Seven of the best autumn walks in Dorset

  • The nights are closing in and there’s a definite crisp feel in the air which can only mean one thing – Autumn is here!

    For those of us lucky enough to call Dorset home, this is the perfect season for getting out and about in nature, with crunchy leaves underfoot and beautiful shades of red, orange and brown in abundance.

    So, what are you waiting for? Grab your walking boots or wellies and let’s go exploring!

    Seven of the best autumnal walks in Dorset

    Here are seven of our team’s favourite places to get out and about this autumn:

    1. Wareham Forest

    Wareham Forest is certainly one of the best locations to witness autumnal colours at their most breath-taking, with the heathland and woodland in full flourish. Even when the weather is less sunny, more rain and wind, the dense forest helps to provide shelter against the elements.

    There are several trails to choose from in Wareham Forest. One of the most popular is the Woodlark Trail, a two-mile circular walk which starts and finishes at the Sika Trail car park. 

    • For more information, visit Explore Wareham Forest.
    • Where to park: Sika Trail car park, Wareham BH20 7PE
    • Dog friendly: Yes (on a lead)

     

  • 2. Sherborne Castle Gardens

    Whilst not free to enter, the incredible 30-acre Capability Brown Gardens are a marvel to behold whatever the season, but they are particularly spectacular in autumn.

    The 1.3-mile Pleasure Grounds and Fossil House Walk takes in much of the gardens where you’ll see rolling landscapes and beautiful autumn-tinted trees reflected in the lake. Why not take part in the Sherborne Estate’s Autumn Colours Weekend on 26th and 27th October? Little ones will love the Children's Autumn Pumpkin Trail while adults can blow away the cobwebs and enjoy a bracing walk around acres of magnificent garden surrounding the lake.

    • For more information, visit Sherborne Castle & Gardens
    • Where to park: free roadside parking along Castleton Road, DT9 5NR
    • Dog friendly: Yes (on a short lead)

     

  • 3. Corfe Castle

    Dating back to 1086, this imposing fortress was built for William the Conqueror but was partially destroyed in the 1600s. What makes Corfe such an ideal setting for an autumn walk is the variety of routes you can take, all showcasing the stunning surrounding scenery. Embark on a 2.5-mile circular stroll from the castle to East Hill for some incredible panoramic views of the castle and village or if you’re up for more of a challenge, try the Corfe Castle to Kimmeridge and Kingston route. This 9.6-mile circular walk that takes you along the bay of Kimmeridge, then up to the Swyre Head for spectacular views of the coast and the countryside, before returning via the picturesque village of Kingston.

    • For more information, visit Corfe Castle
    • Where to park: West Street car park, BH20 5EB
    • Dog friendly: Yes (on a lead).

     

  • 4. Brownsea Island

    A trip to Brownsea Island is like stepping into another world, with a variety of self-led trails and guided walks to explore. Keep your eye out among the trees for the famous Brownsea red squirrels, who at this time of year are at their most active, searching for food to stash away for the long winter months ahead. Keep an eye out for deer too, as well as unusual fungi and mushrooms.

    Please note that Brownsea Island is closed to visitors from 4th November 2024.

    • For more information, visit Brownsea Island
    • Where to park: You can’t park on Brownsea Island. Park at Quay Visitors car park, BH15 1SB.
    • Dog friendly: Only guide dogs permitted on Brownsea Island

     

  • 5. Castleman Trailway

    This 16.5-mile trailway follows much of the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line and takes you through some of East Dorset's most stunning landscapes which turn a beautiful reddish brown in the autumn months. For those hardy folk wishing to tackle the whole trail, you’ll pass through Merley, Stapehill, Ferndown, West Moors and Ashley Heath en route, as well as internationally important heathland and forestry plantations.

    • For more information, visit Castleman Trailway
    • Where to park: Upton Country Park, BH22 7BJ
    • Dog friendly: Yes

     

  • 6. Badbury Rings, Kingston Lacy

    Badbury Rings has a history stretching back thousands of years to when Iron Age tribes settled here. While the hill fort itself looks incredible from afar, it’s even more impressive up close. Located 100 metres above sea level, you’ll witness sweeping views across the Dorset countryside while a walk along Beech Avenue offers a glimpse of the centuries-old Beech trees taking on an orange and red tint.

    • For more information, visit Badbury Rings
    • Where to park: Badbury Rings National Trust car park, DT11 9JL
    • Dog friendly: Yes

     

  • 7. Thorncombe Woods

    Nestled within the depths of Hardy country, this incredible 26-hectare area of woodland and heathland is a fabulous place to visit. Marvel at the majestic mature oaks, sweet chestnut and beech trees proudly displaying their autumn colours as you ramble through the crunchy leaves, exploring the area that Thomas Hardy portrayed in novels such as ‘The Woodlanders’ and ‘Return of the Native’.

    • For more information, visit Thorncombe Wood
    • Where to park: Thorncombe Wood Car Park, DT2 8QJ
    • Dog friendly: Yes

     

    Want to get more active this autumn?

    Walking is a fantastic form of exercise, and when better to enjoy it than in the crisp autumnal sunshine? Whether you prefer a gentle stroll alone or a more challenging hike with a walking group, Dorset is the perfect setting to get out and about this season. If you’d like to discover more great places to stretch the legs, or are looking for walking groups in your area, head over to our website for more information.

    We also have a fantastic team of advisors and coaches who can craft a personalised plan to help you get more active and achieve your fitness goals. If you live in Dorset, register with us today to find out more.

    Further reading

    • https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/faq/get-active/the-best-woodland-and-forest-walks-in-dorset/
    • https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/faq/get-active/flat-walks-in-dorset/
    • https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/articles/dorset-accessible-countryside/
    • https://www.livewelldorset.co.uk/faq/get-active/the-8-types-of-walking-styles-which-one-should-you-choose/
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