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
As the wide and fast flowing River Stour enters the conurbation of Bournemouth it winds its way through Throop. Pass the village’s ruined mill, still standing on the river banks, apparently haunted by children lost to the water. Cross the mill stream using its iron sluice gates, holding back the flow from the giant mill … Continue reading Throop
Without bridges, the landscape can become a puzzle of islands, sewn together by deep channels of water, only accessible by getting wet or by boat. Today they are crossed without notice, their relevance heightened on the rare occasions they are closed for repairs, requiring substantial diversions. Beginning as fords, raised river beds that required constant … Continue reading Dorset Bridges, Viaducts and Tunnels
Starting in one of the longest villages of the county, explore the landscape of the medieval royal hunting ground of Gillingham Forest. Pass through the avenue of trees on Frog Lane to climb up to the ancient Kingsettle Wood, providing views over the Blackmore Vale. Follow the railway back towards the village, past a lost … Continue reading Motcombe
Dorset's Role in the Normandy Landings on 6th June 1944 - 82nd Year Anniversary in 2026 Dorset played a crucial role in the D-Day landings with many soldiers from all over the world coming together to train in preparation. Below is a small selection of walks travelling through the landscape, littered with remains, all of … Continue reading Dorset’s Role in D Day
Explore Christchurch with a history much deeper than its surrounding harbour waters. Find the Priory, its location selected by a divine being and the wood carved by Jesus himself. Wander the ruins of the castle and the Norman Hall, the medieval hotel for royalty, with its toilet hanging over the little mill stream. Discover secret … Continue reading Christchurch
Discover a landscape lost in history, a small village once home to castle which witnessed both success and tragedy. The village was the marital home of Dick Whittington, the inspiration of the fairy-tale, before the family experienced sadness through both plague and murder. However, the village was possibly saved by the controversial presence of cats, … Continue reading Stourton Caundle
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
