Piddletrenthide

From the little valley of the River Piddle, escape into a landscape once ruled by Iron Age tribes. Climb up between the folds of the hills to Incombe Wood, the trees hiding earthworks of the long-gone farmers. Wander through the wide-open fields, where the ploughed soils or growing crops can silently reveal traces of their lost settlement. Drop down into West Hill Bottom, where Roman remains have been unearthed to then climb up to the old drove road, now home of some rare breeds. Return to the valley to follow the meandering river upstream through the village of Piddletrenthide.

Distance: 5miles/8km

Time: 2 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max height: 663ft.

Min height: 315ft.

Total climb: 554ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads. All on bridleways so suitable for bikes and horses.

Start Point: Wightmans Orchard. (Postcode: DT2 7QQ, Grid Reference: SY705996, What Three Words: flame.uncle.conga).

Map: OS Explorer 117 Cerne Abbas and Bere Regis

How to get there: From Dorchester, turn right at the Lidl junction and head past the Sun Inn on the edge of Charminster. Stay on the main causeway for just over 7 miles and, at the top of St Catherine’s Hill, turn right. Head down into the Piddle Valley and turn right in Piddletrenthide. Pass the village shop and take the next right to find sensible parking along Wightmans Orchard.

Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.

Refreshments: On the route is The Piddle Inn Not the Ordinary and nearby is The Poachers Inn.

Neighbouring Walks:  Alton Pancras, Plush, Cheselbourne, Piddlehinton, Stratton and Cerne Abbas.