Autumn is one of the best times of year to enjoy a camping, caravan or glamping holiday in Dorset. The scenery looks spectacular as the trees change colour and there are fewer people at popular attractions, so you’ll have the freedom to explore in peace.

At South Lytchett Manor we open until early January, so there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy an off-peak break. From our convenient location near Poole, you can enjoy the Jurassic Coast in all its glory as well as pretty towns and villages throughout the Dorset countryside.

There really is so much to see and do in Dorset during autumn, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding how to spend your days. Here we list just some of the reasons to visit during September, October or November to inspire you to pay us a visit at quieter times of year.

1.    Mild weather

In recent years September has been unseasonably warm. Indian Summers are becoming more common and visitors are able to enjoy beach days for more of the year. Even later in the season, the temperatures are still mild and perfect for long hikes or cycle rides.

2.    Low season tariff

In September we switch to our low season tariff, so you can make the most of our discounted rates. Enjoy savings across our range of accommodation, including shepherds’ huts, Romany caravans, glamping pods, touring and camping pitches. With more money to spare you can treat yourself to some fantastic meals and an extra special day out. Or, you could put the money towards staying for a couple of extra nights!

3.    October half term

South Lytchett Manor is the perfect destination for a family getaway during October half term. Children will love playing in our on-site playground and making friends with other kids on the park. We have cycle hire facilities available if you want to venture further afield.

There are plenty of family friendly attractions nearby for fun-filled days out, including Upton Country Park, Farmer Palmers and Adventure Wonderland. If rain does make an unwelcome appearance there’s no need to worry – there are lots of wet weather attractions too. We highly recommend taking younger members of the family to Bournemouth Oceanarium, Splashdown or Lemur Landings.

4.    Fantastic events

Dorset plays host to a number of fantastic events during the autumn months. Many family friendly attractions hold themed events for Halloween and we even run a pumpkin carving competition on-site. There are some excellent firework displays in the local area for guests wanting a special bonfire night. We highly recommend heading to Poole Quay to watch the impressive display over the water.

5.    Fewer crowds

Dorset is one of the top staycation destinations in the UK, so it’s not surprising that it gets incredibly busy during the summer. The autumn months are much quieter in comparison, so you’ll be able to explore the best loved sights with ease. You won’t need to worry about crowds at iconic beauty spots such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove and there will be less cars on the road.

6.    Incredible wildlife

Autumn is one of our favourite times to go wildlife watching in Dorset. There is so much to see at this time of year, you’re in for a real treat. We think Arne Nature Reserve is one of the best places to go. The RSPB site occupies an idyllic location on the edge of Poole Harbour and has a network of woodland trails to explore.

There are hides dotted along the shoreline offering the chance to see many species of migrating birds as they head south in search of warmer climes. Rutting takes place throughout October and November so you may be lucky to see sika deer.

7.    Warm and cosy accommodation

There’s something quite romantic about holidaying in the autumn, especially when you have warm and cosy accommodation to return to at the end of the day. Spend your days exploring the local area before heading back to the park for a relaxing night in.

All of our self-catering glamping accommodation has been furnished to a high standard and is kept toasty and warm throughout the autumn and winter months. Our Romany caravans have an electric heater and our camping pods and shepherds’ huts have underfloor heating.

If you’re staying in your own caravan or campervan you won’t have to worry about catching a chill during late night trips to the loo. Our award-winning amenities blocks have central heating, so they’re warm even on the coldest nights!

8.    Dog friendly beaches

From the start of October, restrictions are lifted and most local beaches become dog friendly. This means you’ll have plenty of choice when deciding where to go with your four-legged friend. They’ll love having the freedom to run and play in the sea before returning to the park for a quick wash in our dedicated dog shower!

9.    Dramatic scenery

The countryside surrounding our park is a photographers dream during the autumn months. The landscape turns shades of orange, red and brown and the rugged coastline looks even more dramatic as the waves crash along the ancient cliffs.

Autumn is one of our favourite times to get out, explore and take in the magnificent scenery. There’s something very special about Dorset at this time of year.

10. Spectacular skies

Dorset is a popular with visitors interested in stargazing thanks to the dark skies, lack of light pollution and abundance of open spaces. The long autumn nights are the ideal time to head out into the darkness with hopes observing the skies above. Durlston Country Park in nearby Swanage has an Astronomy Centre with a 14” Meade telescope. Throughout the year they host a number of talks in conjunction with the local Astronomical Society for those wanting to know more.

South Lytchett Manor is perfectly placed to enjoy an autumn or winter holiday in Dorset. Our multi-award winning park is located close to Poole, Bournemouth and Swanage and within easy reach of a host of things to see and do. The spacious grounds boast a range of self-catering options, including camping and touring pitches as well as glamping accommodation.