Last-minute autumn breaks

Want to squeeze in a last-minute autumn break before the Christmas madness ensues? Make the most of the mild temperatures, delicious seasonal produce and quieter destinations with a stay at one of these luxury South West hotels

The Old Quay House Hotel, Cornwall

In summer, Fowey buzzes with activity as tourists descend on the pretty port town to dine in its acclaimed restaurants, browse its indie shops and explore the beautiful stretch of coastline on which it sits. Autumn offers all of these attractions without the crowds, making it a fantastic time of year to visit.

First choice on your places-to-stay list should be The Old Quay House Hotel. Located in the heart of the town and overlooking the water, the boutique hotel and restaurant is a luxurious base from which to experience Fowey. Plump for a sea-view room with balcony to start your day with a coffee in your dressing gown, watching boats gliding through the water below, and then end it with a glass of chilled Champagne to the soothing sounds of tinkling masts chiming in the wind.

This November and December, guests staying on a bed and breakfast basis get 20 per cent off the regular room rate (offer excludes December 24-31).

The Manor House, Wiltshire

As the temperature drops and the nights draw in, the ivy that climbs the exterior of this 14^th-century manor house shifts from the chlorophyll-rich greens of summer to the burnt-orange hues of autumn. Of course, the foliage isn’t the only reason to book a room at this fairy tale hotel: feasting on seasonal dishes at the Michelin-starred Bybrook restaurant, exploring the beautiful village of Castle Combe in its autumn colours and soaking in an alfresco hot tub are all tempting propositions.

There is a mélange of breaks available at The Manor House this autumn. From Eat, Sleep Repeat (a two-night stay with dinner at Bybrook and sister gastropub The Castle Inn) to Tails and Trails (bed and breakfast for you and fido, in one of the hotel’s dog-friendly rooms), there’s an offer to entice every kind of traveller.

Harbour Beach Club Hotel & Spa, Devon

If your idea of a last-minute autumn break is more lazing in the spa and feasting on fabulous food than enthusiastic all-weather walks in the countryside, you’ll love Harbour Beach Club. The spanking new hotel, spa and restaurant overlooking South Sands Beach is an uber-glam destination for an indulgent retreat.

Spend the day unravelling on the massage table, gliding through the 12-metre pool and relaxing in the hot tub before dressing up and enjoying a pre-dinner glass of bubbles on your balcony. The contemporary restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide a stunning backdrop to dinner. Given its coastal setting, seafood takes a starring role on the seasonal menus – choose from hero dishes such as shellfish linguine, local mussels cooked in cider and chorizo, and lobster thermidor.

The Holcombe, Somerset

Autumn is a fantastic time to eat out in the South West thanks to the region’s glut of seasonal fruits and vegetables. For a taste of the Somerset terroir, head to The Holcombe near Bath to feast on dishes crafted with produce from the inn’s own kitchen garden.  

The Holcombe’s two-night autumn offer, which includes dinner in the restaurant each night, gives overnight guests the opportunity to fully explore head chef and co-owner Alan Lucas’ creative cooking. Expect colourful compilations such as double-baked Somerset cheddar souffle with wild mushroom sauce and shaved truffle, and confit duck leg with Asian squash puree and runner beans.

Read our review of The Holcombe here.

St Michaels Resort, Cornwall

Sucker for a good deal? This autumn you can score a room (and full Cornish breakfast) at one of Falmouth’s top hotels from just £70 per person per night.

Overlooking Gyllyngvase Beach, St Michaels Resort is luxury destination for couples, families and solo travellers who want to wake up to the sound of waves lapping at the shore. As well as bed and breakfast, the hotel’s Awesome Autumn offer includes full use of the gym and swim facilities.

Like 5 of the best last-minute autumn breaks? Check out our pick of hidden-gem hotels.

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