Buried in the folds of the fields and slopes is the small hamlet of Rodden, surrounding its old Manor House. Climb up the steep sided valley to the peak of Merry Hill, with views over an old railway line and out to sea. Pass converted barns, which have featured in films, to then join the Coastal Path to the Fleet Lagoon. Follow the water’s edge through the nature reserve, bordered by the ancient barrier of Chesil Beach protecting it from the wild winds sent from South America. Return via the Doubly Thankful village of Langton Herring and over Rodden Ridge, passing a ruined lime kiln and tracing a little river upstream.
Distance: 5miles/8km
Time: 2-3 hours
Ability: Medium, some steep climbs.
Max height: 198ft
Min height: 0ft
Total climb: 460ft
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.
Start Point: Rodden. (Postcode: DT3 4JE, Grid Reference: SY609841, What Three Words: unsightly.swordfish.retailing).
Map: OS Explorer OL15 Purbeck and South Dorset
How to get there: From Weymouth head west on the B3157. Stay on the same road for just under 2 miles to take the left hand turning to Langton Herring. Drive straight through the village and out the other side to Rodden. Turn left at the manor house to find Parking just up the hill on the right. in the village take the first left hand turn to find the pub and car park on the right.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.
Refreshments: The Elm Tree Inn in Langton Herring and The Kings Arms in Portesham.
Neighbouring Walks: Portesham, Friar Waddon, Higher Moor, Langton Herring.and Abbotsbury Railway,
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