East Holme

A mini adventure into a secret spot on the banks of the River Frome. The long gone Priory of Holme has disappeared, its site faded into history. The Priory church, which sat on the site of a Roman church, the land dedicated over 2000 years ago, has also gone. Instead the Victorian Architect John Hicks was commissioned by the Bond family to build a new one, claimed to be one of his best and decorated by the lady of the manor. The Bonds are believed to be the inspiration behind James Bond, their family motto translating to ‘The World is not Enough’. The Priory manor, which dates back to the 16th century, still stands, looking over parkland towards the Purbeck hills.

Distance:  3/4 miles/1.2km

Duration: 1 hour

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 175ft.

Min Height: 75ft.

Total climb: 100ft.

Terrain: Field, track and roads.

Map: OS Explorer OL15 Purbeck and South Dorset

Start Point: East Home. (Postcode: BH20 6AG, Grid Reference: SY895859, What Three Words: quiz.loopholes.nicer).

How to Get There: Head south from Wareham on the B3075 straight through Stoborough. Turn left onto the main road and then right onto West Lane. Turn right again onto Holme Lane and continue for about a mile. Turn left onto a narrow country land to East Hole. Drive through the ford to find space for parking on the eft hand side.

Refreshments: None on route but nearby is The Halfway Inn and a number of options in both Corfe Castle and Wareham.

Neighbouring walks:  Stoborough, The Blue Pool, Stepple?!, Tyneham, Lulworth Estate and Wool