Follow the flow of the River Stour across Thomas Hardy’s valley of the little dairies. Explore the remains of an ancient country house and the scattered ruins of mills that traced the rivers path. Wander across the flood plains through the woodland and over the little bridges linking the villages and hamlets.
Distance: 5 miles/8km
Duration: 2.5 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 295ft.
Min Height: 190t.
Total climb: 125ft.
Terrain: Path, track, road and field.
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis
Start Point: The Ship Inn. (Postcode: SP8 5RP, Grid Reference: ST785225, What Three Words: lions.common.entrusted).
How to Get There: From Shaftesbury follow the A30 east of the town. After about 6 miles the pub appears on your right, the car park is on your left.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: The Ship Inn in West Stour and nearby are The Blackmore Vale Inn or The Crown in Marnhull.
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