Explore by wheel, hoof or foot the chalk hills and river valleys of central Dorset. Scattered with earthworks and Roman remains, it merges with modern day settlement, woodland and water. Discover the church with an ancient canonical sundial carved into its wall and pass the haunted country house that was inspiration for Thomas Hardy’s ‘Far From The Madding Crowd’.
Distance: 8 miles/12km
Duration: 2 hours (By bike)
Ability: Easy
Max Height: 249ft.
Min Height: 210ft.
Total climb: 279ft.
Terrain: Track, road and field. The area is scattered with bridleways that make it possible to choose you own route or avoid those that may be difficult.
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis
Start Point: Cheselbourne. (Postcode: DT2 7NP, Grid Reference: SY764994, What Three Words: capillary.plums.tadpoles).
How to Get There: From Dorchester follow the A35 east for 4 miles to the Puddletown turning. At the roundabout turn tightly left and then right onto Long Lane. At the next T-junction turn right and remain on the same road to bring you into Cheselbourne. A large layby appears on the left that is best for parking.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: On route is the Rivers Arms and nearby are The Oak at Dewlish and The Fox at Ansty.
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