Dorset Adventures

Explore the deepest, darkest corners of Dorset by foot, wheel or hoof. Discover hidden ruins, beautiful views and ancient monuments. Visit places where mystery exists but only traces remain. Follow the footsteps of our ancestors and escape into this wonderful landscape.

Search for a place, theme, activity or era to find a self-guided adventure for you.

For a quick guide see Dorset Inspiration

Check out the Ultimate Jurassic Coast Drive

Or discover The Stourton Caundle Stile Trail

💦☀️Tis the season for Bluebells! ☀️💦

April’s Walk of the Month

🌤️🌱Bubb Hill – Where Murder Meets Mystery🌱🌤️

‘The most comprehensive site on walking in Dorset’ – Folde Bookshop

Hand drawn maps are provided for every area mentioned. Prints are also available. See Map page for the full selection.

Articles by Tess of the Vale also feature in Dorset Magazine

For any queries please feel free to contact me.

Top 5 most popular walks of March

See Top 5 walks for more!

Recent Posts

Sturminster Marshall

From the expanding settlement of Sturminster Marshall, explore its church, timber-framed cottages, pub, and lost village remains, all set along the banks of the River Stour. Follow the route of the medieval road towards Blandford, crossing the old packhorse bridge before joining the route of the former Somerset and Dorset Railway. Cross the old turnpike … Continue reading Sturminster Marshall

Monkton Combe

Venture through the historic village of Monkton Combe, uncovering layers of its industrial past. From the school, mill, lock-up and church, follow the route of the lost canal towards Tucking Mill. Climb up to the top of the viaduct, once part of the Somerset and Dorset railway, and step into one of the longest tunnelled … Continue reading Monkton Combe

Nether Cerne

Admire the quiet valley of the little River Cerne as it deeply carves its way through the chalk hills. Beginning at the farmstead of Nether Cerne, discover its hidden church and manor house, once under the influence of the mighty Cerne Abbey. Follow the river downstream before climbing to the ridge that divides the Cerne … Continue reading Nether Cerne

Dorset Highwaymen

Dorset’s roads, from medieval trackways to 18th-century turnpikes, stretched across open heaths, chalk downs, and hidden valleys. Travellers moving between London, Dorchester, and the West Country risked robbery, carrying cash, jewels, or goods. Highwaymen, alone or in gangs, exploited the land, using fast horses, pistols, and hidden refuges, while sparse policing left victims vulnerable. Some … Continue reading Dorset Highwaymen

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