During the 19th century the railway flourished throughout the country, arriving in Dorset relatively late. The openings of the lines were celebrated with music, flags and apple cake, the first passengers often lucky school children. However, its life span was short. The terrain proved difficult, the costs unmanageable and the demand fell short in both … Continue reading Dorset Railways
From the unassuming town of Gillingham, where Kings hunted their precious deer and artists painted the countryside, explore the landscape trapped between three rivers. Wander the last few fields before they are encased in development, crossing a brand new road. Skim the edge of the Royal Forest, over medieval trackways, to the hamlet of Madjeston, … Continue reading Madjeston
Wander between the watery paths of the Stour, Slod and Shreen. Skim a spiritual barrow dating back to the Neolithic, later used to bury the dead from battles with Vikings. Explore the village of Milton on Stour with medieval links to King Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon. Climb up the hill … Continue reading Milton on Stour
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
Inspiring the writer Thomas Hardy and the artist John Constable, the small, rural town of Gillingham was hidden deep in ancient forest. Follow the River Lodden through the earthworks of Kings Court, the powerful, medieval hunting lodge, which turned into a castle. Walk on into the new landscape carved out of the old woodland, scattered … Continue reading Gillingham
