Explore the wide open landscape that covers a chalk ridgeway north of Dorchester, passing small settlements and climbing ancient earthworks. Discover an isolated tower standing in its own dry valley and fitted with a single bell, the sound of the ring echoing around the surrounding empty slopes. Climb back up the hill to an ancient junction marked with a stone cross and with old tales of hangings. Clamber through the earthworks of Grimstone Down before descending back into the valley, following a Roman road and crossing the train tracks to return to Stratton.
Distance: 7miles/11.5km (with Forcey’s Tower), 4.5miles/7km (just Grimstone Down)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Ability: Medium
Terrain: Path, track and field.
Total Climb: 439ft
Max Height: 640ft
Min Height: 246ft
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis
Start Point: The Square, Stratton (Postcode: DT2 9WG, Grid reference: SY650937, What Three Words: spearhead.indoor.unlucky.)
How to Get There: From Dorchester, take the B3147 north, leading to the A37, out of town. After about 2 miles, turn left onto Dorchester Road and into Stratton. After the church, take the next left, leading to parking at The Square and the Saxon Arms.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: The Saxon Arms in Stratton
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