Explore the forgotten lands of the Blackmore Vale. Begin high in the valley of the River Lydden, in the small hamlet of Duntish, and follow its winding streams through fields, farms, and pockets of ancient woodland. Pass through the little village of Buckland Newton, crossing its old ford, before climbing towards the edge of a … Continue reading Duntish
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
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
Under the shadow of Dungeon and Dogbury hillforts, discover the medieval, forested village of Glanvilles Wootton. Pass the healing waters of Chalybeate Spring and the manor that has grown through time. Explore the land owned by a famous highwayman and the ancient family of the UK Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill. Follow the footsteps of … Continue reading Glanvilles Wootton
Set in the ancient forest of Blackmore, or historically known as Blackmore Regis, was the Friary of hermits whose traces of life still exist today. Discover their well, hidden in the high valley of The Caundle Brook and the old lime kiln of industry gone by. Pass through the village of Lyon’s Gate, under the … Continue reading Lyon’s Gate
Explore the landscape of Nether Compton, a hidden corner of North Dorset. From the golden village, that rose from the ashes, head up to the hills for views over the counties of both Somerset and Dorset. Return to the valley to discover the ancient Holloways carved deep into the sandy stone by centuries of footsteps, … Continue reading Nether Compton
Discover an ancient stone that marks a spot of magic. Join the Wessex ridgeway along the hilltops to descend to Up Cerne and its avenue of trees. Climb back through ancient woodland with views down to the impressive Minterne House. Distance: 5 miles/8 kmTime: 2 hoursTotal climb: 420ft.Max height: 870ft.Min height: 460ft.Terrain: Track, path, road … Continue reading Up Cerne
The small, quiet village of Leigh has a suspicious and mysterious past. Today it is home to a modern village Hall hosting popular events. A few hundred years ago, the village used to be host to witches. The Miz Maze, now nothing but lumps and bumps in the landscape, was where the last witch to … Continue reading Leigh, The Castle and The Miz Maze.
