I’ll never forget the drive down to Weymouth last autumn – the leaves turning that gorgeous coppery gold along the A354, making me proper excited for a cosy seaside break. But typical me, I took a wrong turn just outside Dorchester, ending up in some narrow lane with cows eyeing me suspiciously through the hedge. A good half-hour detour later, and I’m sweating a bit, but as the seafront came into view with the sun dipping low over Portland Bill, all that stress melted away. Weymouth in October? Magic. The crowds had thinned, leaving that perfect shoulder-season vibe – crisp air, empty beaches, and not a brolly in sight fighting for space.

Pulling up to the place, my heart did a little flip. It’s this cracking first-floor apartment smack in the heart of town, all stylish and inviting, with those stunning sea views that hit you right from the off. Stepped inside to two beautifully done bedrooms – one with a massive king-size bed that screamed ‘sink in and forget the world’, the other with friendly twin beds perfect for a mate crashing over. Smart TV for chill evenings, and the beach literally on the doorstep. First impressions? Spot on. It felt like home straight away, especially with the autumn light streaming in, turning everything all warm and golden.

That time of year shaped everything, really. Mornings started with a brisk walk along Weymouth Beach, the sand still damp from overnight dew, waves crashing under a big sky streaked with clouds. No summer scorchers, thank goodness – just that invigorating chill that makes a hot cuppa from the seafront kiosks taste like nectar. We wandered the harbour, watching fishing boats bob in the swell, picking up fresh crab sticks from the stalls that were still open but without the queues. The Nothe Fort was a highlight – clambering around those old walls with the wind whipping up, feeling like proper explorers in our coats and scarves. Weymouth’s esplanade felt alive but peaceful, with families flying kites and dogs chasing sticks, the sea mist adding a mysterious edge.

Evenings were pure bliss, hunkered down with the windows cracked open to that salty breeze. Fish and chips from the town’s chippy – proper proper ones, wrapped in paper – eaten on the balcony watching the lights twinkle across the bay. One night, a massive harvest moon rose over the water, turning the whole scene silver; we cracked open a bottle of red and just soaked it in. Light humour came when I tried skimboarding on the beach – slipped straight on my bum into a puddle, but laughed it off as the cold water shocked me back to reality.

Looking back, that autumn stay was a gentle nudge to slow down. Summer’s frantic, winter’s hunkered, but October? It’s that sweet spot where Weymouth strips back to its soul – raw, beautiful, and just for you. Made me reflect on how we rush through life; sometimes you need a sea view and a mishap to remind you to breathe. Can’t wait to go back.