Author: Emma Emma

The Tank Museum (28 miles south west) at Bovington has an impressive collection of tanks and weaponry. Look out for live-action displays and the popular TankFest event. (Assistance dogs only). Find out more about The Tank Museum.

Stonehenge (31 miles north) is the iconic monument dating back 5,000 years. Dogs on leads are allowed outside only. Pre-booking is strongly advised, especially during peak times. English Heritage and National Trust members are free. Find out more about Stonehenge.

Marwell Zoo (32 miles north east) has hundreds of animals in as natural a setting as possible, with an emphasis on conservation work. Find out more about Marwell Zoo.

Stourhead (35 miles north west) is a stately home run by the National Trust with stunning grounds famous for autumn colours. Dogs are welcome on a lead. Find out more about Stourhead.

Longleat (41 miles north west) is a magnificent stately home with famous safari park and other attractions including a maze. Dogs are not allowed in most areas, but there are unsupervised kennels at the Sarari Park entrance. Find out more about Longleat.

Abbotsbury (42 miles south west) historic and picturesque village has Sub-Tropical Gardens (dogs welcome on leads) and the Swannery, (dogs prohibited) the only place where you can walk among nesting mute swans. Chesil Beach is one of several walks near here where dogs are allowed to visit all year round.

Jane Austen’s House (48 miles north east) the writer’s home – a must for Jane Austen fans. Located in the village of Chawton, Hampshire – here you can also find nearby Chawton House. Find out more about Jane Austen’s House.

Knoll Gardens near Ferndown (7 miles) specialise in ornamental grasses under the UK’s leading specialist, Neil Lucas, who sometimes gives tours. (Guide and hearing dogs only.) Find out more about Knoll Gardens.

Compton Acres (16 miles) has 10 acres of formal gardens in different styles with a highly rated cafe, located between Bournemouth and Poole at Canford Cliffs, near Sandbanks. Dogs are allowed in the gardens, cafe and tearooms, but must be kept on a short lead. Find out more about Compton Acres.

Furzey Gardens (17 miles) are informal woodland gardens with a thatched seasonal cafe run by a local charity that supports people with learning disabilities. (Assistance dogs only). Find out more about Furzey Gardens.