Buckham Down

Starting in the hidden car park and picnic area on Buckham Down walk along its ridge with wide open views of patchwork fields to both the north of the county and south to the sea. Cross over the ‘first ever’ road tunnel to the top of Horn Park, neighbouring one of the most unique fossil sites in the whole of the country. Skim Beaminster and through Newtown to reach the ancient Meerhay Manor, surrounded by sunken lanes, fern lined banks and cottages with stained glass windows. Start the climb back up Buckham Down, once home to Martin Clunes’ popular Buckham Country Fair, to reach the ancient site of Beaminster Down.

Distance:  5 miles/8km

Duration: 2-3 hours

Ability: Medium.

Max Height: 790ft.

Min Height: 220ft.

Total climb: 610ft.

Terrain: Path, track, road and field.

Map: OS Explorer 116 Lyme Regis and Bridport

Start Point: Car park on Minterne hill (Postcode: DT8 3SB, Grid Reference: ST484034, What Three Words: compliant.clipboard.stared)

How to Get There: From Beaminster travel north on the A3066. After about a mile take a sharp right to almost come back on yourself.  After a further mile turn right, the car park is at the end of the track (warning – width restriction).

Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.

Refreshments: A number of options are in Beaminster or to the north is the Winyard’s Gap Inn near Chedington, with astonishing views over the countryside.