Buried in the folds of the deep, dry chalk valleys, used by the Romans to source water for their fountain filled town of Durnovaria, sits Wynford Eagle. The manor house dominates the scene, topped with a stone eagle to honour the medieval family that gave the hamlet its name. The following family experienced tragedy with the matriarch murdered on the doorstep. From the remains of its neighbouring Roman villa, pass a magic healing well up to the peaks scattered with ancient and spiritual earthworks. Skim the path of a Roman road to discover the little village of Compton Valence, annually bathed in a carpet of snowdrops. Return over the soft, interlocking spurs providing wide open views across Dorset with the fields often filled with deer.
Distance: 5 miles/ 8km
Duration: 2-3 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max Height: 720ft.
Min Height: 375ft.
Total climb: 575ft.
Terrain: Tracks, paths and roads.
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas to Bere Regis and OS Explorer OL15 Purbeck and South Dorset.
Start Point: St Laurence Church. (Postcode: DT2 0ES, Grid Reference: SY581959, What Three Words: scope.sticking.poetry).
How to Get There: From Dorchester travel north west on the A37. Turn left towards Frampton onto theA356 and follow it into Maiden Newton. Travel through the village to then turn left, cross over a small bridge and turn right, signposted for Wynford Eagle. Follow the road all the way into the village and turn right to head up the hill. Park carefully up by the houses, without blocking any access. Parking at the church is off limits due to the presence of snowdrops!
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: None on route but nearby are The Chalk and Cheese in Maiden Newton and The Spyway Inn in Askerswell.
Neighbouring Walks: Toller Porcorum, Maiden Newton, Compton Valence and West Compton.
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