Exploring the natural beauty of Dorset is a must for anyone who loves adventure and being out in nature. With a variety of landscapes ranging from rolling hills to stunning coastlines, there is something for everyone to appreciate.
These locations are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying the serene environment.
This guide will help you find hidden gems that you might not have heard of, as well as well-known spots. Each reserve and park has its own distinct character, ensuring that every visit is a new adventure.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something that everyone can enjoy, from scenic woodlands to fun child-orientated walking trails.
Here is a list of the Nature Reserves and Country Parks in Dorset, have fun exploring!
Moors Valley Country Park And Forest
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest offers an exciting escape into nature with a host of activities spread across 1000 acres.
Explore walking and cycling trails through lush woodlands and meadows. With adventure play areas and a Gruffalo sculpture trail, there’s plenty for families.
Children can enjoy Adventure Valley with Mini Land Rovers, while adults can unwind on serene walks along the lakes and rivers. Dogs are also welcome, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Seasonal events organised by Rangers offer everything from wildlife discovery sessions for children to guided walks for adults.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Places to eat and drink
- Dog-Friendly, but must be kept on a lead
- Wheelchair and scooter hire, accessible toilets
📍 Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Dorset BH24 2ET
Durlston Country Park And National Nature Reserve
Durlston Country Park is a breathtaking location on the outskirts of Swanage. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of its sea cliffs and explore vibrant meadows and woodlands.
The park is renowned for its wildlife; more than 2,000 species have been spotted here. It is a wonderful spot for watching butterflies and seabirds like Guillemots, while the grassland is home to more than 500 kinds of wildflowers.
The park features the iconic Great Globe, one of the largest stone spheres on the planet. At Durlston Castle, guests can relish panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast, browse exhibitions, and enjoy a bite at the Seventh Wave café.
Families will find plenty to do with waymarked walking trails and adventures like the Wild Play Trail.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome
- A café and restaurant with superb views of the Jurassic Coast
- Provides the highest level of access, features Trampers for mobility access
📍 Lighthouse Rd, Swanage BH19 2JL
Avon Heath Country Park
Nestled in St Leonards, Avon Heath Country Park is a vibrant mix of heathland and woods. Awarded the prestigious Green Flag, it invites you to explore its trails, teaming with wildlife like sand lizards and silver-studded blue butterflies.
Visitors can enjoy the park’s café, adventure playground, and picnic areas. For a fun family day, try the treasure trails, especially during school holidays.
Experience the stunning views along three waymarked trails: The Sensory Trail, The Short Wander, and The Viewpoint Trail. These paths offer unique insights into the park’s rare habitats.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Dog friendly
- Café, picnic areas and playground available
- Tramper scooter for hire for those with mobility needs
📍 Brocks Pine, St Leonards, Ringwood, Dorset BH24 2DH
Upton Country Park
Upton Country Park is a true gem in Poole, ideal for family adventures. It boasts 160 acres of lush parkland and woodland, perfect for a day out. With 32 acres of formal gardens and 2.6 km of shoreline, there’s plenty to explore.
Visitors can admire the stunning Georgian Grade II* listed Upton House. Children will love Spurrier’s Play Park and the chance for a game on the front lawn.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, easily observed from bird hides near Hole’s Bay. Enjoy the calming Walled Garden or the adventure golf facilities.
Upton Country Park is an excellent day out for the whole family whatever the weather.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Accessible footpaths, accessible toilets
- Includes dog-friendly and dog-free zones
- Tea Rooms and a Welcome Centre
📍 Poole Rd, Upton, Poole BH17 7BJ
Lodmoor Country Park
Nestled in Weymouth, Lodmoor Country Park is a vibrant hub of activity and nature. Just a brief walk from the Esplanade, the park covers a vast 350 acres filled with diverse attractions.
Families delight in the Pirate Ship Play Park and Children’s Green Gym, perfect for young adventurers.
Visitors can enjoy the outdoor gym, with 21 free-to-use pieces of equipment set at different stations around a 2 km trail.
The park provides tables and bins throughout the year perfect for picnics and barbecue gatherings.
