Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath

Open heathland south of Dorchester that actually rewards a proper walk. Tadnoll and Winfrith Heath isn't the sort of place you drive to and snap a photo from the car park - you'll want boots and at least a couple of hours to do it justice.

This is genuine Dorset heath, the kind of landscape that once covered far more of the county before agriculture and development carved it up. You get heather, gorse, and scattered pines, with a few small pools dotted about. The walking is straightforward and quiet - far fewer tourists than you'd find at the honey-pot coastal spots, and the views open up nicely as you climb slightly. On a clear day you can pick out the ridge of Dorset's chalk downs to the north.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's not dramatic or famous enough for a flying visit, but if you're based nearby at one of the caravan parks - Durdle Door Holiday Park is only 3.7 miles away - it's a solid half-day option. The terrain is easy enough for family walks with older kids, though there's not much in the way of facilities, so bring what you need.

Best visited in late summer when the heather flowers, though spring and autumn are equally good for walking. Winter can be muddy. There's no charge to access the heath, and you can park at the small public car park near the entrance. If Tadnoll and Winfrith feels a bit low-key, combine it with Durdle Door or other Purbeck spots on the same day.