The best walks and hikes around Puddletown
4.5
(1013)
6,712
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18
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Hikes around Puddletown explore a landscape dominated by woodlands and gentle hills in the heart of Dorset. The region is characterized by the extensive Puddletown Forest, which covers a large portion of the area with a mix of conifer and broadleaf trees. The terrain features well-defined footpaths and bridleways, with routes crossing the River Piddle and passing historical sites like Thomas Hardy's Cottage.
Best hiking trails around Puddletown
- The most popular hiking route is Roman Road, Puddletown Forest – Thomas…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.7
(7)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(14)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
9.43km
02:34
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Are the hiking trails around Puddletown suitable for dogs?
Yes, the Puddletown area is very dog-friendly. Puddletown Forest is a popular spot where dogs can often be walked off-leash, provided they are under close control. Many of the footpaths and bridleways in the region are suitable for walking with your canine companion. For a specific route, consider the Thomas Hardy's Cottage – Roman Road, Puddletown Forest loop from Tincleton, which explores the woodlands dogs love.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks near Puddletown?
Absolutely. The region offers several easier walks perfect for a family outing. The trails through Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve are particularly well-suited for families, offering shaded paths and opportunities for nature spotting. Many of the 11 easy-rated trails in the area are short, gentle loops that are great for all ages.
Where can I find a good circular walk that starts and ends in Puddletown?
Puddletown is an excellent base for circular hikes, meaning you can easily start and finish your walk in the same place without needing to retrace your steps. The area is known for its network of loops through Puddletown Forest and the surrounding countryside, with options for various lengths and difficulties.
Is it possible to reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, Puddletown is accessible by bus, which allows you to reach the start of several trails without a car. You can take a bus to the village and begin your walk from there, accessing the network of public footpaths that lead into Puddletown Forest and the wider Dorset National Landscape.
Where is the best place to park for a walk in Puddletown Forest?
There are several parking options for accessing the trails. A popular choice is the car park near Thomas Hardy's Cottage, which provides direct access to the paths in Thorncombe Wood and Puddletown Forest. This is a convenient starting point for many of the area's well-trodden circular routes.
Are there any hikes with a pub along the route?
Many walks in the area can be planned to include a stop at a traditional pub in Puddletown or a nearby village. After exploring the local footpaths and bridleways, you can finish your hike in the village for a well-earned refreshment. It's a classic way to end a day of walking in Dorset.
What are the best places for hiking in the Puddletown area?
The region is full of fantastic hiking spots. Key areas include:
- Puddletown Forest: A highly-regarded, expansive woodland with a vast network of paths for all abilities.
- Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve: A popular favorite, especially for its shaded trails and connection to Thomas Hardy's Cottage.
- Dorset National Landscape (AONB): Encompasses the wider area, offering hikes through classic Dorset scenery of rolling hills and heathland.
- Duddle Heath nature reserve: A quieter option for those looking to explore the local heathland environment.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in the area?
While the area is known for gentle woodland walks, you can find more challenging options. For a longer day out, consider the Thomas Hardy's Cottage – Black Bottom loop from Dorset. This moderate 9.2 km (5.7 mi) route offers a more extensive exploration of the countryside and woodlands.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a hike around Puddletown?
The landscape is quintessentially Dorset. Expect to walk through large, well-managed woodlands like Puddletown Forest, with a mix of conifer and broadleaf trees. Trails often follow historic paths, including sections of Roman road, and cross the gentle River Piddle. You'll also find yourself in the rolling hills and heathlands characteristic of the Dorset National Landscape.
How many hiking trails are there around Puddletown?
You'll find a great selection of routes to explore. There are nearly 20 curated hiking tours available around Puddletown, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate loops. The majority are rated as easy or moderate, making the area accessible for most fitness levels.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Puddletown?
The trails around Puddletown are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths through the beautiful woodlands, the peaceful atmosphere, and the historical interest of routes that pass sites like Thomas Hardy's Cottage.
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