The Cranborne Chase AONB is home to five charming nature reserves.

Not far from Shaftesbury, Oysters Coppice Nature Reserve is tucked away on a gentle slope and is home to an ancient woodland that features a mixture of oak, alder, ash and birch trees. The forest is also known for its array of wild flowers, including daffodils, ransoms and wood sorrel. Boggy areas, streams and swampy ponds offer a haven for wildlife, and bird watchers might want to keep an eye out for the bullfinch, song thrush and tawny owls that occupy the wood.

The Martin Down Nature Reserve might not offer up a dramatic landscape and challenging hikes, but what it does provide is a peaceful, gentle vista of open meadows, scrub and ancient hedge-lines. Ideal for a casual walk amongst nature and the perfect spot for a picnic, you can also take in the vast Bokerley Ditch (pictured). This big dyke winds its way down the western edge of Martin Down and historians believe it may have been built as a boundary in the Iron Age and fortified in the 5th or 6th centuries AD against the invading Saxons.

The remaining three nature reserves include Prescombe Down, which is tucked away far from the road and offers a peaceful, short walk across the chalk downland; Middleton Down, which curves and dips its way through a secluded reserve in the Chalke Valley and offers stunning views across the countryside; and Coombe Bissett Down, which encloses a 0.9 mile-long section of narrow, dry valley that’s home to grazing livestock and some delightful wild flowers.

Why visit the nature reserves of Cranborne Chase

• Ancient woodland: Discover Oysters Coppice, filled with oak, alder, ash and birch trees.
• Seasonal blooms: See wildflowers such as daffodils, ransoms and wood sorrel in spring and summer.
• Birdwatching haven: Look out for bullfinches, song thrushes and tawny owls among the trees.
• Open meadows: Wander through the gentle landscapes and ancient hedgerows of Martin Down.
• Historic landmark: Explore the Iron Age Bokerley Ditch, a fascinating earthwork steeped in history.
• Peaceful walking: Enjoy tranquil strolls across the chalk downland of Prescombe Down, far from busy roads.
• Scenic views: Take in the panoramic countryside vistas from the rolling slopes of Middleton Down.
• Wildlife and grazing: Spot livestock and wildflowers thriving in Coombe Bissett Down’s dry valley.
• Perfect picnic spots: Relax with a picnic or capture beautiful photos surrounded by nature.
• Quiet escape: Ideal for visitors seeking calm, history and wildlife in the heart of Dorset.

Ideal for groups travelling with children, Longleat Safari Park hosts a treasure trove of activities that all the family will love. Longleat sits in a beautiful slice of Wiltshire countryside and offers up a true adventure as you hop in your car and drive past tigers, lions, wolves and more amazing creatures from around the world. Or, why not set out on foot and walk with meerkats before boarding a train on the Longleat Railway to steam past lazy hippos and magnificent gorillas?

As well as the abundance of wildlife, Longleat Safari Park is also home to Longleat House, which is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain today. You can wander the grounds and formal gardens taking in the splendour with your loved ones. The park also offers kids play areas, a fantastic maze and also plays host to a number of seasonal events throughout the year!

Why visit Longleat Safari Park

• Family fun: Perfect for visitors of all ages, with activities to delight both kids and adults.
• Wildlife adventure: Drive through enclosures with lions, tigers, wolves and more from around the world.
• Unique experiences: Walk among meerkats or take a ride on the Longleat Railway past hippos and gorillas.
• Historic beauty: Explore the grand Longleat House, a masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture.
• Gardens and grounds: Wander through formal gardens and beautifully kept parkland.
• Kids’ activities: Enjoy play areas, a maze, and interactive exhibits to keep younger visitors entertained.
• Seasonal events: From light festivals to special animal experiences, there’s always something new happening.
• Scenic setting: Nestled in rolling Wiltshire countryside, it’s a stunning day out in nature.

How to get to Longleat

• By car: Longleat is just off the A36, near Warminster in Wiltshire. It’s easily reached from Bath (30 minutes), Salisbury (45 minutes) and Bristol (1 hour). On-site parking is available.
• By train: The nearest stations are Warminster and Westbury, both with regular services from Bath, Bristol and London. Taxis are available from the stations to the park.
• By bus: Local bus routes connect nearby towns such as Warminster and Frome with stops close to Longleat. Check timetables in advance as rural services can be limited.
• By tour or coach: Several operators run day trips to Longleat from cities like London, Bath and Bournemouth – ideal for visitors without a car.

If you are a big fan of the National Trust and love to spend your afternoons wandering around wonderfully manicured gardens then you’ll want to look no further than Stourhead House and Gardens.

Stourhead House sits up on a plateau of high ground overlooking the scenic countryside that surrounds it. You may enjoy a walk through the house itself, which was one of the first grand Palladian-style villas to be built in England, however, the real delight on offer here is the wonderful garden.

This inspiring garden, which was described as ‘a living work of art’ when first opened in the 1740s, features hills, ponds and some classical architecture as well as a lovely range of trees and shrubs. Be sure to wander the paths and you’ll be delighted at the many surprises that pop out at every turn.

If you want to venture slightly out from the house and gardens, you can explore the 2,500 acres of land that surrounds the estate. This sprawling countryside features an Iron Age hill fort, acres of ancient woodland and King Alfred's Tower - a 160ft high folly!

