Cripton Wood

Dense woodland spreads across the hills just inland from Weymouth, offering proper countryside walking without the coastal crowds. Cripton Wood feels refreshingly wild after the bustling seafront - ancient trees create a cool canopy overhead while footpaths wind through the undergrowth.

Families staying at nearby Haven parks will find this a decent escape when the beach gets too hectic. The paths aren't pushchair-friendly though, so best for older kids who can manage uneven ground. Dog walkers love it here - plenty of space to let them off the lead away from traffic.

You'll spot the occasional mountain biker, but it's mainly walkers exploring the network of trails. Some paths connect to longer routes heading towards the South West Coast Path, making it useful for serious hikers planning bigger adventures. The woodland runs right up to farmland, giving lovely views across the Dorset countryside when you emerge from the trees.

Being so close to Weymouth Bay Holiday Park and the other coastal sites, it's an obvious choice for a morning walk before hitting the beach. Allow a couple of hours to explore properly - longer if you fancy extending into the surrounding countryside. Free parking seems limited, so worth checking locally before heading out.