The crowds have gone
Huge sandy beaches, the wide-open sea, sunshine (possibly). These lures in the summer often attract the masses to Britain’s finest coastline, which can often lead to tiresome traffic, having to book anything well in advance and – for some – simply too many people.
Post-school half term, November sees Dorset return to the pace of yester-year with clear country lanes, deserted beaches, refreshing sea swimming and restaurants where you can simply turn up and get a table.
The microclimate
Did you know that it rarely freezes in coastal Dorset? That’s proof of a milder climate.
Warm ocean current flows from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic Ocean, bringing with it warm water and balmy air. And, as the Gulf Stream reaches the coast of Dorset, it has a warming effect on the local climate, keeping temperatures milder than in other parts of the UK.
So, you’re more likely to enjoy all the benefits of calm, coastal walks with fresh sea air, and less chance of being stalled by frost or getting snowed in (though we can definitely think of worst places to be!).
Rain – it’s only water (and there's an upside!)
Most coastal regions have their fair share of rain, but this is what makes Dorset so lush and green, with a landscape that's dotted with wildflowers, ferns, and other coastal plants that makes even a wet walk that little bit more wonderful.
Despite the drizzle, Studland still enjoys around 2,190 hours of sunshine each year – and a pleasing 4.2 hours per day in November – making it one of the sunniest regions in the UK.
Sea air helps you sleep better
A study from the National Trust found that breathing in sea air helps you to sleep better. Results showed that, on average, people sleep for 47 minutes longer the night after a decent seaside hike, compared with only an additional 12 minutes for those who went on an inland walk of a similar length.
Environmental psychologist Eleanor Ratcliffe, who carried out the National Trust research, says: ‘It’s clear there’s something really special about the coast that can allow people to boost their mood, relax and sleep.’ Something that really will help many get through the darker winter months.
Salt water and coastal air helps your body heal
Winter can often leave people full of colds, coughs and generally feeling under the weather. But the Victorians were onto something... physical health improvements are undoubtedly a potential benefit of being by the sea.
Sea water is rich in minerals such as magnesium, chloride, sodium, potassium, iodine and sulphur, many of which have curative and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Additionally, the sea air contains a mist of saline water, which has a soothing effect on the respiratory system – so a seaside escape really can be good for the mind, soul, and body.
Stay at THE PIG-on the beach this November from just £195 per room per night.
And as an extra boost before the busy festivities, why not treat yourself to a deeply relaxing facial or massage in our Sheep Hut Potting Shed treatment rooms, for the ultimate R&R on the Jurassic Coast?
