The Rocket Park

The Rocket Park near Sturminster Newton is a proper nature reserve that centres around what used to be a Second World War airfield - you can still spot the old concrete runways cutting through the landscape. It's genuinely fascinating if you're into that sort of history, though these days it's all about the wildlife and the walking trails that criss-cross the site. The reserve attracts birdwatchers in particular; depending on the season you might spot skylarks, stone curlews, or various raptors if you're patient and quiet. There's also open grassland and scrub habitat that supports insects and small mammals.

For families it's a decent half-day outing rather than an all-dayer. Kids tend to enjoy the slightly eerie feeling of walking past the old wartime structures, and there's something oddly compelling about seeing nature reclaim a military site. Walkers will find it satisfying - nothing too demanding, but the paths give you proper countryside views without the crowds you'd get at more obvious Dorset attractions.

The real draw is combining this with a stay at one of the nearby parks. Starlight Glamping is just under five miles away and rates brilliantly; Long Hazel Park is a touch further if you prefer traditional camping or caravanning. Both make sensible bases for exploring this corner of Dorset. Timing-wise, spring and early summer are best for birdwatching and wildflowers. Admission details aren't entirely clear, so ringing ahead before you visit is worth doing - Sturminster Newton's a small market town, so locals there will point you in the right direction too.