Bincombe and Chalbury Hillfort

From the little village of Bincombe, climb high up the hill to appreciate panoramic views of the Jurassic Coastline, stretching from Lyme Regis to St Aldhelm’s Head. Pass a golf course that has carved its own way into history, helping to begin the craze of the Ryder Cup. Explore woodland and ruins along old medieval trackways and thick dark forest to numerous earthworks and barrows, one with associations of fairies and has even been known to sing. Follow the ridge, populated with the army in the late 18th century, run by Prince Frederick the Duke of York and possibly the inspiration behind the famous nursery rhyme, the Grand Duke marching his troops up the hill. Skim the valley to Chalbury Hillfort, topped with more ancient barrows and neighbouring ancient agricultural activity. Return along the slopes, though rich historical landscape that merges with the modern day life of Weymouth, to finish at the church; the graveyard hiding its old tragic tale of love and death, a true one, retold by Thomas Hardy in The Melancholy Hussar of the German Legion.

Distance:  5 miles/8 km

Duration: 2-3 hours

Ability: Medium, with a few big climbs.

Max Height: 470ft.

Min Height: 200ft.

Total climb: 590ft.

Terrain: Track, path road and field.

Map: OL Explorer 15 Purbeck and South Dorset.

Start Point: The Square, Bincombe. (Postcode: DT3 5PX, Grid Reference: SY685844, What Three Words: onto.custodial.itself).

How to Get There: Travel north out of Weymouth via the Weymouth relief road and turn right onto the A353. At the next roundabout, take the first exit, and then right at the next junction onto Icen Lane. Continue along the road and into Bincombe, The Square is on the right hand side, marked by a barn.

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

Refreshments: None on route but nearby are the Old Ship Inn in Upwey and The Springhead in Sutton Poyntz.