Starting in one of the longest villages of the county, explore the landscape of the medieval royal hunting ground of Gillingham Forest. Pass through the avenue of trees on Frog Lane to climb up to the ancient Kingsettle Wood, providing views over the Blackmore Vale. Follow the railway back towards the village, past a lost underground train carriage and into Coppleridge. Join the old Drove road to Motcombe Park, home of the Grosvenors, now the prep school Port Regis. Return following the little stream past the church and school to Church Lane, lined with a range of thatched and stone cottages.
Distance: 4.5 miles/7km
Time: 2-3 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max height: 510ft
Min height: 280ft
Total climb: 235ft
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.
Start Point: Motcombe Village Hall. (Postcode: SP7 9PE, Grid Reference: ST850253, What Three Words: goat.envisage.wizard).
Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase
How to get there: Leave Shaftesbury northwards using the B3081. On the hair pin bend, just as you leave the town, turn right onto Motcombe Road. Stay on the same lane for just under 2 miles to enter the village of Motcombe. When the road splits take the right hand fork to fine the village hall on the right.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.
Refreshments: Just off the route is The Coppleridge Inn and nearby are The Kings Arms and The Crown Inn in East Stour and a number of other options in Shaftesbury.
Neighbouring Walks: Gillingham, Duncliffe and Madjeston.
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