With the days getting shorter and autumn drawing in, Dorset looks beautiful as it changes with the colours.
Taking a stroll through the woods in Dorset brings vibrant foliage and a peaceful atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else, making the county's forests and estates perfect for exploring on foot over the weekend.
So, with that, here are five woodland walks you can try this weekend in Dorset:
Located just west of Puddletown and the River Piddle, this large area of woodland has miles upon miles of footpaths to explore.
It can also be reached by walking from Hardy's Cottage in Lower Bockhampton if you're feeling adventurous, along with bridleways galore making it a real journey through history.
Mountain bike trails are unauthorised however if those were your plans but it is still cyclable.
Thorncombe Woods
Thorncombe Woods (Image: Tracy Pidgley) One for every local nature enthusiast, these historic woods are home to Thomas Hardy's birthplace.
The 26 hectare woodland and heath site is home to a great diversity of trees including mature Oaks, Sweet Chestnut and Beech and herds of ponies. Rushy Pond, made famous in Hardy's novels is home to amphibians and resident grass snakes.
A Roman road passes through the site which would have connected Dorchester to other local ancient sites and guide walks are often offered for those wanting to learn more.
Milldown Nature Reserve (Image: Colin Lennox-Gordon) Not far from Blandford's town centre, the Milldown Nature Reserve provides a spot of peace and quiet.
It offers fabulous views of the Blackmore Vale and would be a perfect spot for dog-walking.
The North Dorset Trailway and River Stour lie nearby which is home to otters, so that may be worth a detour on a fine day.
Black Down
Black Down (Image: Andrew Hepburn) Black Down surround the famous and iconic Dorset landmark of Hardy's Monument and is a part of the South Dorset Ridgeway ancient landscape.
This site really offers it all, coastal views, woodland walks and ancient barrows and awesome wildlife making it the perfect picnic spot. There is a free car park on site, but the opening hours are restricted.
Pucketts Wood
Puckett Wood (Image: Annie Collins) Found off Stoke Road near Stoke Abbot close to Beaminster in a river valley, this peaceful spot in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has two public footpaths allowing you to get lost and immerse yourself in nature for the day.
It's filled with all sorts of wildlife, and is a popular spot for photographers getting a detailed shot of nature at work.
Thanks to Dorset Camera Club on Facebook for these incredible snaps.