Delve deep into the mystical woodland of Hooke Park. Weave between the gnarly oaks, towering beech and lines of red cedar, the floor under the dark canopy broken by shards of sunshine and architectural creations by the hidden school. Follow the footsteps of Iron Age tribes and medieval hunters through a landscape of deep ravines and Holloways. Climb back up the hill to Drakenorth, named after a dragon that protected treasure, possibly looted from the nearby Powerstock Castle. Return along the country lane as the slopes dip down to the manor of Hooke, once excavated by the Time Team.
Distance: 3miles/5km
Time: 1-2 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max height: 675ft
Min height: 375ft
Total climb: 575ft
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.
Start Point: Hooke Park. (Postcode: DT8 3PH, Grid Reference: SY525997, What Three Words: bins.mingles.diplomat).
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas to Bere Regis
How to get there: From Beaminster, travel west on the B3163 Dorchester Road. After just under two miles turn right onto a small county lane, signposted for Hooke. Climb up the hill into the woodland of Hooke Forest and take the right hand turning towards the Architectural School. Once off the road find a pull in off the drive to avoid causing an obstruction.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.
Refreshments: None on route but nearby are The Kitchen at the Kingcombe Centre, The Marquis of Lorne in Nettlecombe and The Three Horseshoes in Powerstock
Neighbouring Walks: Hooke, Kingcombe, Powerstock Forest, North Poorton, Parnham and Beaminster Down.
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There is a public parking place for a few cars on the right after you turn in to Hooke Park. It is just about opposite where the footpath returns at the end of the walk.
A very interesting walk.