When the summer holiday rush comes to an end, a special kind of magic arrives in the New Forest.
The days become a little calmer, the air a little crisper and the landscape slowly transforms as greens give way to shades of gold, copper and red. Autumn is a wonderful time to slow down, explore and experience a more peaceful side of this beautiful part of the South Coast.
And nestled between the New Forest and the coast, Shorefield Country Park is the perfect place to make the most of it.
Watch the seasons change
September brings that lovely in-between feeling – summer hasn't quite disappeared, but the first signs of autumn are beginning to appear.
As the weeks pass, the New Forest gradually transforms. Leaves turn golden, bracken takes on rich autumn shades, and the softer seasonal light makes woodland walks feel even more magical.
With the busy school holidays behind us, it's the perfect time to explore at your own pace. Wander beneath the trees, discover open heathland and traditional villages, sample delicious local produce or find sanctuary in a cosy country pub after a day of exploring.
And if you're bringing your four-legged friend along, autumn is an especially lovely time to enjoy the New Forest together. With miles of woodland, heathland and peaceful paths to discover, there are plenty of opportunities for excellent dog walks and adventures in the fresh autumn air. Just keep an eye out for the famous New Forest ponies, cattle and donkeys roaming freely along the way, and remember to follow local guidance around livestock and wildlife.
Your cosy autumn retreat
After a day spent exploring, there's nothing better than having somewhere cosy to come back to.
At Shorefield Country Park, there's a great choice of self-catering accommodation to make your own, from comfortable caravans and spacious lodges to luxury hot tub stays. If you're getting everyone together, our large holiday houses sleep up to 14 people, giving family and friends plenty of space for a big group getaway too.
And if there's one time of year to treat yourself to a private hot tub, surely, it's autumn? As the evenings get cooler, slip into the warm bubbles, breathe in the crisp evening air and relax after a day of walking, exploring and taking in the changing scenery. There's something about a hot tub holiday that feels even more indulgent when it's chilly outside!
For something a little out of the ordinary, our unique luxury treehouses are tucked away amongst the trees, giving you the chance to stay surrounded by the very landscape you've come to explore. Complete with their own private hot tubs, they're a magical choice for a special autumn escape.
Whether it's a cosy caravan break, a luxury lodge, a hot tub getaway, a big weekend away with the whole group or a stay amongst the trees, spend your days exploring the forest and coast before heading back to Shorefield, getting cosy and settling in for a relaxing evening.
Forest in one direction, coast in the other
One of the best things about staying at Shorefield Country Park is having two incredible landscapes on your doorstep.
Head inland and spend the day exploring the New Forest or make your way towards Milford on Sea for a peaceful autumn walk along the coast.
With the summer crowds gone, there's something wonderful about wrapping up and heading to the beach for some fresh sea air. Wander along the shoreline, take in views across the Solent towards the Isle of Wight and The Needles, then find somewhere cosy for a drink or bite to eat.
Slow down this autumn
Autumn breaks aren't about squeezing as much as possible into every day.
They're about long walks beneath changing leaves, leisurely pub lunches, discovering somewhere new and returning to a cosy holiday home at the end of it all.
Whether you're escaping for a romantic weekend, spending time with family or simply craving a few peaceful days away, September and October are the perfect opportunity to experience another side of the New Forest.
So, as summer fades and the forest begins to turn golden, escape the crowds, embrace the changing seasons and make Shorefield Country Park your home for an unforgettable autumn break.
Ready to start planning your autumn getaway? Make sure you check out our latest special offers before you book: https://sfhols.com/holidayoffers