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Autumn Walks in Dorset

As the days begin to shorten and the leaves crunch beneath our feet, we know Autumn has well and truly arrived. So, wrap up warm and get out the house to explore some of Dorset's best autumnal walks – since in our opinion, it is the BEST time of year to enjoy nature!

You can’t beat a leisurely stroll on a crisp, Autumn day, so we’ve rounded up Dorset's most Instagram-worthy, autumnal walks for you to enjoy.

old thatch

Uddens & Cannon Hill

About: Start your day with lunch at The Old Thatch, then embark on a scenic autumn walk through the leafy Uddens Plantation and Cannon Hill woodlands. The changing seasons create a vibrant backdrop, perfect for enjoying the crisp air and colorful foliage. Take advantage of the natural beauty right on our doorstep! For a leisurely walk, cycle, or even a horse ride, explore the Castleman Trailway. This 16.5-mile (26.5-kilometer) route is one of Dorset’s easiest way-marked paths, following much of the former Southampton to Dorchester railway line.

Address: 285 Wimborne Road, Wimborne, Dorset

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goods yard

Delph Woods

About: Begin your journey at The Goods Yard, where charming pathways guide you into the tranquil Delph Woods. This 2.4-kilometer trail, surrounded by ancient trees and serene landscapes, offers an ideal retreat into Dorset's countryside. As you explore, you’ll cross footbridges over shallow streams and discover a perfect picnic spot on the grassy area near the cricket ground. After your peaceful walk, return to The Goods Yard for some warm hospitality.

Address: 14 Station Approach, Broadstone, Dorset, BH18 8AX

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Upton Country Park Poole

Upton Country Park

About: Upton Country Park is gorgeous award-winning Country Park near Holes Bay, with 160 acres of parkland and woodland to explore.

The estate is a delight at any time of year, but the gardens and grounds truly flourish with burnt orange, deep red and sunshine yellow colours in the autumn time. The woodland walks are a highlight, as crunchy leaves scatter the ground giving you plenty of photo opportunities!

Address: Upton Country Park, Poole BH17 7BJ

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Brownsea Island

Brownsea Island

About: Brownsea Island is a hotspot for both locals and tourists in the summer, and there’s no change when Autumn rolls around either!

Brownsea Island is the perfect location to spend a crisp Autumn day, where you can spot native red squirrels (one of the few places in England where you can see them) and wander through the ever-changing colour woodlands.

Address: Regular ferries can be picked up from Poole Quay - BH15 1HP

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Compton Acres Poole

Compton Acres

About: Compton Acres is the true definition of ‘good things come in small packages’. These fine gardens may only stretch across 10 acres of land, but it’s a showstopper – especially during Autumn!

Once the gorgeous summer colours fade out through September, the gardens are replaced by stunning autumnal colours and crunchy leaves – a definite visit for all this season!

Address: Canford Cliffs Road, Poole, BH13 7ES

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poole park

Poole Park, Baiter Park and White Cliff

About: The walk from Poole Park through Baiter Park and Whitecliff Park offers stunning views and peaceful green spaces, perfect for a relaxing day out. This circular route weaves along the edge of Poole Harbour, showcasing beautiful sights across the water, with sailboats and wildlife creating a picturesque backdrop.

The route is lovely in every season, but especially so in the autumn when the crisp air and golden hues of the trees create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The path is lined with vibrant foliage, and the parks offer plenty of photo opportunities with the sea and nature merging seamlessly.

Address: Poole Park, Poole BH15 2SF

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Corfe Castle Poole

Purbeck Ridgeway

About: The Purbeck Ridgeway Walk is a popular one in Autumn, stretching from the historic ruins of Corfe Castle to the coast, towards Old Harry Rocks. Start your journey at The Old Greyhound in Corfe Castle village; this is the perfect spot to get yourself fueled up for your walk, as their outdoor area has a stunning view of the famous castle.

This 9 mile walk is definitely one to do in the Autumn months, as it offers truly spectacular autumnal views over Poole Harbour and the bay towards Isle of Wight. 

Address: Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
 

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Wareham Forest

Wareham Forest is just 12 miles from Poole and has many trails to explore. It's a perfect spot for autumn walks even when weather isn't playing ball; the dense forest will provide shelter from wind and rain and it just adds to the woodland scents and autumn colours.

The 2 mile Woodlark Trail can be followed from the Sika Trail car park off the Bere Road or via the Northport Greenway and The Wareham Forest Way walking trail will take you through the forest between Wareham Quay and Sturminster Marshall.

Address: Wareham Forest, BH20 7EJ

Arne Nature Reserve

Arne Nature Reserve

About: Arne Nature Reserve sits adjacent to Poole Harbour and offers a huge space for you to explore, even going right up to the water’s edge.

This special nature reserve is a haven for wildlife and becomes even more magical in the Autumn time, with crunchy leaves scattering the paths and golden glowing sunshine (if you’re lucky!) – a truly gorgeous spot to visit this Autumn. 

Address: Arne Rd, Arne, Wareham BH20 5BJ
 

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