Best activities in Dorset this autumn
Summer days are coming to an end, the evenings are getting darker sooner and the all-inclusive abroad holidays have come and gone. But it doesn’t all need to be doom and gloom! We want to raise your spirits and show you just how fun and action-packed Dorset can be this time of year. Plan your autumn getaway today and experience everything Dorset has to offer in the cooler months of the year.
Watersports
Dorset’s Coastline is one of the most stunning in the UK and needs to be explored to be truly appreciated. With gorgeous golden sandy beaches and the clear blue sea right on your doorstep, why not get up close to the action and try out some watersports?
The local area is filled with an abundance of outdoor, water-based adventure companies offering equipment hire, private or group lessons and even guided tours. There are a plethora of watersports for you to try meaning no matter your age or ability, you can get out on the water and take in the ocean breeze.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding is the latest craze – using a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to cruise along the calm coastline and rivers. This sport requires concentration and balance to keep you on the water instead of under it! Depending on your ability and confidence, you can either opt to do this sitting, kneeling or standing. Use a paddle to push yourself along, enjoying gentle exercise whilst you take in the views.
If you don’t have your own paddleboards, you can rent them from various local companies including Poole Harbour Watersports based in Sandbanks for £15pp. They also offer a one-hour Beginners Paddleboarding Course for £25pp to help you learn essential skills and build your confidence to explore independently. If this isn’t your first time and you are a more confident paddleboarder, you can sign up for a Harbour SUP Tour for £35. This two-hour-long adventure will guide you on a route of your choosing. Choose from the harbour views at Blue Lagoon or Whiteley Lake where you can appreciate the sights of Sandbanks from the water.
Best paddlingboarding locations – Try Studland South Beach and Sandbanks Whiteley Lake. Stay nearby at Windward and Sandy Shores in Sandbanks, where you can hop on the Sandbanks Ferry to Studland in just four minutes!
Kayaking
Established some 5000 years ago by the Inuit and Aleut tribes native to Arctic North America, this popular watersport is now thoroughly global and can either be enjoyed solo in a single kayak, or with a friend in a double.
Looking to rent a kayak? The Watersports Academy, based in Sandbanks on the shores of Poole Harbour, is one of the largest activity centres on the south coast. They offer single kayak hire at £15 an hour or doubles for £20 per hour. This includes hire of the kayak, paddle/s and lifejacket/s. Explore Poole Harbour’s shallow waters safely – no previous experience needed! The Watersports Academy also offers instructor-led tours including their two-hour Kayak Harbour Tour. For £35pp, you can explore the harbour, Sandbanks peninsula and Brownsea Island (weather permitting).
Take to the water at – Poole Harbour and Old Harry Rocks. Stay nearby at Harbours Edge in Poole Quay and Seas the Day in Hamworthy, or take a leisurely drive to Studland and from there, paddle out to Old Harry Rocks.
Canoeing
Whether you’re looking to test your upper body strength or just plan a leisurely paddle downstream, canoeing is the perfect sport to help you explore Dorset’s stunning rivers. With more space than a kayak, why not pack a spot of lunch and plan a route where you can stop off and stretch your legs along the way.
The historic market town and one-time Roman port of Wareham lies between Poole and Swanage and is the perfect place to hire a canoe and paddle down the River Frome. Wareham River Boat Hire offers everything from canoes to motorboats. Their Canadian canoes comfortably hold up to three people and can be hired for half an hour if you’re planning a quick trip, or up to a whole day if you want to fully explore the river. When you’ve finished, why not retire to the Old Granary or The Quay Inn (both popular gastro pubs) for a well-earned refreshment?
Get on the water at – River Frome (Wareham Quay) and River Stour (Christchurch/Tuckton Bridge). Stay nearby at Heath Reach in Canford Heath and The Willows in Christchurch, both just a short drive to these canoeing locations.
Hiking
Autumn is the perfect time to explore the Jurassic Coast on foot. Mild conditions are perfect for hiking; however, we do suggest you wear sturdy walking boots and pack your waterproof just in case! We have highlighted some of our favourite hikes in Dorset below, ranging in intensity and duration, so there’s something for everyone!
