This Dorset Council visitors centre is adjacent to Thorncombe Wood Local Nature Reserve and Hardy's Cottage (a National Trust property). The cottage is the birthplace of Thomas Hardy the novelist and poet. The reserve has stands of mature trees, a hazel coppice plus a small heathland in restoration which has its own herd of Dartmoor ponies. It is the perfect backdrop to learn about words and nature. Formal Education offer is provided by Dorset Forest School and National Trust but the Dorset Council Rangers are happy to facilitate more informal visits to fit a schools learning topics.