Boys' Hill

The walk up Boys' Hill from Dorchester takes you through proper downland - chalky paths, open sky, and views that stretch across the Dorset countryside. It's not a mountain, but at around 650 feet it's high enough to feel like you've earned the effort, especially on a warm day when the climb catches you out.

The summit itself is pleasantly anticlimactic in the best way. You get a 360-degree perspective of the surrounding landscape without any of the overcrowding you'd find at more famous Dorset peaks. On clear days the visibility is excellent - you can pick out villages, hedgerows, and the gentle folds of the downs rolling away. The Cerne Abbas Giant lies somewhere in that direction, though you won't spot it from here.

Historically minded walkers will appreciate that this is ancient Dorset terrain - chalk figures, Iron Age camps, and Bronze Age barrows litter the area if you know where to look. It's the sort of walk where geology matters as much as the destination.

Allow two hours there and back from Dorchester at a steady pace, less if you're rushing. The paths are generally well-defined but can get muddy after rain. Families with younger legs might find it a bit sloggy, but school-age walkers handle it fine. It's free - just turn up and start walking.

Stay at Starlight Glamping or Giants Head Caravan & Camping Park nearby and you've got a proper walking base. Boys' Hill works perfectly as a half-day walk fitted between other Dorset exploring.