Planning an autumn escape to the countryside? If your idea of the perfect break includes brisk woodland walks, roaring fires, and slow, seasonal dining, Berwick Lodge in Bristol offers a refined yet relaxed place to experience it all. But when the weather is changeable and your plans include both muddy footpaths and elegant dinners, it can be tricky to know what to pack.
This guide will help you prepare for your stay with practical tips, packing suggestions, and inspiration for making the most of autumn at a country house hotel.
Dressing for Autumn in the Countryside
Autumn weather in the UK has a personality of its own — crisp and clear one moment, then damp and misty the next. The key to staying comfortable while exploring the countryside is layering. Think breathable basics, warm jumpers, and a well-fitted coat that works for both walks and dinner.
Footwear is also essential. Waterproof walking shoes or boots are ideal if you plan to explore Berwick’s gardens or nearby trails, while a smarter pair will suit evening dining in the hotel’s elegant restaurant.
If you’re visiting in October or early November, pack a scarf and gloves for those cooler mornings and evenings — particularly if you want to catch golden hour in the grounds. Berwick Lodge’s location makes it easy to enjoy the best of the season, from woodland wanders to garden strolls.
A Stylish Yet Practical Approach
Staying at a boutique country house hotel allows for a slightly more elevated packing list. You won’t need formalwear, but something smart-casual for dinner or afternoon tea is ideal. Soft knits, tailored jeans or trousers, and a warm overcoat will cover most scenarios.
If you’re a photography enthusiast, this is one of the best times to capture moody skies and vibrant autumn leaves. Don’t forget your camera — or your phone charger, for that matter.
Reading material, a notebook, or even a sketchpad can come in handy too. There’s something about the stillness of the countryside in autumn that invites a slower pace and time for reflection.
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Comforts Worth Bringing Along
Berwick Lodge provides all the essentials — towels, robes, luxury toiletries, and more. But to personalise your stay, consider bringing a few home comforts. A favourite tea blend, a silk eye mask, or a soothing pillow spray can help make your room feel even more restful.
Skincare is especially important in colder months, so a nourishing moisturiser and lip balm can be worth packing. If you’re planning to enjoy a quiet evening in, a paperback and your comfiest loungewear might be all you need.
Dining at Berwick Lodge is another highlight, especially as the evenings draw in and the menus turn toward seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Learn more about dining at Berwick:
Making the Most of Your Stay
Berwick Lodge sits just on the edge of Bristol, with easy access to both countryside paths and heritage spots. Whether you’re visiting nearby estates like Blaise Castle or taking a slow drive through South Gloucestershire, it helps to pack for a variety of weather and terrain.
You might want to include a reusable water bottle, a small daypack for walks, or even your own set of binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
The real charm of staying at a place like Berwick Lodge is the flexibility. You can be as active or as restful as you like — so pack with your personal pace in mind.
