Cockwell Coppice

Dense woodland spreads across this quiet corner of Dorset, offering proper respite from the coastal crowds that flock to nearby Weymouth. Cockwell Coppice feels refreshingly untouched - the sort of place where you might stumble across deer tracks in the mud or catch sight of a red squirrel darting between the oaks.

Families with energetic children will find plenty to explore here, though it's worth noting this isn't manicured parkland with waymarked trails. The paths can be muddy after rain, so decent walking boots are essential. Dog walkers particularly love it - there's space to let them off the lead without worrying about traffic or livestock.

What strikes you most is the quiet. Even on busy summer weekends when the Dorset coast heaves with visitors, you can walk for an hour here without seeing another soul. Bird watchers do well too - I've spotted woodpeckers and nuthatches on several visits.

Allow a couple of hours if you're planning a proper walk, though younger children might lose interest after 45 minutes unless they're the adventurous type who enjoys scrambling over fallen logs. It makes a lovely contrast to beach days if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Chesil Beach Lodge Park or the larger Haven sites around Weymouth Bay. Perfect for burning off energy before dinner.