October has arrived, bringing with it crisp mornings, colourful leaves, shorter days and plenty of reasons to get out and explore, minus the unseasonably scorching sun! Whilst Winchester is lovingly known for its summer days spent exploring, autumn brings a new list of things to see and do.
We've put together ten things you might not have thought about doing during an October visit to Winchester…just the tip of the autumnal iceberg!
1. In search of autumn colours
October is one of the best times to explore Hampshire's countryside, as the landscape begins its annual transformation. Why not out for a walk around St Catherine's Hill, along the River Itchen or further into the South Downs and keep an eye out for those particularly spectacular pockets of autumn colour. In certain spots, when the wind blows it feels like you are in a leafy snow globe.
For photographers and nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to see Winchester in all its russet glory and capture the varying hues.
2. Visit a farm shop and cook up an autumn feast
October is harvesting season, so it's the perfect time to make the most of our local produce. Browse a nearby farm shop or farmers' market for seasonal vegetables, apples, pumpkins, local cheeses, breads and homemade treats, then bring everything back to your lodge.
With a fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, you could turn your haul into anything from a hearty roast to a simple supper – perhaps with a little local cheese and something sweet afterwards.
3. Explore Winchester when the weather isn't playing ball
Not every October day is going to be made for walking and that's no bad thing. Winchester has plenty to discover indoors, from the Cathedral and museums to independent shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants.
In fact, a rainy afternoon can be a very good excuse to relax and explore somewhere you've perhaps walked straight past during previous sunny visits.
4. Take an evening stroll through historic Winchester
As the evening draws in and you've finished dinner, why not wrap up warm and head into the city for a wander.
The historic streets and ancient buildings look particularly atmospheric after dark, and you might even discover a few corners of the city you didn’t even know existed.
5. Make a Halloween-inspired day of it
October wouldn't be complete without a little Halloween fun. Winchester's long history of pagan beginnings provides plenty of opportunity for spooky stories and things that go bump in the night.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly half-term activities or simply fancy exploring Winchester’s paths less trod, October is the perfect excuse to discover the city's slightly more mysterious side.
6. Make the most of an autumn afternoon outdoors
October is not, in fact, time to batten down the hatches, not just yet. There are often plenty of bright, sunny days to enjoy, and cooler temperatures can actually make longer walks much more comfortable.
Perhaps pack a flask of hot chocolate, pull on your walking boots and head out into the countryside.
7. Seek out something seasonal to eat
Autumn brings a whole new menu to Hampshire. From local produce and freshly baked treats to warming pub lunches and autumn-inspired menus, October is a particularly good month for food lovers. We are always happy to recommend restaurants and cosy pubs to our guests; The Wykeham Arms, for instance, or The Bishop on the Bridge (which happens to be dog friendly by the way)
8. Take a day trip beyond Winchester
One of the joys of staying with us in South Winchester Lodges is having so much of Hampshire within easy reach. If you've got a spare day, you could head out to explore a nearby village or even visit the coast in search of that perfect pebble.
You don't have to plan every minute of your stay. Sometimes choosing a direction and seeing where you end up makes the best memories.
9. Embrace the darker evenings back at your lodge
After a day of exploring, there's something rather satisfying about returning to your luxury lodge. Cook dinner, put the kettle on, settle in with a board game or a good book and enjoy having nowhere else you need to be, (our lodges are rather comfy if we do say so ourselves).
10. Do absolutely nothing for an afternoon
And finally, our most important suggestion: although it’s great to know what your options are, this is perhaps one of those breaks when its ok to leave the itinerary at home.
So why not enjoy a slow breakfast on your private balcony, sit outside with a coffee, watch the world go by and decide what you'd like to do when you're ready. You might head into Winchester, go for a walk or simply stay put.
Whatever you decide, we can’t wait to welcome you! Click here to book today!