Autumn arrives gently at Lime Wood.

The forest begins to glow in shades of amber and gold, mornings turn crisp, and the pace of life slows ever so slightly. Whether you're looking to embrace the outdoors, indulge in seasonal dining or simply escape daily life for a few days, there's no better time to experience the New Forest.

Here are five of our favourite ways to enjoy Lime Wood this autumn.

Sink Into a Slower Rhythm at Herb House Spa

As the seasons change, there's something comforting about slowing down and taking a little time for yourself.

At Herb House, autumn is all about warmth, restoration and seasonal nourishment. Drift between the indoor and outdoor pools, settle into the forest-view sauna and watch the leaves transform from green to gold beyond the glass. It's one of the most beautiful times of year to experience the spa, with a front-row seat to the changing landscape of the New Forest.

Running from 5th October to 29th November 2026, our Grounded in Autumn Spa Day has been designed to help you embrace the season ahead. Enjoy a restorative Ground treatment, a nourishing seasonal lunch in Raw & Cured and a warming Ritual Cacao drink, alongside full use of Herb House's pools, thermal experiences and relaxation spaces.

The perfect chance to pause, reset and settle into autumn.

Step Straight Into the Forest

One of the best things about Lime Wood is that the New Forest is right outside our front door. Pull on your boots and head out amongst ancient woodland, open heathland and winding forest trails. As autumn settles in, the landscape comes alive with rich colour, crunchy leaves underfoot and some of the forest's most beautiful scenery.

Keep an eye out for free-roaming ponies, donkeys, cattle and pigs enjoying pannage, and take the opportunity to slow down and explore at your own pace. If you're looking for inspiration, discover some of our favourite walking routes from Lime Wood in our dedicated walking guide.

Settle In for Seasonal Dining at Hartnett Holder & Co

Autumn is a great time to be in the Hartnett Holder & Co kitchen.

The change of season brings plenty for Angela, Luke and the team to play with. Beautiful British produce, handmade pasta and proper autumn flavours take centre stage, from Barolo risotto with gorgonzola piccante and charred radicchio to quail cooked over embers with Four Acre Farm peperonata, chilli and basil.

It's the kind of food that encourages long lunches, second glasses of wine and ordering just a little more than you intended.

Our Pranzetto set lunch menu offers the perfect excuse for a bit of midweek indulgence. Available Monday to Friday lunchtimes, enjoy two courses for £39.50 or three courses for £45, celebrating the very best of the season.

Hibernate for a Night or Two

There are few places better suited to autumn than Lime Wood.

The forest is turning, there's the first crackle of wood from the fireplace, and out amongst the oaks and beeches, the pigs are roaming for pannage. Meanwhile, the Hartnett Holder & Co team are embracing the new season in the kitchen, our events calendar is filling with seasonal experiences, and Herb House is at its most inviting, with warm pools, thermal experiences and plenty of opportunities to switch off.

Our Dinner, Bed & Breakfast stay wraps it all up rather nicely, including dinner at Hartnett Holder & Co, full use of Herb House, an overnight stay and breakfast the following morning.

Autumn is happening. You may as well be here for it.

Try Something New This Season

Autumn is a season of discovery, and we've curated a collection of experiences designed to help you connect with the forest in a different way.

Join our resident forager, Sammie Longhorn, for a seasonal foraging experience. Starting at Herb House, you'll head into the forest for a guided walk exploring what's growing wild before returning for refreshments and an informal Q&A.

Or join Lindsey from Dorset Forest Bathing on Wednesday 21st October for our Autumn Dusk Discovery Walk. As daylight begins to fade, you'll wander through the forest, taking in the rich colours of the season, fascinating fungi and local wildlife, before returning to Raw & Cured for refreshments and reflection.

It's a wonderful way to experience the quieter magic of the New Forest as autumn unfolds.

Make the Most of Autumn

Whether you're wandering forest trails, indulging in delicious dining, unwinding at Herb House or simply enjoying the view from a cosy corner of the house, autumn is one of the most rewarding times to visit Lime Wood.

The forest is changing. Come and enjoy it with us.

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