Pageant Gardens

The Pageant Gardens sit just outside Sturminster Newton and are honestly worth a potter around if you're staying in the area. It's a proper nature reserve - all wildflower meadows and woodland walks rather than manicured flower beds, which is either brilliant or disappointing depending on what you were expecting. The meadows absolutely sing in spring and early summer when the flowers are out; it's the kind of place where you'll actually spot butterflies and hear birds rather than just looking at them from a distance.

This isn't a destination you'd drive an hour for, but as part of a Dorset break it works well. Families with young kids might manage a decent hour here if they're the exploring type, though there's no play equipment and it won't hold their attention for a full afternoon. Serious walkers and birdwatchers will get more mileage out of it - bring binoculars and give yourself at least two hours to actually see something.

It sits nicely within reach of Starlight Glamping if you're base camping in the area. The reserve complements a broader exploration of the Blackmore Vale countryside rather than standing alone as a must-do. Free entry is almost certain given it's a nature reserve, but ring ahead to check opening arrangements - these places can have odd hours. The walking's easy underfoot and fairly flat, so no need for serious kit. Go when the light's good and the wildlife's active - early morning or late afternoon beats midday.