Mellow end of summer

SUMMER can fly by when we’re busy, leaving us more than a little peeved that we haven’t soaked up our full share of spiritlifting sunshine.

So before the slide into autumn gathers pace, why not arrange a last-minute break to enjoy the remaining warm rays and make the most of the season’s air shows, food festivals and balmy beach strolls?

As the schools go back, you can still enjoy lovely late-season sunshine and benefit from clearer roads, almost empty beaches and free tables in the best local restaurants.

Not forgetting the bonus of better availability and lower prices, too, with rates falling by up to a whopping 50 per cent from their summer heights.

From the Channel Islands to Devon, there is every chance to grab a glorious tail-end of summer.

AS THE season mellows, Devon and Cornwall take on a golden glow and pick up a gentler pace. Warm weather tends to linger on a bit longer here and September can be a knock-out month, with brilliant sunshine making for warm coastal walks. Head to the West Country’s gorgeous gardens for a full picture of what nature can offer at this fruitful time of year. Foodies can enjoy some of the finest cuisine this side of London, served up with sea views in restaurants, thatched pubs or at numerous food festivals. End rewarding days at the Hannafore Point Hotel at Looe, in Cornwall, which has a gym, pool and spa, or the Berry Head Hotel at Brixham in Devon, also with an indoor pool and excellent restaurant. Or head for the Moorland Hotel at Haytor on Dartmoor, which has had a stunning refurbishment. UK Breakaways offers numerous good hotel breaks across the country. And the balmy Channel Islands (pictured) provide a continental flavour on home ground, with great deals now available from Premier Holidays.