Dorset is one of the best places to be during autumn, with the vast misty countryside landscapes to the vibrant shades of the turning leaves.
Exploring the county on foot during this season offers a great experience for all ages. With the weather turning cooler yet still warm enough to enjoy being outside, there are lots of places to admire the autumnal scenery and crunchy leaves.
Whether you’re a casual walker, a seasoned hiker, looking for a cheap activity with the children or a romantic walk, each trail offers lots of fantastic adventures to enjoy.
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Moor Crichel Walk
Nestled in the heart of Cranborne Chase, Moor Crichel offers a delightful autumn experience. Known for its magical avenue of beech trees, this walk is a visual treat.
As you weave through the village, the vibrant reds and golds paint a stunning picture.
Located just a short distance from Blandford Forum, the 4.20-mile trail starts at the historic Crichel House archway. The clearly marked paths and gentle terrain make it suitable for walkers of all fitness levels.
Although the church of St Mary isn’t open to visitors, the Crichel House estate offers plenty to admire from afar.
This walk is perfect for autumnal scenery and quiet surroundings.
To find out more about the route, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 4.20 miles
- Duration: 1 hour 48 minutes
- Route: Crichel House gate and arch loop from Witchampton
- Easy route
📍 Starting Point: Crichel House Archway, Wimborne BH21 5AZ
Beech Avenue And Droves Walk, Kingston Lacy
The Beech Avenue and Droves walk offers a memorable autumn experience. This circular trail lets walkers revel in the stunning scenery as they journey along a mile-long avenue planted in 1835 by William John Bankes for his mother, Lady Bankes.
The trees create a golden canopy that is breathtaking, especially in the autumn months.
The walk starts at South Lodge, where visitors can step into a path lined with vibrant colours. It’s a dog-friendly route, perfect for an afternoon outing.
With waymarks guiding the way, there’s no chance of losing sight of the beautiful beech trees.
To learn more about this walk, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 3.8 miles
- Time to Complete: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Dog friendly
- Moderate route
📍 Starting Point: South Lodge, at the junction of Abbott Street and Sandy Lane, Wimborne
Brownsea Island Circular
Brownsea Island is a hidden gem for autumn walks. Accessible by ferry from Poole Quay, it offers a car-free, peaceful environment perfect for families.
The island’s highlight is its population of red squirrels, which are especially active during the autumn months.
Visitors can explore various trails, each offering a chance to witness stunning autumn foliage.
Self-led and guided walks from wooded paths to open heathland let you enjoy the island at your own pace.
The 4.5 km circular trail is moderately challenging but takes only about an hour to complete.
The crisp air enhances the tranquillity of the island, allowing walkers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the season.
To learn more about this route, visit here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 4.5 km
- Time to Complete: Approximately 1 hour
- No dogs allowed
- Easy / Moderate route
📍 Starting Point: Brownsea Island Ferry Terminal, Poole BH13 7EE
Colmers Hill Walk
Colmers Hill Walk is a lovely loop trail near Bridport. This 3.2-km route is a joy for hikers, runners, and walkers. It offers a peaceful trek with stunning views, especially from the top.
The climb up Colmers Hill offers rewarding panoramic views of the Dorset landscape. On a clear day, you can even see Portland in the distance. Its iconic shape, topped with pine trees, makes it a popular spot for photographers.
The trek starts at West Road in Bridport, and those taking the trail should wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain, as it can become muddy. The Ilchester Arms provides a charming spot for refreshments along the way.
To learn more, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 3.2 km
- Average Duration: 56 minutes
- Easy route
📍 Starting Point: West Road, Bridport DT6 6AA
Corfe Common History Walk
Corfe Common offers an enchanting autumnal experience. This moderate walk weaves through a sandstone ridge just south of Corfe Castle’s charming village.
Start your journey at the majestic Corfe Castle ruins before strolling past St Edward the Martyr’s church.
Low humps along the way are remains of Bronze Age burial mounds dating back 4000 years ago. The vivid autumn leaves enhance the beauty of the landscape.
Meanwhile, the gentle ridge offers magnificent views of the castle nestled in the colourful autumn setting.
To learn more about this trail, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Time to Complete: 1-1.5 hours
- Moderate route
- Dog Friendly
- Please keep to footpaths to avoid eroding the beautiful landscape
📍 Starting Point: Corfe Castle Ticket Office, Wareham BH20 5EZ
Shaftesbury And Gold Hill Circular
The Shaftesbury and Gold Hill Circular is a delightful 5.8-kilometre trail offering stunning views and a glimpse into Dorset’s charm.
