End Hill Tail Trail

The walk up End Hill Tail is one of those Dorset scrambles that catches you off guard. What starts as a gentle amble through scrubland suddenly opens into proper chalk downland, with views that stretch all the way across the Somerset levels on a clear day. It's genuinely worth the leg work.

You're looking at a nature reserve that takes itself seriously. The trail winds through mixed grassland where you'll spot orchids in summer and the occasional buzzard overhead. The ground underfoot is uneven in places - worn earth and exposed flint - so decent boots matter. Families with younger children should budget an hour to an hour and a half for the full circuit. Older kids and proper walkers will find it more engaging, though it's hardly strenuous.

Best visited between late spring and early autumn, when the wildflowers are actually doing something worth photographing. Winter's lovely for views, but the paths can be muddy and there's not much colour to reward you for getting cold.

Crewkerne's the nearest town if you need to stock up on supplies, but honestly you're better served by basing yourself at one of the nearby glamping spots. Wytch Wood Camping sits perfectly for exploring this corner of the county, and Swallowfield offers the more upmarket version if you want to retreat to something plusher after your boots come off.

It's the sort of walk that justifies a longer stay - combine it with the other reserves dotted through this patch of Dorset, and you've got a proper rambling holiday on your hands.