From the big village of Broadwindsor, where King Charles II once dressed as a lady and ran for his life, head up the slopes of Lewesdon Hill. Cross the small brooks that feed the River Axe to join the ancient routes which merge with medieval trackways, leading to the highest point in Dorset. Clamber the earthworks and peer through the trees to admire views across the Marshwood Vale to the sea. Follow the Holloways down the hill to pass the Roman Fort of Waddon Hill. Return to Broadwindsor via the small little lanes that once led the way in engineering developments for the whole country.
Distance: 4 miles/6.5km
Duration: 2 hours
Ability: Medium – Climbing to Dorset’s highest peak!
Max Height: 915ft.
Min Height: 430ft.
Total climb: 650ft.
Terrain: Track, path road and field.
Map: OS Explorer 116 Lyme Regis and Bridport.
Start Point: Broadwindsor Village Hall Car park. (Postcode: DT8 3QD, Grid Reference: ST438025, What Three Words: eggplants.wedding.flanked).
How to Get There: From Bridport, take the B3162 north out of the town, heading straight to Broadwindsor. On entering the large village, turn left onto Back Lane, travelling through the narrow streets. At the T-junction turn right and the Village Hall car park will shortly appear on your left.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: In Beaminster is The White Lion while nearby is The Royal Oak at Drimpton or The Admiral Hood in Mosterton
Neighbouring Walks: Drimpton, South Perrott, Buckham Down, Netherbury, Salwayash, Shave Cross, Bettiscombe and Pilsdon Pen.
Waddon Fort Exhibition coming to Beaminster Museum in April 2025
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