Skim the southern corner of the Kingston Lacy estate, walking between the historically feuding neighbours of the Bankes and the Erles. Explore the medieval routes that once connected the estates to the surrounding countryside. Walk through the beech tree avenue, one of the most iconic scenes of the county, to reach Badbury Rings. Follow the footsteps of Celtic tribes, on the hillfort’s ramparts, Roman soldiers, along their numerous ancient roads, and the Britons, who fought with King Arthur against the invading Saxons – all under the watchful eye of a goddess in the form of a raven. Return to the estate passing the medieval hunting lodge, sitting on the old deer park boundary, and the new lodge, which guards the western edge of the estate.
Distance: 6 miles/9.5km
Duration: 3 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 280ft.
Min Height: 75ft.
Total climb: 300ft.
Terrain: Track, path, road and field.
Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase
Start Point: Kingston Lacy Garden Car Park. (Postcode: BH21 4EQ, Grid Reference: ST978007, What Three Words: coconuts.regretted.denote).
How to Get There: From Wimborne head west on B3082. Turn left onto Abbott Street, in the direction of Pamphill. Continue for about a mile, passing Kingston Lacy’s Kitchen gardens on the left. When the road turns sharply, continue straight ahead onto a track to arrive at the car park.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: None on route, but there are a number of options in nearby Wimborne including The Kings Head and The Olive Branch.
Neighbouring Walks: Badbury Rings Bike Ride, Wimborne, Lady Wimborne Bridge, Pamphill, Spetisbury Rings and Buzbury Rings.
Subscribe to get access
Read more of this content when you subscribe today.
Subscribe to get access
Read more of this content when you subscribe today.
5 thoughts on “Kingston Lacy to Badbury Rings”