Cranborne

Cranborne, a small village, rich in history including naughty monks, revengeful princesses, ruined castles, smugglers and highwaymen.  The landscape is filled with wild wood, spiritual burial mounds, Iron Age settlement, and Neolithic mystery, all of which is the playground for a plethora of wildlife. It has all been preserved thanks to the first conservationist – William the Conqueror, his Chase Law surviving the centuries and protecting the ancient monuments and darting deer we still encounter today. Follow the little chalk stream of the River Crane through old farms and fields, all part of the Cranborne Chase Farm Cluster, dedicated to care and protect the environment. Cross a Romano British Settlement and medieval deer park before entering in to the deep, dark woods of Burwood. Return with views to the old castle back to the village and the little River Crane.

Distance:  4.5 miles/7km

Duration: 2-3 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 350ft.

Min Height: 182ft.

Total climb: 345ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths and roads.

Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase

Start Point: Car Park, Water Street (Postcode: BH21 5QB, Grid Reference: SU056133, What Three Words: fittingly.plugged.holidays).

How to Get There: From Wimborne, travel north on the B3078 for just under 10 miles. On entering the village, ignore the first turning on the right and instead take the second right at the T-junction. When the road bends to the left, continue straight ahead to arrive at the car park.

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

Refreshments: The Fleur de Lys Inn and the Sheaf of Arrows, both in Cranborne.

Neighbouring Walks: Mistleberry, Bokerley Ditch, Cranborne Castle, Edmondsham, Wimborne St Giles, and Gussage Down.