From Thomas Hardy’s typical Dorset village of Evershot, discover the source of the River Frome. Pass the parish church whose tower was designed by the same man who designed the Elizabeth Tower – home to Big Ben. Travel over the hills to the hidden hamlet of Rampisham and its secret packhorse bridge. Walk on to Chantmarle, a stunning Elizabethan manor house with its own canal acting like a moat. Left to ruin it was rebuilt and turned into a police academy until it was renovated back into a private home. Return back to Evershot, through farms, fields, and deep tree routes to the ancient stone three sisters, punished for dancing on the Sabbath.
Distance: 8 miles /13km
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.
Ability: Easy.
Terrain: Path, track and road.
Max Height: 220ft.
Min Height: 125ft.
Total climb: 830ft.
Map: OL Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis
Start Point: The Acorn Inn (Postcode: DT2 0JW, Grid Reference: ST573044, What Three Words: assure.archduke.mostly).
How to get there. From Dorchester travel north on the A37 towards Yeovil. After approximately 10 miles, turn left to Holywell, crossing over the railway. Continue on the same road for a further mile or so enter Evershot. Park sensibly along the side of the road or, if visiting in the pub, the car park is on the right hand side.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: On route is the The Acorn Inn and The Summer Lodge while nearby is The Chetnole Inn in Chetnole.
Neighbouring Walks: Melbury Sampford, Chetnole, Batcombe, Up Sydling, Cattistock, Kingcombe, Hooke, Corscombe and East and West Chelborough.
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