Under the shadow of Melbury Beacon, follow the magical, healing springs of the Fontmell Brook. Starting at the waterfalls and lakes of Collyer’s Brook, with towering earthworks on the slopes to the east, enter into a hidden corner of the Blackmore Vale. Passing medieval fishponds and wild nature reserves, with views to Hambledon Hillfort, discover … Continue reading Fontmell Magna
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
Dorset’s rich heritage is illustrated through archaeological discoveries and artefacts from prehistoric to modern times. Significant findings include Neolithic axes, Roman mosaics, and Viking burials. Museums such as the Dorset Museum and the British Museum preserve these treasures, showcasing the region’s diverse historical narratives spanning thousands of years. Below is a growing collection — all … Continue reading Dorset Treasure
Follow the flow of the Frome as it sweeps around the county town of Dorchester. Starting in the village of Fordington, cross over Grey’s Bridge, where Thomas Hardy placed a number of his melancholy characters. Walk along the banks of the water, passing remains of crossings and controls of the meadows. Wander through the hamlet … Continue reading Fordington
Wade along the soggy banks of the River Frome as it skims past the hamlet of Frome St Quintin. Discover the Elizabethan Manor House of Chantmarle, its drive crossing both the railway and river using a stone balustrade bridge. Once on the edge of ruin it became a police academy and is now home to … Continue reading Frome St Quintin
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 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
Circle the crumbling castle of Wardour. Climb up the hill, though the neighbouring woodland, hiding ruins of an 18th century landscape garden. Dive under the haunted tunnel and follow the medieval park pale through the trees, passing a mini Silbury Hill on the way. Drop down to the River Nadder, after crossing the railway, to … Continue reading Wardour Castle
