The British Coast: the perfect autumn break?
Despite the damp and drizzly weather that showers Britain almost daily, a weekend away at the coast in autumn can be as just a memorable break as a beach trip in August; even better without the task of searching for an isolated spot of sand to set up camp.
An autumnal beach trip allows for miles of tranquil emptiness, with the only sound echoing from the crash of the waves and the whistle of the wind.
Burnbake Forest Lodges, in Wareham, Dorset, offer guests a scenic stay at Britain’s homely coast. Boasting a woodland setting, just a short drive from the sea and historical ruins of Corfe Castle, their lodges provide a warmth and cosiness that can only come with a wintery weekend away.
In each three or four bed lodge, guests are welcomed with a decadent hamper of milk, eggs and bacon. The large fully-equipped kitchen accommodates any culinary desires, whilst crackling from the lounge, a wood burner stands proud, filling the lodge with a beautiful warmth and indulgent dry wooden scent.
Fluffy white robes await a trip to the personal hot tub on the outside decking. There is room enough for each guest to relax and soak in the hot water, bask in the tranquillity of the woodland views and breathe in the teasing smell of the sea. It is hard to resent the cold and rainy British winters when you are nestled in a sumptuous hot tub, secluded in the depths of the Dorset coastline.
Christine Wyburgh, General Manager at Burnbake, prides herself on the appealing facilities that the site offers. “Burnbake has the extra attraction of being in a forest setting, with all the changing colours on the leaves and of course, the bubbling hot tubs out on the deckings.”
Staying on site allows for both a relaxed content, as well as the chance to explore the picturesque surrounding forests. The site is set for a peaceful walk through wooded areas, framed by green trees hung low with chestnuts and home to much wildlife; squirrels, robins and hares among them.
Off site, the local area exudes a happy, seaside atmosphere. Swanage hosts a traditional British beach town; fish and chip shops galore, blinding amusement arcades and unique shops filled with treasures. Similarly, a short journey through the winding country lanes lined with ferns, takes you to Studland Bay. The Bay encloses an attractive sandy beach with rocky cliffs and many quaint beach huts in an array of colour.
“Dorset is a great autumn destination with a gentle climate, rural windswept beaches and lots of places of interest to visit,” said Christine.
Lydia Faulkner, 45, adores the Dorset coast for a getaway in autumn. “It is nice to be in the country as it is quiet and very relaxing. We enjoy the sea air that we do not get at home and it is good for the children to be outside in the winter. We have been on lots of lovely bike rides and coastal walks.”
Leaving your Burnbake Lodge for the day, wrapped up in a thick scarf, oversized jacket and knee-high Wellington boots, it is easy to get lost in a relaxed, dazed wander across the sand; watching the rhythmic waves greet the land and crossing paths with other walkers, perhaps throwing a ball for their dog or just enjoying the fresh air.
There is a glorious sense of gratitude and satisfaction that comes with visiting a beach location in the autumn, as well as a clarification that you do not need to go abroad to appreciate such a break from the norms of life. Paired with a stay at Burnbake Forest Lodges, it seems that the cold and windy British autumn days are a lifetime away.
Weekend breaks for the coming autumn/winter season (2017) start at £400. Visit http://burnbakelodges.com for more information.
