North Wood & Coombe Wood

Two ancient woodlands sprawl across the hills just west of Dorchester, offering proper old-growth forest walking without the crowds you'll find at better-known spots. North Wood and Coombe Wood form a continuous canopy of oak, ash and beech that feels genuinely wild - none of those manicured forest paths here.

Dog walkers and families with older kids will love the network of unofficial trails that wind through both sections. The terrain can be properly muddy after rain, so decent boots are essential. You'll spot deer if you're quiet, and the bird life is excellent - particularly in spring when everything's coming alive.

What makes this special is how untouched it feels. Unlike some Dorset forests that have been turned into visitor attractions, these woods remain working countryside. No car parks or interpretation boards, just proper English woodland doing its thing.

Allow a good two hours if you want to explore both sections properly. The walking can be challenging in places - steep slopes and uneven ground mean it's not suitable for pushchairs or anyone with mobility issues.

For families staying at nearby sites like Sandyholme Holiday Park or Warmwell Holiday Park, it's a lovely contrast to beach days. The woods provide natural shelter on blustery Dorset days when the coast feels a bit harsh.