Our verdict
A genuinely good spring and summer wildlife spot if you time it right for the bluebells or the fritillaries — quiet, out-of-the-way, and unlikely to be crowded even in season.
Two patches of ancient woodland either side of a lane near Halstock, close to the Somerset border, with a small flower-rich meadow between them. Silver-washed fritillary butterflies appear from July, and the woodland floor carpets with bluebells, early purple, common spotted and bird's-nest orchids from mid April.
Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve — free to explore on foot; some are dog-free or on-lead to protect wildlife.