Here are our top picks for cosy season with the kids.
Autumn/Winter Family Activities Across The UK
Date
21 / 10/ 2022
Category
Family experiences
The leaves are crunching, the trees are shining golden in the sun, there is a chill in the air, and the woolly hats are back out of storage. That’s right folks, cosy season is upon us. And with cosy season comes many of the best events of the year (and no, we don’t mean the run-up to Christmas. Although we are super excited for that too. Actually, is it too early to get the tinsel out?).
We’re of course talking about October half term, Halloween, and bonfire night! All of which are perfect excuses for beautiful cosy getaways with the whole family. Whether you’re a brisk walk on the coast of Cornwall or a crispy leaves and jumping in puddles in the New Forest kind of family, we’ve got you covered.
One of our favourite things about our collection of hotels across the country is the access our guests have to some of the best activities in the UK for all ages (and plenty of pooch-friendly adventures too!).
Here are our top picks for cosy season with the kids (aka October half term) near each of our beautiful luxury family hotels.
Our favourite Autumn activities near each of our luxury family hotels in the UK
Moonfleet Manor in Dorset
October half term at Corfe Castle
There’s so much to do for folks of all ages at Corfe Castle from 22nd - 30th October. Bring a teddy (or borrow one of theirs) for a teddy bear zip line. Get involved in the Secrets of the Sappers family quest (includes clues and a treasure hunt), and take part in in their medieval dress up.
Lyme Regis Fireworks and Bonfire
Grab your winter coats, ear muffs, and sparklers - it’s time for bonfire night! And what better place to celebrate the 5th of November than the absolutely stunning Lyme Regis. Lyme’s famous annual fireworks and bonfire night are the pride of Dorset, with an impressive display sure to keep everyone entertained and amazed.
Doors open at 6.30pm and the event is free to attend, with optional donations on the door.
Christmas Lights at Kingston Lacy
Experience the first wonders of Christmas in the beautiful surroundings of Kingston Lacy. Wander through more than 1 million twinkling lights along tree-lined lanes throughout the beautiful grounds. Tickets are available on the National Trust website.
Explore the enchanted outdoor winter gardens at Abbotsbury this winter. Available from November 25th 2022 - January 8th 2023, this wander through 18th-century subtropical gardens is a wonderful way to spend a winter's evening. The illuminations are truly spectacular. And what’s more, it’s dog friendly (as long as they’re on a lead).
Woolley Grange in Wiltshire
This winter, step into the wondrous worlds of Roald Dahl in this year’s Festival of Light at Longleat Safari Park. With an extra special Santa train, an enchanted Christmas tree show (this tree sings, by the way. It’s amazing), and an incredible winter safari drive through, this is an occasion not to be missed.
Nothing gets us in the festive spirit quite like the sights and smells of a Christmas market. And trust us, Bath has some of the best Christmas markets in the country. And this year is the 20th anniversary, so it’s sure to be extra special. The markets are open from 24th November - 11th December.
Bradford on Avon Fireworks Display
Remember, remember, the 5th of November. One of the best British traditions (and always a great family night out) is the annual fireworks display. And this one is super local to our lovely Woolley Grange over in Bradford on Avon. Entry is free and there are plenty of food and drink options available on-site, including mulled cider, hot dogs, and hot chocolate. Taking place, of course, on 5th November.
The Ickworth in Suffolk
First up, right on our doorstep is the Ickworth Magical Light Trail. Wander through as the trees and architecture are illuminated in technicolour lights. Open 7 days a week, this incredible light show makes the perfect evening out for all the family - just be sure to wrap up warm!
Jimmy’s Farm (as seen on TV), has a huge range of activities ideal for guests of all ages. Get up close and personal with lemurs, meerkats, camels, reptiles, and more. Run around in the adventure park. Explore beautiful woodlands. And eat delicious food sourced straight from the farm itself.
Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market
For a couple of days only (Nov 24th - 26th), the Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market is back. Hosted in the beautiful St Edmundsbury Cathedral, 40 stallholders from across Suffolk provide excellent gift ideas and inspiration, covering everything from baked goods to jewellery.
New Park Manor in New Forest
From the 13th - 31st October, Paultons Park is fully embracing Halloween. They have a whole range of events, including a spooky Peppa Pig makeover, rides in the dark, and an all-singing all-dancing extravaganza. There is something for everyone during spooky season at Paultons Park.
New Forest Walking and Cycling Festival
Now in its 10th year, the New Forest Walking and Cycling Festival takes place from 15th October to 6th November. A great chance to wander the great outdoors, soak up the beautiful autumn landscapes, and crunch along the tree-lined paths. Maybe even wander off the beaten track a little. Pack your wellies or rent a bike. The perfect family day out.
From the 9th - 11th December, the Beaulieu Festive Fayre is an unmissable day for the whole family. Browse the stalls of over 70 local artisanal producers and brands, showcasing everything from candles and chocolates to silver jewellery and hand-crafted pottery. On top of this, there’s plenty of delicious food and drink, and some top-notch live music.
Fowey Hall in Cornwall
Autumn/Winter at the Eden Project
The Eden Project goes all out for the cosy, spooky, and festive seasons so we couldn’t pick just one. From “Halloweden” through to Cornwall’s biggest Christmas market, there is so much to see and do over the coming months for all the family. Not to mention just taking a moment to appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the Eden Project itself.
Dazzling lanterns, beautiful floats, and thousands of gorgeous lights await in the heart of Truro’s Christmas festivities. Plenty of delicious food and drink are also available. With displays from local artists, volunteers, schools, and more, it’s a fascinating peek into Cornish festive culture and a great evening out. The festival runs from mid-November to early January.
Ever dined in an igloo? Now is your chance. We are thrilled to have our winter pods back for another magical festive period here at Fowey Hall. Enjoy a delicious lunch, decadent afternoon tea, our tuck into our seasonal evening dining menu. And browse our cocktail menu for a little extra treat.
Available from 16th November 2022 - 23rd February 2023. Booking available now.
Enjoy the festivities with the whole family
No matter where you’re staying for cosy season, spooky season, or the festive season, we cannot wait to welcome you (and your four-legged friends) at Luxury Family Hotels. We hope this has provided you with the perfect inspiration for your Autumn/Winter break. And if you have any questions, we’re only a click or a call away.