As the nights draw in, it can be easy to just curl up on the sofa and wait for winter to arrive. However, autumn is one of the best times of year to explore the great outdoors, and Dorset provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy some fresh air, beautiful scenery and seasonal activities.
So, instead of just staying inside watching Netflix or playing your favourite online casino games on your mobile phone, why not get out and see what this beautiful county has to offer?
From scenic walks and historic attractions to autumn markets and unusual events, here are five ways to make the most of Dorset this autumn.
1. Take A Ride On The Swanage Railway
A ride on the Swanage Railway is a great way to experience the Dorset countryside without having to spend the entire day walking. The heritage steam railway runs through the Isle of Purbeck between Norden and Swanage, passing through attractive countryside with views towards Corfe Castle along the way.
Autumn can be an especially atmospheric time to make the journey, with steam drifting across the landscape and the changing colours of the trees providing a seasonal backdrop. The route passes through woodland, open countryside and the village of Corfe Castle, making it a relaxing way to see a different side of Purbeck.
The railway also provides opportunities to explore Corfe Castle and Swanage at either end of the journey, allowing visitors to turn a steam train ride into a full autumn day out.
3. Walk Up Gold Hill In Shaftesbury
Few Dorset walks are as instantly recognisable as Gold Hill in Shaftesbury. The steep cobbled street is famous for its attractive old cottages and was famously featured in the iconic Hovis advert.
Walking up Gold Hill might be a short activity, but the views from the top make the climb worthwhile. Autumn adds another dimension to the experience, with the surrounding countryside taking on its seasonal colours.
Once you have reached the top, Shaftesbury itself is well worth exploring. Visitors can wander through the town, discover its historic streets and stop for a drink or something to eat before continuing their autumn adventure. Unfortunately, however, it’s a bit late in the year for the Shaftesbury Food Festival, which took place in April.
Autumn is a great time to visit an outdoor market, and Sherborne Market offers an opportunity to combine shopping with exploring one of Dorset’s most attractive towns.
Markets can be particularly enjoyable during the autumn months, when seasonal produce, local food and handmade goods provide plenty of reasons to browse the stalls. Sherborne’s historic setting also makes it an enjoyable place to spend time outdoors before or after visiting the market.
Take the opportunity to explore the town’s historic streets and architecture while you are there, making the market part of a wider autumn day out in Sherborne.
5. Explore Dorset’s Autumn Countryside
Sometimes the best way to enjoy the great outdoors is simply to put on a pair of walking boots and explore. Dorset has no shortage of countryside, with rolling hills, woodland, coastal paths and picturesque villages providing plenty of options for an autumn walk.
The cooler temperatures can make walking more comfortable than during the height of summer, while the changing colours of the trees and hedgerows create some spectacular scenery.
Whether you opt for a short stroll close to one of Dorset’s towns or tackle a longer countryside route, autumn provides a great excuse to get outside and enjoy everything the county has to offer.
