The Railway Gardens - Park & Events Ground

A former railway line turned nature reserve - that's the appeal of The Railway Gardens near Sturminster Newton. What you're walking through is essentially a reclaimed bit of Dorset countryside where the tracks have long since been lifted and wildflowers have taken over. The linear layout means it's brilliant for a straightforward ramble without the faff of figuring out where you're going, and you'll spot all sorts depending on the season: butterflies in summer, birds nesting in the scrubby bits, the usual woodland suspects.

It works well for families who don't want anything too demanding. Kids can potter about without the pressure of reaching a summit, and there's genuine interest in spotting wildlife or just noticing how quickly nature reclaims what we've abandoned. History buffs might enjoy the lingering sense of the line itself - the occasional cutting or embankment that gives away its former purpose. You won't need more than an hour or two here unless you're a serious birdwatcher.

Fits neatly into a Dorset countryside holiday, particularly if you're based at either Starlight Glamping or Gold Hill Glamping - both just a few miles away. The area around Sturminster Newton has that gentle, understated charm that suits a slower pace. Best visited in spring or early summer when the wildflowers are doing their thing and the bird activity is peak. It's low-key stuff, but that's rather the point.