Bells in the Woods at Studland

If you’re in the market for some active outdoorsy time, the Isle of Purbeck is a top choice. Around here are all sorts of options for walks (gentle strolls or uphill hikes as you wish), bike rides on cycle paths or quiet lanes, horse riding and watery pursuits like sea kayaking, snorkelling and paddleboarding (all of which can be sorted 10 minutes’ drive away). All sound a bit too much? Perhaps just pick one of the top sights along the Jurassic Coast for a wander/picnic/lazy day: Shell Bay and Studland beach are both a couple of miles away, or you might like to check out the views at Old Harry Rocks (10 minutes’ drive), Dancing Ledge (25 minutes) or Chapmans Pool (half an hour). Taking it even easier is an option too – simply head to Swanage (20 minutes) and take your seat on the Swanage Railway for a steam-powered trip to Corfe Castle (although you’ll most likely want to get out for a wander around the ruins of the castle itself once you get there…)