Old Harry Rocks Circular
This moderate, 6.3km trek takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. The popular trail takes in the scenic, elevated coastline and leads you to the stunning three-chalk formations – Old Harry Rocks. Starting at Studland’s South beach, ascend the slight incline towards the iconic landmark, marking the most Easterly point of the Jurassic Coast. Hug the coastline for most of the way until you reach a right turning on Ballard Down, and return through grassland, making your way back down to Studland.
Lulworth to Durdle Door
This popular trail showcases the stunning landmark, Durdle Door – a natural limestone arch set on the Man O’ War beach, making up part of the World Heritage Site. This is another scenic hike along the coast that takes you from Lulworth Cove, through farmlands, over the White Nothe cliffs then back through Bat’s Head until you reach the stunning arch of Durdle Door. This trek takes approximately 4 hours so it is aimed at moderate to experienced hikers as some areas are steep and you will cover just over 11.5km – challenge accepted!
Portland Lighthouse Circular
Marking the most southerly point on the Jurassic Coast, Portland is a land-tied island connected to the mainland through Chesil Beach. This small yet beautiful part of the south coast is only four miles long and a mile and a half wide, making it easy to fully explore. Known for its three eye-catching lighthouses, this route allows you to see every one of them. At 5.5km long, this trail should take just under an hour and a half, allowing you to explore the coastal path, from Portland Bill Lighthouse, following on to Old Higher Lighthouse and passing the former Portland quarry.
Indoor Activities
Living in the UK, we know autumn isn’t all wall-to-wall sunshine, but when the weather is not on our side, we’ve got you covered! Below are a few locations you may like to explore for a fun day out in the dry!
Mr Mulligan’s Crazy Golf – Bournemouth
Mr Mulligan’s is known for its fun and wacky 18-hole crazy golf course. Set in the BH2 leisure building in Bournemouth town Centre, you are close to all the action if you plan to eat out or shop during your visit. The venue also offers a range of other activities including shuffleboard, electro-darts, pool and ping pong. You can also make the most of the restaurant and bar area offering classics such as pizza and nachos, and a range of cocktails.
Do you have a special occasion coming up during your stay? If so, Mulligan’s offer group bookings to help you celebrate. Ensure you book in advance to avoid disappointment, as this venue can be particularly busy on those rainy autumn weekends.
Athelhampton House and Gardens – Dorchester
Calling all history enthusiasts! Athelhampton House is one of England’s earliest Tudor Manors, with the Great Hall dating back to 1485 and remaining largely untouched since it was built. The house has seen many owners during its time and since 2019 now belongs to Giles Keating, an economist from London. Today, you can visit or stay at Athelhampton, either in the thatched cottages nearby or the North Wing of the house.
If you’re planning your stay for October, be sure to visit Athelhampton House on Saturday 19th October 2024 when they will be holding an autumn pop up market. Local creators, producers and growers will be in attendance and showcasing their Dorset-made goods. You can book your space to attend this event through their website.
SEA LIFE Centre – Weymouth
Get ready for underwater fun for all the family! The SEA LIFE Centre has a range of sea creatures including sharks, turtles, seals and otters for you to see. Alongside the wildlife, there are a range of activities to sink your teeth into. Why not try the Pirate Adventure Mini Golf, or explore Fairy Penguin Island?
There is so much to see with 13 different zones, a rockpool, Night and Day Ocean Displays and adventure playground, Caribbean Cover. Make sure you book your tickets in advance as pre-booking online is essential! You can choose a standard ticket or an anytime entry ticket, with flexible, anytime arrival on the day of your choice.
Tank Museum – Bovington
Combining history and action, the Bovington Tank Museum now has 300 tanks in its impressive and mighty collection. The museum explores moments in history since World War I, and with 10 exhibitions to explore, it is suggested you allow 4 to 5 hours for your tour.
The museum, west of Wareham, is known as ‘the home of the tank’ where some of the very first tank crews were trained during World War I. Now open daily from 10am to 5pm, book your visit today, and look out for the numerous activity weekends, including Tankfest – an entire weekend of action and events!
Visit Dorset with Quay Holidays today
Looking to plan your next trip to Dorset? At Quay Holidays, we have the largest range of self-catering holiday properties in Poole and the local area. Whatever you’re looking for, we’re passionate about finding the perfect holiday property for you. From quaint cottages for two to spacious, modern five-bedroom houses, we’re proud to offer a true home-from-home experience on Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast.
Contact us on 01202 683333 to discuss your holiday needs further, or visit our Properties page to explore our portfolio of holiday homes today.