K9 Woods

K9 Woods is a working forest area near Ringwood where you can walk your dog through proper woodland tracks without worrying about sheep or cattle wandering into the path. It's not a manicured attraction with visitor facilities - it's genuinely just a place where dogs can run about freely and owners can stretch their legs without the usual farmland restrictions.

The woodland itself is fairly standard New Forest borderland stuff: mixed deciduous trees, muddy in winter, decent enough for a solid hour's walk if you're not expecting anything dramatic. Dogs absolutely love it, which is the whole point. There's room to let them off-lead and actually let them be dogs rather than keeping them glued to your side. For walkers without canines, it's forgettable - you'll find better woodland experiences almost anywhere else in Dorset.

It works brilliantly if you're staying at Ashley Heath Caravan Park nearby and have a dog that's been cooped up during the drive down. That's really the market here - caravan holidays where your spaniel or terrier needs a proper run-around between beach days and cream tea stops. No admission charges, no opening hours to worry about, just turn up and crack on. Allow two hours maximum if you're doing a proper circuit, or pop in for 45 minutes if you're just breaking the journey.

Word of warning: come late afternoon rather than peak midday if you want any peace. And wear wellies - the ground gets boggy.