This second part of the Wessex Ridgeway bike ride begins high on Okeford Hill with views stretching across both south and north Dorset. Travel along the ridge of Ibberton and Bulbarrow to reach the Iron Age Hillfort of Rawlsbury Camp. Cycle downhill into the first valley to rise again at the ancient junction of Dorsetshire Gap, passing a second Hillfort. The last climb up Ball Hill is short and sweet, leading to another ancient settlement and a speedy descend along the chalk tracks to Alton Pancreas.
Distance – 10 Miles/16km
Duration – 2.5/3 hours
Exertion – Completely dependent on fitness. Two hard climbs up to the Dorsetshire Gap and Ball Hill. The terrain can get rough and may require dismounting and pushing.
Terrain – Track and road, a few narrow paths. Can get muddy after rain. Can also become hard and rutted with horse and tyre tracks during the summer.
Maps – Os Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis.
Start – At the parking area at the top of Okeford Hill. (Postcode: DT11 0RD, Grid Reference: ST812093, What Three Words: district.political.tasks).
Finish – Lay-by to the North of Alton Pancreas. (Postcode: DT2 7QX, Grid Reference: ST699031, What Three Words: farms.excusing.steer) .
Refreshments – None on route, but just off the route are The Ibberton in Ibberton, The Fox Inn at Ansty and The Brace of Pheasants in Plush.
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