Waggy Walks In Nature with or without a companion dog

Waggy Walks in Nature is back across Weymouth on Monday 30 November, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. It's a weekly walk run by Love Dogs West Dorset and the Environment, led by trained volunteers, and open to anyone — whether you've got a dog to bring along or not. If you've been wanting to get out more but haven't had the company, this is a good way to do it.

The walks move around town, so where you meet depends on the week. On the first Monday of the month, it's the Lodmoor Country Park car park (DT4 7SX); the second Monday is Radipole Park and Gardens car park (DT3 5EZ); and the third Monday is Weymouth Park and Ride by the bus stop. This one falls on the last Monday of November, so it's worth double-checking the rotation if you're planning ahead.

There are a few ground rules to keep things running smoothly: dogs on leads, owners carrying bags and picking up after them, and sticking to public footpaths. The organisers frame the walks as a matter of wellbeing as much as exercise, pointing to World Health Organisation recognition that walking in nature helps reduce isolation and improve physical and mental health. It's as much about the company as the walking.

If you find yourself coming back, there's an informal weekly group called Waggy Walks with Freddie and Friends that regulars are invited to join. You can also follow Love Dogs West Dorset on Facebook, Instagram and Next Door to keep up with what they're doing. The walk is free, and it runs from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.