Rawlsbury

Trek around the top of the world amongst the ramparts of Rawlsbury hillfort. Enjoy wide open views over the patchwork fields of the Blackmore Vale to the peaks of the hills in Somerset. Delve down into the valley passing the lakes at the source of the River Lydden. Climb back up to Bulbarrow via a ridge that splits the waters of the River Stour and the River Frome and skim the communication towers that define the highest point for miles around. Return along the country lanes past the Bronze Age barrow that gave the hill its name and further views to Hambledon, Duncliffe and Shaftesbury beyond.

Distance:  3 miles/5km  

Duration: 1-2 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 880ft.

Min Height: 420ft.

Total climb: 470ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths and roads.

Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis

Start Point: Rawlsbury Camp, Woolland. (Postcode: DT11 0HE, Grid Reference: ST770058, What Three Words: croutons.watching.lion). There is only space for 2 cars at most; further parking is available at the top of Bulbarrow Hill, with a short walk back to Rawlsbury along the road.

How to Get There: From Blandford travel west on Fair Mile Road and down into Winterborne Stickland. Turn right onto the valley road and take the next left staying on the same road for about 3 miles. On meeting the junction on Bulbarrow Hill, continue straight ahead to then veer off to the right. Pass a road coming from each side to then find the layby at Rawlsbury on the left.

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

Refreshments: None on route but nearby are The Antelope Inn in Hazelbury Bryan, The Ibberton in Ibberton and The Fox Inn in Ansty.

Neighbouring Walks: Hazelbury Bryan, Bulbarrow, Ibberton Hill, Ansty, The Wessex Ridgeway and Mapowder.