Dip and drop through the landscape of the Marshwood Vale. Starting in the hamlet of Allington, now merged into Bridport, climb inland up the valley of the river Simene. Wander past lost farms and crumbling ruins with views to a number of hilltop hillforts. Follow ancient routes to the ridge and descend through deep Holloways, … Continue reading Allington
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
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
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 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
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
Buried in the folds of the fields and slopes is the small hamlet of Rodden, surrounding its old Manor House. Climb up the steep sided valley to the peak of Merry Hill, with views over an old railway line and out to sea. Pass converted barns, which have featured in films, to then join the … Continue reading Rodden
From one of BBC Countryfile’s top five beaches in the country, find the River Char as it manoeuvres its way through the shingle to the sea. Follow it upstream, deeper inland to The Street. With possible Roman origins, the route developed into one of the most important roads from east to west, used by Catherine … Continue reading Charmouth