Explorers can embark on the Lodmoor Tree Trail, a 45-minute circular walk highlighting the park’s lovely trees.
The RSPB Nature Reserve nearby offers a wonderful opportunity to observe local wildlife.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Open year-round with free access
- Fully accessible with facilities for all needs
- Café and restaurant available
📍 Weymouth DT4 7SX
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve
The Blue Pool Nature Reserve is a captivating spot on the Isle of Purbeck, situated in the expansive 300-acre Furzebrook Estate.
It offers visitors an enchanting experience with its beautiful woodland walks, wildlife watching, and scenic viewpoints.
A standout feature is the UK’s longest rope bridge, providing a thrilling crossing over the water.
The tearooms at The Blue Pool combine timeless charm with Art Deco interiors, perfect for indulging in a delightful afternoon tea.
Visitors can sit on the terrace overlooking the pool, enjoying locally sourced dishes. The gift shop offers a range of unique items, including handmade creations from local artisans.
The site has a rich history as a former clay pit that dates back to the 17th century. After being abandoned, it filled with rainwater, resulting in the unique blue hues of the water.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Dogs on leads are welcome
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free parking available
📍 Furzebrook Rd, Wareham BH20 5AR
Arne Nature Reserve
Arne Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty in Dorset. It offers a diverse landscape, including heathland, mudflats, and ancient oak woodland.
Visitors can explore these varied habitats and spot wildlife such as spoonbills and Dartford warblers. The reserve is also a unique spot in the UK where all six native reptiles can be found.
The facilities at Arne include a café serving seasonal, locally sourced food and a shop with bird food, gifts, binoculars, and telescopes.
Families will enjoy the play area, which comes with a low-ropes course and den-building activities.
The reserve provides numerous opportunities for guided walks and special events throughout the year.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Pushchair and Wheelchair Accessible
- Café with delicious local treats and a Shop
- Dogs on a lead are welcome on designated dog-friendly trails
📍 Arne Rd, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve
Stanpit Marsh Nature Reserve in Christchurch is an exciting place to explore! Nestled on the north side of Christchurch Harbour, this 65-hectare haven is rich in biodiversity.
The reserve features a mix of salt marshes, reed beds, mudflats, and sandy scrubs, creating a unique environment.
Over 300 plant species can be found here, with 14 being nationally rare. The varied habitats attract a diverse array of wildlife, including numerous butterflies, dragonflies, and about 313 bird species.
Some birds breed here, while many visit during migrations.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the mostly flat terrain. Though some paths can become wet or slippery, there are raised bridges and resting spots available.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Accessible parking nearby
- Ground is generally flat but can get very wet
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead
📍 Stanpit, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3LX
Tout Quarry Nature Reserve And Sculpture Park
Tout Quarry Nature Reserve and Sculpture Park is a fascinating place on the Isle of Portland. It was once a busy stone quarry, but now it displays over 60 unique sculptures among its rocky paths.
Visitors can see works like Anthony Gormley’s ‘Still Falling’ and explore nature’s art in the form of wildflowers and butterflies.
The park began in 1983 with artists transforming this 40-acre site. It’s now a mix of art and nature, offering a glimpse into stone heritage with ongoing artist residencies.
Paths are mostly level with some gentle slopes, though visitors should be cautious of steep sections. Dogs on leads are welcome, making it perfect for a family outing.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Dogs on leads are welcome
- Open at all times, Free entry
- Car Park
📍 Isle of Portland, Dorset DT5 2LN
Steamer Point Nature Reserve
Steamer Point Nature Reserve is a delightful 24-acre site perched atop a cliff between Highcliffe Castle and Friar’s Cliff in Christchurch. This local nature reserve (LNR) offers breathtaking views of the sea, the Isle of Wight, and Hengistbury Head, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The reserve boasts a mix of habitats, including deciduous woodland, grassland, ponds, and wetland areas. This rich variety supports a host of flora and fauna.
Migratory birds and insects often stop here, attracted by this oasis within the coastal wildlife corridor.
Visitors can explore its informative centre, which features interactive displays for children to discover the wonders of nature.
