Discover the vast, ancient royal hunting grounds of Cranborne Chase. Climb up the chalk hills to views across a landscape once loved and worshipped by our ancestors. Follow the footsteps of the Neolithic, over their earthworks and into the Iron Age. Cross the mysterious Dorset Cursus and follow the line of the mighty Roman road of Ackling Dyke. Trace the soldiers’ path to Bottlebush Down—said to be haunted by a mad horseman brandishing a weapon. Return along the chalk ridge, passing barrows where headless skeletons were unearthed, and descend to Sixpenny Handley, where the infamous smuggler Isaac Gulliver once took his wedding vows.
Distance: 7 miles/11km (see full route at bottom of page)
Duration: 2-4 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 375ft.
Min Height: 200ft.
Total climb: 400ft.
Terrain: Tracks, bridleways and roads. Suitable for bikes.
Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase
Start Point: Deans Lane, Sixpenny Handley. (Postcode: SP5 5QJ, Grid Reference: SU000172, What Three Words: bleaching.carrots.chipper).
How to Get There: From Blandford, travel north east on the A354, passing through Pimperne, Tarrant Hinton and Chettle. At Handley Cross roundabout, take the first exit signposted for Sixpenny Handley. Take the first right in the village onto Deans Lane to find parking along the side of the road.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: On route is The Penny Tap in Sixpenny Handley and nearby is The Museum Inn in Farnham.
Neighbouring Walks: Win Green, Mistleberry, Bokerley Ditch, Pentridge, Cranborne, Wimborne St Giles, Gussage Down and Farnham.
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