Our verdict
Treat this as the quieter end of Holway Woods rather than a separate outing — walk both blocks together if you're making the trip out from Sherborne.
The northern block of the same Holway Woods complex above Sherborne, reached from a slightly different point on the escarpment. Same mix of mature and recently planted woodland, same wide views north over the Somerset border.
Dorset Wildlife Trust reserve — free to explore on foot; some are dog-free or on-lead to protect wildlife.