Circle the mighty hillfort of Ham Hill and climb to the peak of Montacute Castle, through deep holloways and thick woodland. Follow ramparts on the tips of the slopes with views across river valleys and the Somerset Levels. Cross ancient Roman roads and medieval village remains to discover the Roman crossroads haunted by a highwayman. … Continue reading Ham Hill
From the steep slopes and waterways that split Somerset and Wiltshire explore the forests of Stourhead. Find Jack’s Castle, used as a beacon site to call troops, and discover King Alfred’s Tower, its peak visible for miles around. Venture deep into the ancient Selwood Forest, haunted by forces that could steer you off your path. … Continue reading Stourhead
Starting at the blue coastal waters of Swanage Bay, pass colourful beach huts and wooden groynes to climb through the residential estates to Ballard Down. Pass a 17th century farm, built from stone stolen from Corfe Castle, and weave through the trees to the base of the steep slopes. In the company of views over … Continue reading Swanage
Explore the scenic National Nature Reserves of Tadnoll and Winfrith. Climb up a rare, ancient bell barrow, rising high above the heathland, to views across the south of Dorset. Follow the railway to the road to cross bridges built by generous landowners, allowing access between their estates. Use the old carriage rides of Moreton Park … Continue reading Tadnoll
Follow the valley of the River Corfe away from the famous castle ruins onto Corfe Common. Cross the old steam railway to arrive at the Saxon settlement of Woolgarston. Pass the thatched cottages, stone walls and wooden gates to reach the base of Brenscombe Hill. Climb up to the top of the Purbeck ridgeway, with … Continue reading Woolgarston
From the village of Puddletown, named for the river on which it sits, venture out into the storied landscape of Troy Town. Climb the hillside once home to a Miz Maze, a winding turf pattern long believed to have been used for witchcraft and ritual. Follow the old drove roads down to the forgotten Blandford … Continue reading Puddletown
From the high peak of the Iron Age Hillfort of Lambert’s Castle cut down through its ramparts into the Marshwood Vale. With views across the valley to Lewesdon and Pilsdon, join Nash Lane marking the edge of a medieval deer park. Drop down the steep Holloway to Baber’s Farm, bought with the mission to conserve … Continue reading Lambert’s Castle
Explore the tracks and trails deep within the hunting heartland, but marshy waste ground, of what was once Blackmoor Regis. From the hamlet of Hermitage, having grown from an isolated priory, follow the old droveway used by both livestock and lords. Skim the source of the River Cam to Three Gates where an ancient road … Continue reading Hermitage
