Milton on Stour

Wander between the watery paths of the Stour, Slod and Shreen. Skim a spiritual barrow dating back to the Neolithic, later used to bury the dead from battles with Vikings. Explore the village of Milton on Stour with medieval links to King Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon. Climb up the hill to Pierston Farm, originally its own hamlet, but its chapel has been lost in the landscape. Venture down the hidden back lanes of the village, past old manors and new ones to replace them, to the fields and farms of the Upper Stour Valley, all with views into Wiltshire. Return via a colourful church and an old mill, once painted by John Constable, to pass the eco-friendly Neal’s Yard and its garden full of natural ingredients.

Distance: 4miles/6.5km  

Duration: 2 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 300ft.

Min Height: 250ft.

Total climb: 70ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths and roads.

Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase

Start Point: Marlott Road Playground. (Postcode: SP8 4FA, Grid Reference: ST802276, What Three Words: clattered.salmon.bends).

How to Get There: From Gillingham town centre, travel north on the B3092. At the first roundabout continue straight ahead and at the second take the first exit onto Marlott Road. Turn left then bend to the right to curve around to the parking at Marlott Park.

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

Refreshments: Just off route is the Dolphin Inn and a number of other options in Gillingham

Neighbouring walks: Wyndham’s Oak, Gillingham, Wyke, Kington Magna and Buckhorn Weston.