The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Puddletown Forest
4.6
(413)
2,496
hikers
207
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Puddletown Forest traverse a diverse woodland landscape, characterized by a mix of conifer and broadleaf trees. The area features gentle hills and well-defined footpaths, with the River Piddle often crossing the routes. Hikers can explore varied terrain, including sections of ancient Roman road and areas around Thomas Hardy's Cottage.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Puddletown Forest
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Roman Road, Puddletown Forest – Thomas Hardy's Cottage loop from…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.7
(7)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
25
hikers
7.80km
02:05
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(14)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Had no idea this section had such a name. I really should pay more attention to where I go! lol
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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 :)
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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.
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2 benches to enjoy the view over the hills, the peace and good company..🐮
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* 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.
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* Hardy's Early Life and Works: Hardy lived in this cottage until he was 34 years old. It was here that he wrote some of his early and influential works, including the novels Under the Greenwood Tree (1872) and Far from the Madding Crowd (1874), as well as early poetry and short stories. The surrounding landscape, including the adjacent Thorncombe Wood and the heathland (which inspired his fictional "Egdon Heath" in The Return of the Native), profoundly influenced his writing.
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Thomas Hardy's Cottage is a significant literary landmark located in Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset, England. It is a quaint, cob and thatch cottage, notable for being the birthplace of the celebrated author Thomas Hardy in 1840. Here's what makes it special:
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Lovely aspect whcih you can se in the great photo. Good spot when doing any number of walks in Puddletown forest and around. Harye's Cottace neatby - I think you have to book with he National Trust currently.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails can I find in Puddletown Forest?
Puddletown Forest offers a wide selection of routes suitable for families. You'll find nearly 200 hiking trails, with over 100 classified as easy and many more as moderate, ensuring there's something for every family's ability level.
Are there any easy, short walks perfect for families with young children?
Yes, for families seeking a shorter, easier option, consider the Thomas Hardy's Cottage – Dorset Singletrack Trail loop from Hardy’s Cottage. This easy route covers about 6.7 km and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, offering gentle paths through the forest.
What kind of landscape can we expect to see on a family hike in Puddletown Forest?
Puddletown Forest features a diverse woodland with a mix of conifer and broadleaf trees, creating varied and scenic terrain. You'll encounter gentle hills, well-defined footpaths, and bridleways. The landscape is also shaped by the River Piddle, which trails often cross, adding to the picturesque scenery. For those seeking a bit more elevation, Green Hill and Beacon Hill offer rewarding ascents with views.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the trails?
Absolutely! Many trails pass by significant points of interest. A notable attraction is Thomas Hardy's Cottage, the birthplace of the famous writer. You might also encounter the beautiful Rhododendron Mile, especially stunning when in bloom, and the tranquil Rushy Pond.
Are the family-friendly trails in Puddletown Forest suitable for dogs?
Yes, Puddletown Forest is generally dog-friendly, making it a great place for family walks with your canine companions. Many trails welcome dogs, but please ensure they are kept under control, especially due to the presence of ground-nesting birds and native reptiles in the forest.
Are there circular routes available for families?
Many of the family-friendly routes in Puddletown Forest are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Roman Road, Puddletown Forest – Thomas Hardy's Cottage loop from Athelhampton and Puddletown, a moderate 8.1 km hike that takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.
What is the best time of year to visit Puddletown Forest with family?
Puddletown Forest is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant new growth and the famous rhododendron blooms along the Rhododendron Mile. Summer offers pleasant conditions for walks under the tree canopy. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter provides peaceful, crisp walks. The best time depends on your family's preference for scenery and weather.
What facilities are available near the family trails, such as cafes or toilets?
While there are no facilities directly within the main woodland area, a seasonal cafe and toilets are available at the National Trust's Thomas Hardy's Cottage, which is conveniently located on the western fringe of the forest and accessible from several trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Puddletown Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and peace of the extensive woodland, the well-defined paths suitable for various skill levels, and the opportunity to connect with nature away from the crowds.
Can we spot any wildlife during our family hike?
Puddletown Forest is recognized for its ecological importance and is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for rare insects, ground-nesting birds like woodlark, and native reptiles such as sand lizards and smooth snakes. The varied woodland provides a rich habitat for many species.
Is there a longer, moderate family hike that explores more of the forest?
For families looking for a more extensive exploration, the Roman Road, Puddletown Forest – Thomas Hardy's Cottage loop from Hardy’s Cottage offers a moderate 13.5 km route. This trail takes approximately 3 hours 40 minutes and provides a thorough experience of the forest's varied woodland scenery.
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