Follow the footsteps of ancient kings. Discover the remains of the 12th century castle that dominated the hunting grounds of Cranborne Chase. Explore the village that was once a powerful administrate office, blessed with manors and lodges, that, over time, slowly shrank back into the landscape.
Distance: 3.5 miles/ 5km
Duration: 2 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 265ft
Min Height: 155ft
Total climb: 180ft
Terrain: Path, track, road and field.
Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury & Cranborne Chase and OS Explorer OL22 New Forest
Start Point: Cranborne village centre car park (Postcode: BH21 5QB, Grid reference: SU056133, What Three Words: retire.norms.shipwreck)
How to Get There: From Blandford travel north on the A354 for 9 miles. At the Sixpenny Roundabout turn right and follow the road into Cranborne. Staying on the road, follow it around to the right, signposted for car park.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: The Fleur-de-Lys Inn
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Can’t wait to get round and about a part of Cranborne we’ve not walked before… going this week-end!
Enjoy, it’s quite an adventure. The earthworks are really impressive. And, if you get to Edmondsham house, try viewing it’s western front…completely different house! It’s private so you have to be a little sneaky sneaky! But keeping close to the church and in the trees you can get away with it! A little secret tip for you!
Another one of your brilliant posts that remind me of home… It looks like some of the trees around the castle site may have been thinned out