’ll enchant you with spine-tingling stories as you travel. Fancy dress is encouraged – and that includes grown-ups too!
Take a wildlife safari
October is a fantastic time to spot wildlife in and around Burnbake, with hundreds of species of birds, including the internationally protected nightjar and Dartford warbler, along with squirrels, hares and Sika and Roe deer. Just a short drive away is RSPB Arne – a former host of the BBC’s Autumnwatch and Winterwatch programmes –where you can spot migratory birds, including spoonbills, black-tailed godwits, hen harriers and dark-bellied brent geese. Alternatively, if you want an expert introduction to the local flora and fauna, it’s also possible to book a guided 4×4 tour with Purbeck Safari.
So if you haven’t got any plans for October half term, why not book your stay at Burnbake and come enjoy the best autumn activities that Purbeck has to offer.
