St Luke’s Chapel, Abbotsbury

Follow the hidden path, off the beaten track, into a hidden valley and woodland. Set behind the popular village of Abbotsbury discover a secret, crumbling chapel, forgotten by generations and overtaken by nature. The ruins, now covered by trees, served a village that has shrunk into mystical lumps and bumps in the undergrowth. Skim Ashley Chase House, the owners of which preserved the church and are buried amongst the remains but also played a heroic part in the Second World War saving lives. Return over the fields and out the valley with views towards to sea.

Distance: 2 to 3.5 miles/3 to 5.5km

Time: 1.5 hours

Total climb: 482ft.

Max height: 620ft.

Min height: 300ft.

Terrain: Track, path, road and field.

Exertion: Easy.

Start: Ashley Chase Road (Postcode: DT3 4JZ, Grid reference: SY557871, What Three Words: apprehend.securing.prone)

Map: OS Explorer OL15 Purbeck & South Dorset

How to get there: From Abbotsbury, follow the B3157 westward for about 1½ miles. After passing the view point on your left, take the narrow road on your right, signposted to Ashley Chase. Pass Abbotsbury Castle on your left and follow the road until you reach a fork. Park off the road, allowing any vehicles to pass.

Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.

Refreshments: None on route but a number of options are in the village of Abbotsbury.

Neighbouring Walks: Little Bredy, Abbotsbury Railway, Abbotsbury, St Catherine’s Chapel, West Bexington and Chilcombe