The reserve is welcoming throughout the year, offering flat and accessible paths, picnic spots, and incredible scenic beauty.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Open All Year: Dog friendly with free entry
- Facilities: Pay-and-display car parks, nearby toilets
- Accessibility: Flat, with gravel paths and easy-access gates
📍 Christchurch, Dorset BH23 4AU
St Catherine’s Hill Nature Reserve
St Catherine’s Hill, a vibrant mix of heathland and coniferous forest, offers stunning views of Christchurch.
Rising 53 metres above sea level, it is the area’s highest point. This location is a haven for wildlife, including the Dartford Warbler and the sand lizard.
Visitors can enjoy the challenging climb up its wooden stairs. At the top, ancient earthworks and buried ruins of a Norman chapel can be explored.
This nature reserve is teeming with butterflies like the chalkhill blue and marbled white. In the warmer months, orchids add splashes of colour across the slopes. Wildlife thrives here due to the grazing by British White cattle.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Open all year, Dog-friendly, Free entry
- Parking: Available on Garnier Road
- Access: Paths are natural and can be uneven
📍 Sandy Ln, Christchurch BH23 2NL
Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve
Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve is an enchanting blend of woodland and heathland. Covering 26 hectares, it boasts a delightful array of trees, such as mature Oaks, Sweet Chestnuts, and Beeches.
Nestled within the area is Black Heath, an enchanting heathland where Dartmoor ponies roam freely.
The Roman road that runs through the reserve adds to its historical charm. This ancient pathway connects Dorchester to Badbury Rings and offers paths that lead to neighbouring areas like Puddletown Forest.
Visitors begin their adventure at Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre, replete with engaging displays, a café, and a shop.
A great spot for picnics, though barbecues and campfires are prohibited to maintain safety.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Dogs allowed on leads
- Open access area, no cycling or horse riding
- Picnic areas available; no barbecues or campfires
📍 Thorncombe Wood, Dorchester DT2 8QH
Lorton Meadows Nature Reserve
Lorton Meadows in Weymouth is a delightful escape with its serene green meadows, hedgerows, and woodlands teeming with wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy vibrant sights and sounds, like barn owls at night and song thrushes by day. Trails wind through this patchwork of lush meadows and thickets, inviting an exploration of its diverse habitats.
In summer, the area buzzes with insect life. Butterflies, dragonflies, and even rare wildflowers such as orchids and corky-fruited water dropwort can be spotted.
Bats like noctules benefit from the rich foraging opportunities while the sounds of birds fill the air.
Lorton Meadows is accessible to everyone all year with no entry fee. There is a picnic area, and dogs are welcome on leads. Care should be taken around grazing cattle.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Open all year, free entry
- Picnic area available
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 Lorton Ln, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 5QH
Purewell Meadows Nature Reserve
Nestled in Christchurch, Purewell Meadows boasts 14 hectares of beautiful landscapes. This nature reserve features wet meadows located within the River Avon floodplain.
While 4 hectares are accessible to the public, the remaining area is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Visitors will find a vibrant mix of grasses and sedges alongside charming flowering plants, creating a beautiful backdrop.
The meadows are open all year, and entry is free. Guests should be prepared for wet conditions, especially after rain.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Features: Free entry, limited parking
- Accessibility: Mostly flat, but can be wet
- Dogs on lead are welcome
📍 Purewell, Christchurch BH23 3AB
Nea Meadows Nature Reserve
Nea Meadows Nature Reserve in Christchurch offers a delightful escape into nature. It has a mix of meadows, wetlands, and woodland.
Visitors can wander along the gravel paths and pause at numerous seating spots. The site was once the parkland for an 18th-century estate, adding a touch of history to its natural charm.
This 5.5-hectare reserve is a haven for wildlife. It boasts more than 250 wildflower species and serves as a key corridor for migrating species, enhancing its ecological significance.
The main lake was built as a flood defence. Though its species variety is limited, it supports various coarse fish. Fishing is allowed only for members of the Christchurch Angling Club, ensuring a peaceful environment.
🌱 Good to Know:
- Dog Friendly
- Open all year, free entry
- Car park available, nearby toilets
📍 Smugglers Lane South, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 4NG
