10 Autumnal adventures to enjoy in the area
We received a great response from the blog which we wrote back in the summer with ideas of what to do during the summer holidays with mini Headfudgers. So what we thought we'd do is put together a list of things to do locally now that the weather is on the change...
The nights have already started to draw in and the mornings and evenings have that Autumnal feel to them, with crisp, chilly starts to the day, dew covered grass and bonfire smells occasionally filling our nostrils as it is pretty much pitch black by 8pm!
Just because summer is on its way out, doesn’t mean you must stay in! I don’t know about you, but us Headfudgers love the beach and being outdoors just as much in the autumn and winter months as we do the summer! Ok, we miss the warmth from the sun on our skin and only donning our funky Headfudge tee’s during the cold months but hey, don’t you love snuggling up by the fire after a cold walk along the beach? Cosy!
So here's a list of ideas for you to enjoy either alone, as a couple, with family or as group of friends. There's something for everything so wrap up and read on!
A breezy walk along our local beaches –
We are lucky enough to have some pretty lovely beaches on our doorstep. Lepe and Calshot are both close by, both lovely in their own way! At Lepe you can enjoy a stroll along the cliff top, stopping off at the fantastic play park with the little ones. The play park has been recently renovated to include lots of wooden structures for the children to enjoy. The wooden frames of the equipment really lend themselves to the gorgeous surroundings of the beach – no nasty, brightly coloured metal frames obscuring and distracting our attention from the stunning views beyond the park, out to sea.
A walk on the wild side –
We are inundated with woodland to walk in here in The New Forest. One of our favourites here at Headfudge HQ is Deer Leap. Just off of the main road through Colbury lies this lovely forest walk. Make sure you pack your wellies as the track gets quite muddy - it’s perfect for little people to stomp in the puddles when it’s been raining!
Bike trails through Brockenhurst –
Here in the New Forest we are extremely lucky to be surrounded by over 100 miles of very well-maintained tracks through the forest, dedicated to cyclists. The mostly flat terrain is ideal for all ages to enjoy. If you don’t have your own gear, check out New Forest Cycle Hire on Brockenhurst’s’ website for hire, prices and recommended routes!
Fun at Snowtrax -
Snowtrax in Matchams near Bournemouth is a great family fun day out! They have a dry ski slope perfect for snowboarding and skiing. They also have a ski bobbing lane where children can fly down the slope and have great fun! And if you are lucky enough to get a sunny Autumn day, they have a fantastic outdoor play area, featuring a giant wooden pirate ship! Check out their website for more details and pricing - http://www.snowtrax.eu/
Tea & cake in Lyndhurst –
The picturesque village of village of Lyndhurst is the New Forest’s crown jewel (that’s our opinion, anyway!). With coffee shops a plenty, you will be spoilt for choice of somewhere to go to warm your cockles after a blustery winter walk. There are also some lovely shops to explore – our favourite being Onomatopoeia – this beautiful shop sells furniture, gifts and some stunning home ware. Be sure to pay a visit if you are having a mooch down the high street! There is also a cycle hire shop, some restaurants, pubs and some clothes shops – definitely worth a visit!
Nature Walk & Autumnal Treasure hunt with the children –
Wrap up warm and dig out the wellies – get outside and go for a nature walk. Take a bag and collect up some brightly coloured Autumn themed treasure – golden brown leaves, acorns and fir cones. Bring them home to make a paper collage with, whilst enjoying hot chocolate and cookies. The children will love the fresh air, the adventure of a ‘treasure hunt’ and the crafty element! And of course the cookies at the end of it!
Woodland Winter Warmer –
Feeling energetic? What about a day out at New Forest Activity Centre!
This experience promises to be a fantastic team building opportunity, which involves exploring the vital skills needed to thrive in a natural environment. With a hot drink and bacon roll on the day, this will provide you with the fuel needed for a challenging morning of team challenges and archery followed by an afternoon on the high ropes course!
You can find out more information on their website HERE >
Explore Exbury Gardens –
Exbury gardens is extremely famous for its Spring displays but it is also pretty breath-taking in the Autumn! The trees and shrubs change colour and then reflect on the ponds and lakes, making it a truly stunning sight. Exbury Garden also has a steam railway – the round trip takes 20 minutes and is great for all the family. There is an adventure playground and also a café so a perfect autumn day out!
The New Forest Walking Festival –
This popular festival runs from 14 to 29 October 2017 and features 80 guided walks led by knowledgeable local experts – they will help you to discover the history and heritage of the forest. Get your walking boots on and get out there – enjoy the fresh forest air and beautiful sights as the season changes in front of your eyes!
Check out the attached link which shows each which is planned and a description about each one –
Beaulieu National Motor Museum –
Beaulieu National Motor Museum is one of the UK’s to tourist attractions and it happens to be right around the corner from Headfudge HQ here in the forest!
The museum features over 250 vehicles on display, all with their own unique story behind them! There is a monorail, which is hugely popular with visitors, young and old! And also a replica London Bus! Beaulieu now features World of Top Gear – it showcases some of the cars from the show from some of Jeremy, Richard and James’ most famous and ambitious challenges! Your ticket will also grant you access to the beautiful Palace House which has been home to the Montagu family since 1538.
Perfect wet weather family day out!
So there you go. Plenty of ideas for you and your family to enjoy this autumn.
If you visit any of the places mentioned or have a go at some of the things we have suggested, don’t forget to take a picture and tag us either on Facebook or Instagram! We love seeing you embracing the freedom and getting out there...
