Autumn Colours & Crisp Air: Scenic Coastal Walks

At Waterside we have four wonderful parks that each lend themselves to different styles of autumnal walking - from woodland trails to cliff-top views, hidden coves to peaceful farms. Here are four autumnal walks - one from each of our parks - that showcase the beauty of the season.

Walk length: Approx. 8 miles

Terrain: Rolling farmland + chalk downs

Start from Bowleaze Cove and head westwards inland towards Dorchester. Take the trail across the Dorchester Downs - through fields, ancient hedgerows, and open chalk downland towards Hardy's Monument. In autumn, the downs glow with yellows, burnt oranges, and browns. Return via footpaths accustomed for farm access, looping back to the coast.

Why it’s great in autumn: the misty mornings across farmland, migrating birds, the contrast of colours.

Walk length: Approx. 8 miles

Terrain: Village, woodland, rolling countryside

From Chesil Beach Holiday Park, head towards Abbotsbury, a charming village just along the coast. You’ll find St Catherine’s Chapel, perched high above the village, with sweeping views of the Fleet Lagoon and Chesil Beach stretching into the distance. 

From here, descend into Abbotsbury’s lanes and follow paths past old stone cottages and through woodland that glows bronze in autumn. Continue on footpaths, perhaps making a trip around Abbotsbury’s Subtropical Gardens (entry ticket required, but the gardens are particularly stunning in autumn). Finish your loop back in the village, where you can enjoy a cosy pub stop before heading back. 

Why it’s great in autumn: bronze woodland colours, peaceful village charm, and panoramic views over Chesil Beach.

Walk length: 2.5 miles

Terrain: Steep hill, fields, chalk downland

From Osmington Mills Lodge Park, head inland through Osmington village and pick up the footpaths towards White Horse Hill. The striking chalk hill figure of King George III on horseback dates back to the early 19th century and looks especially dramatic in the softer autumn light. 

The climb is steep but rewarding, with sweeping views back over the Dorset coast, Portland, and Weymouth Bay. Once at the top, pause to admire both the White Horse itself and the surrounding patchwork of fields and hedgerows glowing gold and russet at this time of year. Loop back via quiet bridleways and field paths into Osmington village before returning to the park.

Why it’s great in autumn: Far-reaching coastal views, crisp downland air, and the White Horse etched into the hillside against autumn skies.

Fun fact: Local legend says that the figure was carved the wrong way round - the King is shown riding away from Weymouth rather than towards it. This supposedly offended him so much that he never returned to the town, even though the horse was created to commemorate his many visits!

Walk length: 3-4 miles

Terrain: Riverside, woodland, some hills

Just a short distance from Tregoad Holiday Park, you’ll find Kilminorth Woods, an ancient woodland on the edge of Looe. This nature reserve is a magical place in autumn, with oak, ask, and sycamore turning brilliant shades of gold and amber.

Start your walk in West Looe and follow the path along the River Looe upstream, watching the reflections of autumn leaves in the water. Cross into Kilminorth Woods, where well-marked trails loop through the woodland. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the smell of damp earth, and the chance to spot fungi or squirrels makes this a perfect autumn ramble. You can extend the walk up onto the higher ground above the woods for panoramic views back over Looe estuary before looping back to town.

Why it’s great in autumn: The glowing canopy of Kilminorth Woods and riverside reflections in the Looe Valley.

• Be prepared for weather: Autumn in Dorset & Cornwall can switch quickly - layer up, waterproofs, good boots.
• Daylight hours are shorter: plan walks to finish before sunset.
• Dog-Friendly: make sure dogs are on leads where required: check tide times on coastal routes; bring dog-friendly treats & water.
• Respect private land and follow footpath etiquette: stay on permitted paths, leave no trace.

While you make your autumn explorations, don’t forget that each Waterside park has features to make your stay special:

• Dog-friendly accommodation at all our parks; bring your four-legged friend.
• On-park amenities for warming up after a walk - restaurants, cafés, indoor pools.
• Nearby attractions & walking footpaths - many start directly from or very close to the park.

Don’t let the season pass you by - celebrate autumn’s magic by staying with us at Waterside. Whether you prefer rugged cliffs, golden woodland, or peaceful valleys, there’s a walk and a stay that’s just right.

Book your autumn break today, or browse our latest availability and special offers to plan your trip.