It starts at the Bell Street Car Park and takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete.
Walkers are treated to the unique architecture of Shaftesbury, featuring a mix of thatched and stone properties.
The walk leads through peaceful country lanes and presents two main viewpoints.
From here, you can see Glastonbury Tor to the northwest and Melbury Hill to the south.
No trip is complete without a stroll down Gold Hill, famous for being in the 1970s Hovis advert. You can even stay on this famous road if you fancy it.
To find out more about this walk, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 5.8 km Circular
- Time to Complete: About 1 hour 44 minutes
- Dogs allowed on a lead
- Easy route
📍 Starting Point: Bell Street Car Park, Shaftesbury SP7 8AP
Evershot Circular
The Evershot Circular trail is a 6.6 km journey near Beaminster. This easy-going route is bursting with vibrant colours and stunning landscapes.
Enjoy this walk for its tranquillity, experiencing the quiet beauty of the season.
The circular path winds through fairy-tale woodlands, creating an idyllic escape. The trail, which typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete, welcomes hikers, walkers, and runners.
Its popularity doesn’t deter moments of solitude for those seeking peace.
Starting from Park Lane in Evershot, visitors are advised to dress in layers and wear proper footwear, especially after rain when paths can be muddy.
Autumn is the perfect time to visit, with the foliage creating a mesmerising backdrop.
To discover the route, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 6.6 km
- Time to Complete: Approx. 1 hour 43 minutes
- Easy route
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 Starting Point: Park Lane, Evershot, Dorchester DT2 0JY
Wimborne To Pamphill Circular
Adventure awaits on the Wimborne to Pamphill Circular trail! This delightful 7.2 km path is perfect for families and friends seeking a relaxed walk through nature.
Starting in Wimborne Minster, the route passes the scenic River Stour. It then winds through picturesque farmlands, leading towards the charming village of Pamphill.
The woodland loop offers a feast for the eyes, especially in autumn. Here, walkers can admire the stunning orange and red hues of the leaves.
This walk is a popular destination from March to November. It’s great not just for walking but also for running and hiking.
To learn more about this walk, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 7.2 km
- Duration: 1 hour 47 mins
- Dog friendly
- Easy route
- There’s a great farm shop in Pamphill
📍 Starting Point: Old Road Car Park, Wimborne BH21 1EG
Minterne Magna Circular
Minterne Magna Circular offers a delightful experience for anyone wanting to relish the autumn beauty in Dorset.
This 8.5-km loop near Dorchester boasts a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the autumn months, when the leaves transform into rich hues.
The moderately challenging route takes roughly 2 hours and 34 minutes. It’s ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and running, providing both activity and tranquillity.
Along this trail, walkers are treated to a splendid view of the Cerne Abbas Giant. The path can be quite muddy during wetter conditions, especially in the rougher areas, so caution is advised.
To learn the route for this walk, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 8.5 km
- Time to Complete: About 2 hours 34 minutes
- Moderate / Challenging route
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 Starting Point: Kettle Bridge Car Park, Dorchester DT2 7GY
Hardy’s Cottage
Discover the enchanting 1.1 km trail to Thomas Hardy’s Cottage near Dorchester. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, this loop is perfect for a family walk.
As you wander, the vibrant autumn leaves create a stunning backdrop, leading the way to the quaint cob and thatch cottage.
The cottage, the birthplace of the famous novelist and poet, offers a glimpse into his early life. Accessible only by guided tours, visitors need to book in advance.
The surrounding woodlands provide a tranquil setting for reflection, photographs and exploring.
To find out more, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 1.1 km
- Time to Complete: Average of 21 minutes
- Appropriate footwear advised
- Easy route
- Dog friendly
📍 Starting Point: Thorncombe Wood Car Park, Dorchester DT2 8QH
Hod Hill Circular
The Hod Hill Circular presents a delightful 2.7-km loop trail. This easy pathway is perfect for a tranquil 50-minute escape into history and nature.
Walkers will encounter ruins reminiscent of Roman and Iron Age times. The ridged earth tells tales of ancient dwellings and borders, allowing walkers to step back in time.
As you walk, the chalky hills host vibrant flora and fauna and cattle occasionally grazing close by.
Dogs are welcome on a lead, making it a great family outing. With little traffic and stunning views, expect an enriching experience.
To find out the route for this trail, click here.
🍂 Good to know:
- Distance: 2.7 km
- Completion Time: 50 minutes
- Easy / Moderate route
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 Starting Point: Hod Hill Car Park, Blandford Forum DT11 8TQ
