William Barnes

The life of William Barnes in the Dorset landscape (22 February 1801 – 7 October 1886) https://videopress.com/v/Y58zWF4K?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true William Barnes The farmer’s boy, who grew up in the countryside, is undeservedly overshadowed by the more famous Thomas Hardy, but there would be no Hardy without Barnes. The poet, writer, inventor, artist, mathematician and priest was born … Continue reading William Barnes

Roman Dorset

As small tribes farmed the Dorset landscape of the Iron Age, the political environment in the Roman Emipire was changing. Determined to expand they set their sights on Albion, forcing their way through with armed legions on newly developed roads, and renamed the country Britannia. New technologies, building practices, tools, skills, materials and beliefs were … Continue reading Roman Dorset

Stourhead

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

Fontmell Parva

From Manston, deep in the Blackmore Vale, discover its little church and mausoleum, used to house perished loved ones until cremation was made legal. Wander across the floodplains of the River Stour to Fontmell Parva and its large 17th century country house. Climb up Porter's Hill, using the little trackways that connected isolated farms, to … Continue reading Fontmell Parva

Hermitage

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

St Edward’s Way

🌊From Sea to Sky.🌤️ St Edward's Way - A pilgrimage following the footsteps of the elaborate yet mournful ceromony of murdered teenager, King Edward. Travelling from Wareham on the banks of Poole Harbour to his resting place as a Saint in Shaftesbury Abbey. Distance: 33miles/51km Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields and roads. Access: All on a … Continue reading St Edward’s Way

Dorset Peaks

Dorset's highest hills. The best places for sunsets, sunrises, forest walks and wide open views. See their corresponding walks for more details and access. 1. Lewesdon - 279m - Lewesdon 2. Pilsdon Pen - 277m - Pilsdon 3. Bulbarrow - 274m - Bulbarrow 4. Telegraph Hill - 267m - Lyons Gate 6. Melbury Beacon – … Continue reading Dorset Peaks

Thornhill

Circle the grand estate of Thornhill which dates back to the 13th century, was adorned with paintings to match St Paul’s Cathedral and had an obelisk erected in the deer park to celebrate the ascension of King George II. Wander through the valleys of the Caundle Brook and Lydden as they carve their way through … Continue reading Thornhill