6 Romantic Autumn Activities For Couples In Hampshire
21st Aug 2023
What could be more romantic...
than autumn walks over a carpet of amber and crimson leaves, orange canopies sparkling in the afternoon sun and cosy evenings in front of a roaring fire.
Spend a short but sweet break in the New Forest with the one you love, with romantic autumn activities perfect for two. From evenings of fine dining to afternoons gliding along the water, you’ll find the romantic activity for you here in our beautiful National Park.
1. Dining
A classic with a unique Montagu Arms twist, dinner for two is still top of the list for romantic activities, and The Terrace is a truly wonderful shared experience. As the evening autumn air cools, come in freshen up and spend a special evening sampling the flavours of the season; Chef’s menu is thoughtfully curated from the abundant New Forest larder, carefully selected local produce and homegrown ingredients from our very own kitchen garden. Pair it all with a wine flight and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable date night.
Or perhaps our Dining Break could be just the thing you’re looking for this autumn, inviting you to share a beautifully appointed room in our romantic 18th century Hampshire hotel, with a hearty New Forest breakfast to fuel you for the day’s explorations and then dinner for two at The Terrace Restaurant or Monty's Inn.
2. Walks
A short break in the New Forest in autumn is the perfect romantic escape for two and a chance to slow down, and see more of our beautiful National Park in all it’s colourful glory. Pack layers and walking boots and plan some romantic winding walks through our ancient woodland at one of the most beautiful times of year.
Just one of many walks is the Blackwater Tall Trees Trail, a short but spectacular walk in the heart of the New Forest with an impressive collection of trees; some of the tallest, heaviest, and toughest trees in the world, including redwoods and some of the oldest Douglas firs in Britain.
Get inspired by these autumn walks
While you’re out wandering under the auburn canopies, look out for the wonderful Pannage Pigs; a tradition dating back to the time of William the Conqueror, 600 domestic pigs are released into the forest every autumn to forage the woodland for acorns, beechmast, chestnuts and other nuts which are poisonous to our New Forest ponies.
Learn more about the Pannage tradition
3. Take to our waterways
What could be more romantic than a crisp autumn morning and a chance to spend time together away from screens, crowds, and the noise of city life. A wonderful activity for couples on a short break is an autumnal river cruise by canoe or kayak, or an adventure tour with a knowledgeable guide along Beaulieu River where you will have the opportunity to learn about and spot the wildlife that calls the river home whilst you explore hidden creeks and waterways.
4. Champagne Afternoon Tea
If your short romantic break away in the New Forest requires nothing but R&R and something of a traditional pastime, look no further than the quintessential Afternoon Tea. Add an extra touch of romance and celebration and make it a Champagne tea for two.
Our afternoon tea is served on a traditional stand showcasing an abundance of sweet treats, savouries, sandwiches and of course, freshly baked scones ready to be smothered with fruity jam and thick, soft clotted cream. A glass of Hattingley Valley Reserve is the pièce de resistance to a romantic autumnal afternoon together simply relaxing and sharing each other’s company.
Feeling indulgent? See our Afternoon Tea menus
5. Local attractions
The chance to discover something or somewhere new for two can be a wonderfully romantic activity. This autumn why not venture out to one of our local attractions in Beaulieu, where your tickets to The National Motor Museum can give you access to wander the museum and view more than 250 vehicles on show and an array of fascinating exhibits, or visit the historic and beautiful 'Palace House', the medieval Beaulieu Abbey, and Beaulieu’s grounds and gardens.
Or perhaps you’d prefer to roam the gardens of Exbury, open until the end of October, witness the changing colours of autumn and then stop for a warming hot chocolate in their café.
6. Spa time
A relaxing and romantic New Forest getaway wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the award-winning Thai Spa, SenSpa. Discover this unique sanctuary just 6 miles away at our sister hotel Careys Manor, offering 5-star spa facilities.
While guests of the Montagu Arms can enjoy complimentary access to the leisure club at SenSpa which includes an indoor pool, gym, poolside Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, on a chilly afternoon, why not book a warming spa session to use all of the facilities (available at preferential rates for guests of The Montagu Arms).
What could be better after a crisp autumn walk than stepping into a soothing hydrotherapy pool to ease away tension as you take in the wonderful aromas of the spa’s signature essential oil. Book the double treatment room for the Time for Two Massage, allowing you to enjoy a 60-minute Essential Relaxation Massage at the same time or surprise your partner with a relaxing treatment you know they’ll love.
From peaceful paths and Champagne afternoon tea to exciting local attractions and kayaking tours along picturesque waterways, our Hampshire hotel is the perfect base for your romantic getaway for two, whatever you choose to do. Time well spent, shared experiences, hearty breakfasts and relaxing lie-ins is a great start, so why not surprise them. There needn’t be a reason to be romantic this autumn, the beautiful season has that covered.
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