Once greeted by elegant herons, escape into the landscape of the little dairies. Cross patchwork fields, with views to hill forts and hunting grounds, following the footsteps of Tess of the D’Urbervilles. Pass an elegant Elizabethan Manor House that neighbours agricultural barns, cross a little stream on its way to the mighty River Stour and discover a moat with its possible castle, now disappeared. Wander through tunnels of trees, across precious fossilised stone and find your way out of a labyrinth as you arrive back to the village of Hinton St Mary; a village that was home to one of the most impressive finds of the Roman Empire. Return to the herons, via the place of rest for Tess’ baby Sorrow, and an elegant doorway, for the use of the Lord of the Manor.
Distance: 5.5 miles/9km
Duration: 3 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 300ft.
Min Height: 160ft.
Total climb: 290ft.
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.
Map: OS Explorer 129 Yeovil to Sherborne
Start Point: Ridgeway Lane. (Postcode: DT10 1NA, Grid Reference: ST787159, What Three Words: personal.waged.heaven).
How to Get There: From Sturminster Newton, head north on the B3092. After entering the village take the first right onto Stearts Lane Take the next right hand turn onto Ridgway Lane to find parking on the right under the trees.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: On route is The White Horse Inn in Hinton St Mary or nearby is The Plough Inn in Manston.
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