Mohuns Park

The footpath in through Mohuns Park catches you off guard - suddenly you're walking between proper woodland on both sides, the kind of place that makes you forget you're still in Dorset rather than somewhere far more remote. It's a nature reserve that doesn't announce itself loudly, which is rather the point. You'll find yourself on trails threading through mixed woodland and open grassland, with the River Stour winding through the lot of it.

Walkers will get the most from this. The terrain is gentle enough for a family afternoon but interesting enough that you won't feel like you're just shuffling around a municipal park. Birdwatchers should absolutely come - the woodland and riverside habitat draws a decent variety. Bring binoculars and spend a proper hour here if you're serious about it.

The whole visit takes as long as you make it. A quick wander is feasible in an hour, but if you're the type who actually looks at things, two hours disappears without you noticing. There's no visitor centre to speak of, no cafe - which is refreshing, honestly. Sturminster Newton is only a few miles away if you need supplies.

If you're based at either Starlight Glamping or Sunnyhill Campsite nearby, this makes an excellent morning walk before heading somewhere bigger like a more famous Dorset reserve. It's the sort of place you do because it's on your doorstep when you're holidaying locally, not somewhere you'd drive hours for. That said, on a good day with decent light, it's a proper lovely spot.