Cattistock

From the home of the Knob throwing contest, climb the slopes of Cattistock Castle, the earthwork that towers over the village. Discover Chalmington, the country house whose previous owner made some dodgy smuggling deals and is still being chased by the American authorities. Wander through fields and through woodland to find the little River Frome as it travels down the valley to Dorchester. Cross the single track railway to join the old medieval road passing the thatched 17th century mill that survived a fire. Finally, find the sorry tale of Cattistock Lodge, a house with a history full of love – for animals, sport and each other. It was once elegant, with gardens to match, but now is little more than a broken shell of its former self, fading further into the landscape with every blow of wind and lash of rain.

Distance:  4.5 miles/8km

Duration: 2 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 505ft.

Min Height: 350ft.

Total climb: 310ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.

Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis

Start Point: The Square, Cattistock. (Postcode: DT2 0JH, Grid Reference: SY591996, What Three Words: clauses.facelift.dislikes).

How to Get There: From Dorchester, head north on the A37 (Long Ash Lane) for approximately 7 miles. Turn left, signposted for Cattistock, off the ridge and down into the valley. Turn left on the village road to continue straight to the church, sitting just off The Square.

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

Refreshments: The Fox and Hounds in Cattistock.

Neighbouring walks: Evershot, Batcombe, Sidling St Nicholas, Maiden Newton and Toller Porcorum.