I’ll never forget the drive down to Lymington last autumn – the leaves were turning that perfect mix of gold and rust, carpeting the New Forest roads like nature’s own welcome mat. I’d been buzzing with anticipation all week, dreaming of cosy evenings by the fire after days out in the crisp air. But typical me, I took a wrong turn just outside Lyndhurst, ending up on a narrow lane that dead-ended at some farmer’s gate. Heart in my mouth, I reversed like a pro (or so I told myself), laughing it off as the kids in the back seat cheered. Half an hour later, we rolled into town, and oh, what a first impression – the sea air hit us like a bracing hug, and the high street was alive with that autumnal glow from the hanging baskets still bursting with colour despite the cooler days.

Pulling up to the cottage felt like stepping into a hug from an old mate. It’s one of those well-equipped family-friendly spots tucked right in the heart of Lymington, perfect for up to six adults and two kids, with everything you need to make yourselves at home. From the off, it was spot-on for the season – a wood burner ready to roar, fluffy blankets everywhere, and a kitchen stocked for hearty soups and stews. We dumped the bags and headed straight out, the autumn light making everything look like a painting.

The New Forest in October is magic, innit? Those misty mornings where the deer wander right up to the forest edges, steam rising from the dew-soaked ponies as they graze. We parked up near the town quay and wandered the Saturday market, grabbing fresh chestnuts to roast later and local fudge that tasted like childhood. The chill nipped at our cheeks, but it spurred us on to Buckler’s Hard, just a short stroll away along the river – the wooden boats bobbing in the harbour, leaves swirling in the breeze like confetti. We crunched through the woods back towards Lymington, spotting red squirrels darting about, and paused for cream teas at a little café overlooking the Solent. The sea was a moody grey, waves whispering against the shore, but it made the hot chocolate taste even better.

Evenings were the best bit, shaped entirely by that autumn cosiness. We’d light the fire, play board games till the kids nodded off, and sip mulled wine while the fog rolled in outside the windows. One night, gazing at the flames, I had a proper moment of reflection – rushing about city life feels daft when you can just sit here, family close, letting the season slow you right down. No wonder we didn’t want to leave; the New Forest in autumn wraps you up in its quiet rhythm, turning a simple holiday into something you carry home in your bones. Can’t wait to go back next year.