5 Unmissable Autumn Dog-Friendly Walks in Dorset

Autumn has arrived and the leaves have turned a gorgeous burnt orange. We’re spoiled for choice with some stunning walks from the door and close by — grab your coat and explore our favourites!

1.Walks without getting in the car

We’re fortunate to have some truly breathtaking walks right from the door. I’ve put together a selection of our favourite routes starting straight from The Old Forge, which you can view here. Whether you fancy climbing up to Fontmell Down or Melbury Beacon for sweeping countryside views, or prefer a shorter, gentler walk with less of an incline, there’s something for everyone.

2. Hambledon and Hod Hill

Child Okeford, Dorset, DT11 8HD (10 minute drive)

Hambledon Hill is one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks, rising steeply to 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale and the River Stour. Its worth the climb, the views are spectacular!

It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is both an archaeological treasure and an ecological haven. It’s one of the best-preserved Iron Age hillforts in Britain, layered over one of Europe’s most significant Neolithic landscapes.

If you are visiting between Thursday - Saturday, stop by for a bite at Gold Hill Organics or stop by Meggy Moos for a coffee on the farm.

Paws for thought a great run for dogs. Please follow the Countryside code - clear up any mess, close gates behind you, and keep dogs on leads where there is livestock.

Entry free! Park in the very small car park in the woods at the bottom of the hill and start climbing.

3. Stourhead Gardens

near Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD (30 minute drive)

A short drive away is Stourhead, is a must-visit autumn walk. This world-famous National Trust landscape garden is centred around a shimmering lake, framed by sweeping lawns, classical temples, and woodland that glows with fiery colour in autumn.

There is 2,650 acres of countryside, Stourhead offers a wonderful mix of trails through ancient woodland, chalk downs, farmland, and even past Iron Age hillforts — perfect for exploring with your four-legged friend.

Be sure to visit Alfred’s Tower, a striking 160ft triangular folly on the wider estate that offers panoramic views across three counties. After your walk, you can refuel at the National Trust restaurant, farm shop or Inn.

Paws for thought Dogs are welcome across the wider estate all year round, and in the garden during the autumn and winter months — just remember your lead!

Entry free entry for National Trust members, non members - £22 per adult. Off-peak admission is available. Pay and display in our car park where car park charges will apply for non-members (£4.50). The wider estate is free to access.

4. Kingston Lacey

Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 4EA (30 minute drivee)

Another stunning National Trust location, Kingston Lacey offers acres of parkland and countryside walks that are perfect for autumn adventures. The grand house is surrounded by sweeping lawns grazed by pedigree Red Ruby Devon cattle and rare-breed Portland sheep, giving a real sense of Dorset’s rural heritage.

Explore over 8,500 acres of estate, with Iron Age hillforts, colourful heathland, water meadows, and miles of woodland and bridleway trails to enjoy. It’s a fantastic place for both two and four-legged visitors to stretch their legs and take in the changing colours of the season.

Paws for thought Dogs on leads are welcome in the car park, parkland, and courtyard by the Stables restaurant. They can also explore the wider estate, where there are plenty of trees to sniff and grass to roll in! Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the café, house, and formal gardens — just make sure they’re wearing their identity harness.

Entry Free for National Trust members. For non-members, admission is £22 per adult, with off-peak options available. Parking is free for members; non-members can use the pay and display car park (£4.50). The wider estate and many of the walking routes are free to access all year round.

5. Sherborne Castle and Gardens

Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 5NR (30 minute drive)

Sherborne Castle is a truly enchanting spot for an autumn walk. The historic estate is surrounded by 42 acres of beautifully designed Gardens and Pleasure Grounds, with paths and trails offering spectacular views across more than 1,000 acres of parkland. Wander around the 50-acre lake, taking in picturesque garden features such as Raleigh’s Seat, The Cascade, and the charming Fossil House.

Paws for thought Dogs are welcome in the Gardens provided they are kept on a short lead at all times. Please clear up any mess and place in a litter bin. Dogs (except for guide or assistance dogs) are not permitted inside the Castle.

Entry gardens open April - Nov £14 per person, castle May - Sept and gardens £19.50 per person.