After visiting the ancient abbey remains and the magical St Augustine’s Well, explore the southern landscape of Cerne Abbas. Pass the 13th century Tithe Barn and clamber the medieval earthworks of the deserted village before exploring the woodland and River Cerne’s valley, the water having supplied breweries for centuries (Cerne Abbas Brewery still going for a possible pit stop!). Circle the prehistoric landscape of Green Hill and climb Bramble Bottom to the lost site of St Catherine’s Chapel. The location today, once so spiritual, just a lonely farm, passed unknowingly by many travelling on the Dorchester to Sherborne road.
Distance: 5 miles/7.5km
Duration: 3 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 770ft.
Min Height: 350ft.
Total climb: 460ft.
Terrain: Track, path field and road.
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis.
Start Point: Long Street, Cerne Abbas. (Postcode: DT2 7JF, Grid Reference: ST665011, What Three Words: adopting.verge.instructs).
How to Get There: From Dorchester, travel north out of the town, turning right at Lidl onto Westleaze. Continue past Charminster and remain on the same road for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Piddle Lane and, at the bottom of the hill, turn left again onto Long Street to then find an appropriate parking spot.
Toilets: Public toilets are opposite the Royal Oak
Refreshments: The New Inn, The Giant Inn and The Royal Oak, all in Cerne Abbas and passed on route.
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Lots of great stile, gate and sneck lifter shots!
A lovely synthesis of the village and timely link to the equinox.
Thank you! Indeed 🌅