As the warmth of summer fades into cooler days, you’ll soon find leaves crunching underfoot, golden light streaming through the trees, and evenings best spent by a roaring fire.
Blending contemporary luxury with welcoming hospitality, Stanwell House is a boutique retreat in the heart of Lymington, offering the perfect setting for a half-term adventure with the family. Bursting with family-friendly touches and plenty of space for little adventurers, teenagers, and four-legged friends, it’s an idyllic base for a rewarding autumn getaway.
Take a look at what makes it such a special destination this season!
The Perfect Base for a Family Autumn Getaway
Set in coastal Lymington, Stanwell House is just steps away from the bustling quay, independent shops, and autumn markets. Its central location makes it ideally placed for adventures into the New Forest National Park, where ancient woodlands, open heathland and family-friendly trails are just waiting to be explored by little boots and adults alike.
After a long day of outdoor adventure, return to one of our beautifully styled bedrooms or suites. Families can choose from spacious family rooms, interconnecting options, or dog-friendly spaces so no one is left behind. Our welcoming team ensure that every guest, big or small, human or furry, feels right at home!
Discover more about travelling as a family or explore our range of family stays available.
Cosy Autumn Comforts
The moment you step inside, Stanwell House embraces you with the warmth of the season. Roaring log fires, soft lighting, and an easy-going atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for making autumn memories together. Seasonal décor and menus reflect the beauty of this time of year, making it easy to slow down and reconnect with the world around you.
Seasonal Dining
Food is at the heart of every stay at Stanwell House. At our Samphire Restaurant, our chefs showcase seasonal, local ingredients through menus that celebrate the best of the region.
- Daytime favourites: Tuck into comforting favourites like fish and chips, buttermilk chicken burgers, and hearty sandwiches.
- Evening indulgence: Bold flavours and sharing dishes, from a perfectly cooked chateaubriand for two, family-friendly sharing boards, or dishes featuring produce from land, sea, and our own kitchen garden.
- Set menus: Choose two or three courses featuring seasonal soups, fresh gnocchi with rosary ash goat’s cheese, or indulgent puddings like plum and ginger stem steamed sponge with vanilla custard.
Begin each day with a delicious breakfast spread of pastries, granola, smoothies, and full English classics. Sundays are made for traditional roasts with all the trimmings, served in style.
Looking for a sweet treat? Head to the Orangery for a sweet or savoury afternoon tea and perhaps a celebratory glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut.
Seasonal Sips
For adults, our Salt Bar is a cosy hub where you can relax while little ones (or pups!) can snooze nearby. Seasonal specials include pumpkin-inspired cocktails and warming tipples. Don’t miss Cocktail Hour, where you can enjoy two expertly crafted cocktails for £20, available Monday to Thursday from 5–7pm, and all day on Sundays.
Family Adventures in the New Forest
Thanks to our prime location, Stanwell House is the perfect launch pad for exploring the New Forest and beyond. Whether your family loves nature walks, cycling trails, creative workshops, or historical landmarks, your half-term adventure awaits!
Autumn Walks
The New Forest is renowned for its iconic woodlands and trails. Take the family on a crisp morning stroll or an adventurous ramble for avid explorers. Choose from a variety of walking routes, some ideal for buggies and little boots, others that are more challenging for teens. From the idyllic Burley Village circular walk, scenic Lymington Marshes route or one of the five historic routes, such as Rockford Common, enjoy areas rich in wildlife, open heathland and local livestock for all ages to enjoy.
The New Forest’s trails are rich in wildlife, open heaths, and seasonal colours. Families can enjoy relaxing routes perfect for little legs or longer rambles for keen explorers. From the Lymington Marshes or one of the five historic routes, such as Rockford Common, each trail promises something new. Look out for ponies, donkeys, and local wildlife along the way.
Family Cycling Tours
The New Forest is renowned for its iconic woodlands and trails. Take the family on a crisp morning stroll or an adventurous ramble for avid explorers. Choose from a variety of walking routes, some ideal for buggies and little boots, others that are more challenging for teens. From the idyllic Burley Village circular walk, scenic Lymington Marshes route or one of the five historic routes, such as Rockford Common, enjoy areas rich in wildlife, open heathland and local livestock for all ages to enjoy.
The New Forest’s trails are rich in wildlife, open heaths, and seasonal colours. Families can enjoy relaxing routes perfect for little legs or longer rambles for keen explorers. From the Lymington Marshes or one of the five historic routes, such as Rockford Common, each trail promises something new. Look out for ponies, donkeys, and local wildlife along the way.
Day Trips
For something a little different, hop on the ferry for a family day trip to the Isle of Wight. Kids will love the journey (complete with onboard play areas), while parents can soak up sea views. Once there, enjoy sandy beaches, coastal walks, historic sites, and colourful local culture.
History & Cultural Highlights
Autumn lends itself to slower-paced exploration. Visit St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery for hands-on exhibits, spend a day at Beaulieu – National Motor Museum or walk out to Hurst Castle to discover its magnificent history. Alternatively, head a little further afield to Highcliffe Castle, which combines history with its stunning autumn gardens.
Seasonal Events
Half-term wouldn’t be complete without some autumn magic. This October, families can join a printmaking workshop at Stanwell House, inspired by the textures and colours of the season. Warm up with hot chocolate to start the day and enjoy a cream tea afterwards.
Across the region, pumpkin picking, Halloween trails, and even ghost walks bring the season to life. The Haunted New Forest “Tales & Ghosts Walk” combines folklore, history, and spooky fun for older children and teens.
Need more ideas? Explore things to do in the New Forest in autumn
Dog-Friendly Autumn Escapes
At Stanwell House, dogs are more than welcome. With dog-friendly rooms, treats on arrival, and plenty of local walking trails, your four-legged friend can be part of the adventure.
The New Forest offers over 120 miles of scenic, dog-friendly walks, from the Buckland Rings Trail through Roydon Woods Nature Reserve, to the 8.5-mile Lyndhurst Parish Walk, dotted with cosy pubs where the whole family (dogs included) can stop to refuel.
In Lymington, you’ll also find pet-friendly cafés and attractions, making it easy to keep tails wagging.
When the weather turns, retreat to the Salt Bar, where dogs are welcome, and families can tuck into warming soups, sharing platters, and seasonal bar favourites.
Charming Evenings at Stanwell House
After a day of exploring, evenings at Stanwell House are all about connection and comfort. Families can retreat to spacious Family Suites with bunk beds and cosy dens or enjoy the flexibility of interconnecting rooms and sofa beds for larger groups. Travel cots and extra beds are also available.
Back downstairs, evenings come alive with board games by the fire, hot chocolates for the kids, and seasonal cocktails for parents. Dinner is relaxed, providing a chance to gather and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Your Autumn Escape Awaits
With its matchless location, warm hospitality, and focus on families, Stanwell House is the ultimate half-term getaway. Bring together outdoor adventure with cosy evenings, indulge in seasonal food and drink, and make memories that last long after you return home.
This October, escape to the New Forest and embrace autumn in all its glory. From Halloween fun and pumpkin treats to log fires and Sunday roasts, Stanwell House has everything you need for the perfect family retreat!
Book your stay today and discover why we’re Lymington’s favourite boutique escape for families, couples, and dogs alike.
