Native British Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) can carpet a woodland. Their delicate appearance and vivid colour are unmistakeable, however must not be confused with Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica). The dainty flowers are native to western Europe and the UK is a species stronghold. They're associated with ancient woodland and are often used, in combination with other species, … Continue reading Bluebells in Dorset
Times are tough and purse strings are tied tight so what better way to still enjoy the holidays than embark on an adventure into Dorset’s countryside. The cost of an adventure park for a family is often way out of limits, but may be completely unnecessary! Dorset is rich with treasure, surprises, secrets, mystery and … Continue reading Dorset Inspiration
Wander through the valley of the Stirchell Brook, its name reflecting a small stream that can turn into a torrent. From an old US military hospital, which was innovative in its methods to motivate and rehabilitate, escape into the surrounding landscape. Discover the old village pub, Blacksmith's cottage and mill, all of which have managed … Continue reading Guy’s Marsh
Starting in the Valley of the Winterborne at Winterborne Stickland discover the ancient cross, associated tree, church, pub and war memorial before climbing up the hill to woodland. Explore the tracks and trails through Charity Wood and on to Milton Wood, divided by a park pale that are the remains of an ancient deer park. … Continue reading Winterborne Stickland
From the little village of Symondsbury, walk along the permissive paths of the estate to Dorset’s most impressive Holloways. Hidden deep within the sandstone and amongst the roots of trees, it creates a secret and mystical atmosphere. Climb to the top of Colmer’s Hill, to stand at the peak, in the centre of the pine … Continue reading Colmers Hill
Starting at Wyke's old brewery, its coach house, pound and pub cut across the landscape, over the railway to reach the River Stour. Find the heart, etched into the stone on Eccliffe Bridge, the mill and river once inspiring John Constable. Discover impressive manors, medieval halls and houses fit for a Queen, with tales of … Continue reading Wyke and Eccliffe
Starting at the peak of Wootton Hill, under the canopy of Charmouth Forest, explore the medieval landscape of Wootton Fitzpaine and Champernhayes. Discover farmhouses, built from monastery remains, and ruins of their intensive activity. Follow the Monkton Wyld River upstream returning to woodland scattered with bluebells, beech, oak and art. Distance: 5 miles/7km Duration: 2-3 … Continue reading Charmouth Forest
Start at the little hamlet of Stour Row, deep in the valley of the meandering River Stour and the landscape of Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the D’Urbervilles'. Discover earthworks of a Romano-British settlement that grew in the medieval period but then faded back into the ground to become nothing but a scattering of barns and … Continue reading Stour Row
