Five autumnal walks to try across Dorset

A spectrum of warm colours hang overhead whilst multiple layers (and most definitely a raincoat) are advised to anyone venturing out at this time of year.

With Halloween a week away leading to the looming stress of Christmas, now is a time to take stoke and enjoy the peace before the annual stress of the festive period begins.

So, if you are at a loss end this weekend and want to enjoy nature in all its vibrant glory, here are five autumnal walks to enjoy

Purbeck Ridgeway

Distance: 9.5 miles

Difficulty: Medium

Starting at the majestic ruins of Corfe Castle, with the comforting view of Old Harry Rocks in the distance, take the scenic route along the coastal path in the direction of Swanage.

Make sure to stop and take in the spectacular view of Poole Harbour and Swanage as its comes into view, and all the way over to the Isle of Wight.

There are plenty of cafés and delicatessens to choose from in the seaside town to spurn you on along the walk or enjoy a drink or two and climb aboard the historic Swanage Railway or take the number 40 bus to return to Corfe Castle. The perfect round trip.

Brownsea Island

Distance: 1 mile

Difficulty: Easy

After a short boat trip from either Poole Harbour or Swanage, visitors will be transported to another kingdom once they reach the shores of the National Trust’s Brownsea Island.

With its abundant and diverse wildlife and rich history, walkers can amble around the island and take in the stunning views to the Purbeck Hills and find pout peaceful spots to gaze across Poole Harbour.

But keep your wits about you if you want to catch a glimpse of the illusive red squirrels, camouflage among the carpet of autumn leaves.

Search for wildlife in the lily ponds, discover hidden ruins or forage for chestnuts, but unfortunately you’ll have to leave your dogs at home.

Hardy’s Cottage Discovery Trail

Distance: 7 mile

Difficulty: Medium

Set in the beautiful Thorncombe Woods, retrace the steps of famous novelist and poet Thomas Hardy to his home and birthplace.

From Dorchester, it a relatively easy walk, although wellies are strongly advised following the recent wet weather.

Visit Stinsford Church, the resting place of Hardy’s heart (his body was interred at Westminster Abbey) and of his two wives, before continuing on to Hardy’s Cottage itself.

The pretty cottage is open to the public every day from March until the end of October and from Thursday to Sunday during November and December.

Why not stop off for a warming coffee or hot chocolate at the Greenwood Cafe next to the Visitor Centre to help spurn you on.

Raleigh’s Country Retreat at Sherborne

Distance: 6.4 miles

Difficult: Medium

This walk is a real spectacle.

A three-hour-long route may sound like a while but you’ll not be disappointed with the rolling hills and dairy villages south of Sherborne giving way to the open parkland and woodland of the splendid Sherborne Castle estate.

The 30 acres 'Capability Brown' gardens are planted with trees including Acers Japanese Maples, providing the perfect autumnal backdrop for some sesasjnal; snaps among the autumnal leaf colours.

South Dorset Ridgeway

Distance: 17.7 miles

Difficulty: Medium

And for those who fancy stomping a little further and want to get their steps in for the day, why not take on the South Dorset Ridgeway.

Despite being a fair distance from the sea, it is the original part of the South West Coast Path National Trail.

The route also gives walkers a glimpse into Dorset’s past, with stone circles to ancient hill forts linking the scenic path.

Be careful to not miss the iconic views over Fleet Lagoon, Britain’s largest tidal lagoon, and Dorset’s famous White Horse.