West Stafford to Winterborne Came

Exploring the landscape and village of West Stafford, in the heart of Hardy country on the River Frome. Pass the pub with origins of a wise man and even a poem written by possibly the man himself. Cross the railway to the ancient, hidden Sandy Barrow and over the hilltop the deserted remains of Whitcombe. Pass the country manor of Came House, almost always run by women – some more aggressive than others, and visit the grave of the Victorian poet, William Barnes. Follow the streams back to West Stafford, skimming the edge of the Stafford House, the home of Julian Fellowes, a man on a mission to preserve the estate – one aspect being brand new green gates met many a time along the walk.

Distance: 5 miles/8km

Duration: 2 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 300ft.

Min Height: 160ft.

Total climb: 165ft.

Terrain: Track, path road and field.

Map: OS Explorer 15 Purbeck and South Dorset

Start Point: Parking just next to the phone box near St Andrew’s Church, West Stafford. (Postcode: DT2 8UB, Grid Reference: SY726895, What Three Words: camper.marketing.landlords).

How to Get There: From Dorchester, travel east from the town on the A352 and at the second roundabout, take the first exit. After just shy of a mile, turn left again towards West Stafford. Follow the road around into the village and parking will be on your right hand side, shortly after the church.

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

Refreshments: On route is Wise Man Inn, West Stafford.

neighbouring Walks: Stinsford, Crossways, Sliverlake, Bincombe, Upwey, Maiden Castle and Poundbury