From the expanding settlement of Sturminster Marshall, explore its church, timber-framed cottages, pub, and lost village remains, all set along the banks of the River Stour. Follow the route of the medieval road towards Blandford, crossing the old packhorse bridge before joining the route of the former Somerset and Dorset Railway. Cross the old turnpike road (now the A350) and venture up into open countryside, where wide views reveal the surrounding landscape to Badbury Rings. Drop down into the peaceful valley of the little Winterborne and pass through Newton Peveril, a hamlet with a history spanning centuries, from a Neolithic jade axe to a modern airfield. Return along the old railway path, heading back into Sturminster Marshall, where the rails once served the village’s thriving cheese factory.
Distance: 3.5miles/5.5km (optional extension to the church)
Time: 1-2 hours
Ability: Easy.
Max height: 170ft
Min height: 82ft
Total climb: 102ft
Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields, and roads.
Start Point: Sturminster Marshall Village Hall, Churchill Close. (Postcode: BH21 4BH, Grid Reference: SY947996, What Three Words: thrashing.poetic.origins).
Map: OS Explorer 118 Shaftesbury and Cranborne Chase
How to get there: Take the A31 east away from Wimborne and at Roundhouse Roundabout, take the third exit to Sturminster Marshall. Turn right onto Station Road, cross over the roundabout and turn left onto Churchill Close. Turn left at the bend to find the Village Hall carpark with plenty of space.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.
Refreshments: Just off route is The Red Lion in Sturminster Marshall.
Neighbouring Walks: Spetisbury, Shapwick, Kingston Lacy, Charborough, The World’s End, and Anderson.
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