From the source of the River Frome, climb up to the peak of the ridge that splits it from the River Yeo. Cross the Roman Road of Long Ash Lane, once described by Thomas Hardy as a deserted highway. Skim the railway tunnel of Holywell to drop down into the village of Melbury Bubb. Pass the mystical church and Jacobean manor to climb up Bubb Hill with wide open views across Dorset into Somerset and beyond. Follow the track of Murderers’ Lane into the woods, named after an event involving robbery, death, and escape. Curve around the edge of the steep slopes of Gibberts Pit where the guilty were hung from the branches above, their cries still whispering through the trees. Return to the village of Evershot, though the ancient deer park of Melbury, its grand house towering above the trees.
Distance: 5miles/8km
Time: 2-3 hours
Ability: Medium.
Max height: 690ft
Min height: 385ft
Total climb: 555ft
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads.
Start Point: The Three Dumb Sisters, Park Lane. (Postcode: DT2 0JY, Grid Reference: ST575046, What Three Words: glows.handbag.bonkers).
Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis
How to Get There: From Dorchester travel north west on the A37 for approximately 10 miles. Turn off at Holywell and follow the road over the brow of the hill to arrive at Evershot. Turn right as soon as you enter the village to find the Dumb Sisters turned into stone on the right hand side.
Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route.
Refreshments: In Evershot is The Acorn Inn, a favourite of Thomas Hardy or the 5 star Summer Lodge.
Neighbouring Walks: Sutton Bingham Reservoir, Chetnole, Batcombe, Redford, Up Sydling, Rampisham and Chelborough.
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