A Packing Guide for an Autumn Lodge Break at Mill Meadow

As the leaves turn bronze and the air takes on a crisp bite, an autumn lodge getaway feels like the perfect remedy to the humdrum of daily life. At Mill Meadow, we’ve thought about everything to keep your stay warm, welcoming and full of seasonal charm – from underfloor heating and logs for your fire, to private hot tubs under the stars. Here’s a quick guide on what to bring, plus a few ideas for enjoying your stay.

What to Pack

Autumn in Somerset can be crisp, fresh and sometimes a little damp, so it pays to be prepared. You won’t need to bring logs or home comforts (we’ve got you covered there), but here are the essentials worth popping in your bag:

• Warm coat and layers – perfect for wrapping up on woodland walks.

• Waterproof walking boots – sturdy enough for muddy paths.

• Cosy clothes for indoors – think jumpers, joggers and slippers.

• Hat, gloves and scarf – for crisp mornings or stargazing at night.

• Swimwear – yes, you’ll want it for your private hot tub!

• Games, books or favourite films – for cosy evenings in (some lodges have games in them already!)

That’s it! Keep it simple, travel light, and you’ll be ready for a relaxing break.

Lodge Comforts We’ve Got Covered

We’re pleased to offer a number of features so you can arrive lighter and focus on enjoying your time. All of these mean less to pack and more time to relax.

• Logs provided – We supply logs for your wood burner (select lodges), so your evenings by the fire are delightfully warm.

• Underfloor heating – Every lodge has underfloor heating to keep the floors comfortably warm even on chillier days.

• Private hot tubs – Many of our lodges come with your very own hot tub. Imagine sinking into warm water, watching smoke drift across the trees as dusk falls.

• Eco credentials & cosy design — We pay attention to sustainable design, so your comfort doesn’t come at the expense of nature.

Things to Do During an Autumn Lodge Break

Autumn at Mill Meadow is about slowing down, reconnecting and indulging in seasonal pleasures. Here are a few ideas:

1. Warm Up in the Hot Tub

There’s little better than slipping into bubbling warmth as dusk falls or under a moonlit sky. Let the steam rise around you while you soak in quiet, fresh air, perhaps with a mug of hot chocolate by your side.

2. Film Nights & Game Nights

Bring your favourite films or a streaming stick and host your own private cinema in the lodge. We also encourage guests to bring card games, board games or puzzles. Gather, laugh, and make memories — no rush, no distractions.

3. Fireside Reading & Chat

Light the wood burner, pour a cup of tea or a hot toddy, and curl up with a book or good conversation. The flicker of flame and soft shadows across the walls make an ideal backdrop for unwinding.

4. Autumnal Walks & Nature Trails

The surroundings of Mill Meadow are made for wandering. Wear your boots and wrap up warm, then head out to:

• Explore woodland paths edged with golden leaves

• Wander around our private lake and look for wildlife

• Follow local footpaths through fields and hedgerows

• Pause for a brisk coffee stop or pub lunch – we can recommend our favourites.

5. Wildlife & Birdwatching

Autumn is a rich time for spotting migrating birds, deer or foxes preparing for winter. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom — dawn and dusk are often the best.

6. Stargazing & Night-time Magic

The countryside has minimal light pollution. On clear nights, you can catch constellations, shooting stars or even glimpses of the Milky Way. Step outside (or from your hot tub!) wrapped in a blanket, and enjoy.

7. Local Food & Exploring

While staying in, cooking in your well-equipped lodge kitchen is a pleasure. But you might also enjoy venturing out to nearby cafés, farm shops and seasonal fare in local Somerset villages. Ask us for suggestions!

Contact us to book your cosy autumnal stay at Mill Meadow