The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Puddletown Forest

The cafe located right next to the Greenwood Grange holiday cottages is actually named Under the Greenwood Tree Café. This independent, dog-friendly spot sits at the edge of Thorncombe Wood. It serves up delicious breakfasts, homemade cakes, and local ice cream, making it a perfect post-walk rest stop.

Tucked away in Higher Bockhampton, Hardy’s Cottage is the charming birthplace of acclaimed author Thomas Hardy. Built out of traditional cob and thatch by his great-grandfather in 1800, this modest home is where Hardy lived for his first 34 years. Inside, the small windows, open hearths, and stone floors vividly reflect the simple realities of 19th-century rural life. It was in this very house that he penned early literary masterpieces like Far from the Madding Crowd. Today, the National Trust protects the property, which features a quintessential English cottage garden bursting with roses and birdsong.

Nestled in Dorset, Puddletown Forest is a peaceful escape perfect for a slow day. You can wander along scenic, shaded trails, spot local wildlife, or head to the western edge to see Thomas Hardy’s historic birthplace. It’s an ideal spot to take the dog, breathe the fresh air, and just unwind.

Had no idea this section had such a name. I really should pay more attention to where I go! lol

Warning: Busy two-way highway with no way for pedestrians/hikers to cross safely. My Thomas Hardy walk (from the route book and Komoot) was forced to end here. There's a bus stop and a rest stop on your right with a food truck (Gingerbread Café) during the day. Check timetables if you plan to take the bus at this point. I have no idea how the route planners and trail creators envisioned this. Unless I missed something at this point. In that case, please add tips to this highlight :)

The start of a beautiful stretch through hilly meadows where cows graze and can be muddy. Warning! This path ends at the A35, a busy motorway where there is no safe crossing for pedestrians. You could also choose to cross Slyer's Lane at this point and continue along the footpaths towards Dorchester, for example. Once you leave the meadow, you'll first pass through a residential area. An alternative is to walk a short distance along Slyer's Lane, then possibly follow the footpaths towards Dorchester. However, I haven't tried this myself, and online reports mention heavy traffic on Slyer's Lane, making it unsafe for pedestrians. My advice would be to walk a short distance into the field to enjoy the scenery, and then walk back before the bend and continue along the footpaths.

2 benches to enjoy the view over the hills, the peace and good company..🐮

* Historic Structure: The cottage itself was built in 1800 by Hardy's great-grandfather and has remained largely unaltered since the Hardy family left. It offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life, with its open hearths, small windows, and stone floors. While the furniture inside isn't original to the Hardy family, it is authentic to the period, helping to recreate the atmosphere of his upbringing. * National Trust Property: The cottage is now owned and managed by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation and public access. * Traditional Cottage Garden: The property features a typical cottage garden, complete with roses around the door, which would have been an early inspiration for the author.