From a new castle to a ruined one. A hidden village to a demolished church, over a railway and through mysterious woodland, circling the old castles of Sherborne. The landscape was loved by Sir Walter Raleigh, who made himself a stone seat in his castle gardens to sit, smoke, watch the deer run wild and the world go by. Discover the thatched Keepers Cottage surrounded by deer, hidden in woodland like a hobbits home. Cross the medieval road to London, where Sherborne Castle gateposts still stand to welcome the long lost horse drawn traffic; the road stolen from the public, forcing them to use the new turnpikes. Finish by weaving through the trees of Sherborne castle estate before retuning to the little redundant church of Haydon.
Distance: 6 miles/8km
Time: 2-3 hours
Total climb: 520ft
Max height: 475 ft
Min height: 180 ft
Terrain: Track, path, field and road.
Exertion: Easy. Can be muddy and slippy, regardless of the weather.
Start: Haydon, St Catharine Parish church (Grid ref: ST670158, Postcode: DT9 5JB, What Three Words: downfield.master.surpasses)
Map: OS Explorer 129 Yeovil and Sherborne
How to get there: From Sherborne follow the A30 east and take the firts right in Milborne Port to head to Goathill. Stay on the same road for about 1 mile to reach St Catharine Church on your left.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code. There are no stiles on the walk.
Refreshments: None on the direct route but plenty are available in the town of Sherborne.
Neighbouring walks: Sanford Orcas, Purse Caundle, Stourton Caundle, Folke, Longburton, Thornford, Nether Compton and Trent
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