Why visit Stourhead House and Gardens

• Architectural beauty: Step inside one of England’s first Palladian-style villas, rich in history and design.
• Living art: Explore gardens once described as a ‘living work of art,’ filled with ponds, bridges and temples.
• Historic landscape: Wander among classical features like grottoes, follies and ornamental lakes.
• Natural splendour: Enjoy colourful displays of trees and shrubs that change beautifully with the seasons.
• Peaceful walks: Follow winding paths revealing new surprises at every turn.
• Wide open spaces: Venture into 2,500 acres of surrounding parkland and ancient woodland.
• King Alfred’s Tower: Climb this 160ft-high folly for spectacular views across Wiltshire and Somerset.
• Family friendly: Perfect for picnics, gentle walks and relaxed days out in nature.
• Photography paradise: Capture stunning shots of landscaped gardens, reflections and countryside vistas.
• National Trust gem: A must-visit destination for heritage lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.

How to get to Stourhead

• By car: Located near Mere in Wiltshire, just off the A303. It’s around 25 minutes from Frome, 45 minutes from Bath and 1 hour from Bristol. Ample parking is available on site.
• By train: The nearest stations are Gillingham (Dorset) and Warminster, both with connections from London, Salisbury and Bristol. Taxis are available to the estate from each station.
• By bus: Local bus services run from nearby towns, but schedules are limited – check in advance if travelling without a car.
• By bike or on foot: Stourhead is surrounded by quiet country lanes and footpaths, making it a pleasant destination for cyclists and walkers.

The charming village of Tisbury is often voted as one of the best places to live in the whole of the South West. It is steeped in over 2,000 years of history and offers an abundance of beautiful thatched cottages and winding country walks.

Lovers of classic British pubs will enjoy wandering the streets of Tisbury, bouncing from The Bennet Arms to the Boot Inn, before enjoying a delicious meal at the Mess Restaurant that offers creative, casual dining with a twist.

History lovers may also wish to visit St John’s, the 12th century parish church that sits in the centre of the village. The churchyard is home to a magnificent ancient yew tree that is over 4,000 years old!

The village is also nicely connected to the amazing network of public rights of way that can take you out into the scenic Wiltshire countryside towards a number of the area’s fantastic local attractions, including our next recommendation…

Why visit Tisbury

• Historic charm: Step back in time in a village with over 2,000 years of history.
• Beautiful architecture: Admire traditional thatched cottages and timeless village streets.
• Classic pubs: Enjoy local favourites like The Bennet Arms and The Boot Inn for a true English pub experience.
• Delicious dining: Sample creative, locally sourced dishes at The Mess Restaurant.
• Cultural heritage: Visit St John’s Church, a 12th-century gem at the heart of the village.
• Ancient wonder: See the incredible 4,000-year-old yew tree in the churchyard.
• Scenic walks: Explore the vast network of public footpaths connecting Tisbury to the Wiltshire countryside.
• Perfect base: Ideal for exploring nearby attractions within the Cranborne Chase AONB.
• Community spirit: Experience the warmth and friendliness that make Tisbury one of the South West’s most desirable villages.
• Peaceful atmosphere: A tranquil escape that blends heritage, hospitality and countryside beauty.

How to get to Tisbury

• By car: Tisbury is located just off the A30 between Salisbury and Shaftesbury. It’s around 25 minutes from Salisbury, 45 minutes from Bath and 1 hour from Bournemouth. Free and paid parking options are available in the village.
• By train: Tisbury has its own railway station on the Exeter to London Waterloo line, with regular services from Salisbury, Gillingham and London. The station is just a short walk from the village centre.
• By bus: Local buses connect Tisbury with surrounding towns and villages, though service frequency can vary, so check timetables in advance.
• By bike or on foot: Surrounded by scenic lanes and trails, Tisbury is a lovely stop for walkers and cyclists exploring Wiltshire’s countryside.

Situated not far from Tisbury, by a pretty lake in the Wiltshire countryside is Old Wardour Castle. Originally built in the 14th century, and heralded as one of the most daring and innovative homes in Britain, the castle is now a ruin that provides history lovers, couples and families with a peaceful day out.

If you want to learn about the history of the castle then be sure to take the free audio tour as you wander the ruin. You can hear about Lord Thomas Arundell who went to war during the Civil War in 1643, leaving his 60 year old wife Blanche to defend against attack!

Children will love exploring the different rooms of the ruined castle, and kids and adults alike will enjoy climbing to the top to enjoy the breathtaking views out across the countryside. And afterwards you can enjoy a picnic beneath the shade of an ancient tree in peace and tranquillity.

Why visit Old Wardour Castle

• Historic gem: Explore one of Britain’s most daring and innovative 14th-century castles.
• Beautiful location: Set beside a tranquil lake surrounded by lush Wiltshire countryside.
• Family friendly: Perfect for children to roam, play and discover hidden corners of the ruins.
• Fascinating stories: Learn about Lord Thomas Arundell and his wife Blanche through the free audio tour.
• Stunning views: Climb the towers for panoramic vistas across the surrounding landscape.
• Romantic setting: A peaceful and picturesque spot ideal for couples’ picnics and walks.
• Picnic perfect: Relax beneath ancient trees and enjoy the serenity of the castle grounds.
• Photographer’s dream: Capture atmospheric shots of arches, towers and reflections in the lake.
• Educational experience: Great for families keen to mix fun and history.
• Close to Tisbury: Easily combined with a visit to nearby villages or Cranborne Chase attractions.

How to get to Old Wardour Castle

• By car: Located about 2 miles west of Tisbury off the B3089. It’s around 30 minutes from Salisbury and 1 hour from Bath. There’s a small car park on-site for visitors.
• By train: The nearest station is Tisbury, on the Exeter to London Waterloo line. From there, it’s a short taxi or a pleasant 2-mile countryside walk to the castle.
• By bus: Local buses serve nearby villages, but services are infrequent — driving or walking from Tisbury is recommended.
• By bike or on foot: The surrounding countryside offers scenic routes for cyclists and walkers heading to the castle.