From deep within the roots of the ancient Selwood Forest, wander a landscape that shaped Iron Age tribes, settling Saxons, and the counties of Wessex. Drop down into the valley of the River Stour, joining its short course through Wiltshire to the possible site of Egbert’s Stone, marking the point where three counties meet. Follow … Continue reading Bourton
Climb to the summit of what many believe to be King Arthur’s Camelot. From Cadbury Castle's peak, gaze across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor and King Alfred’s Tower, a landscape once transformed by the sea or cloaked in wild woodland, where medieval royalty hunted between the trees. Wander among the mighty ramparts to uncover … Continue reading Cadbury Castle
Wander beneath the thick canopy of Wareham Forest, following the Sika Trail toward Wareham itself. Cross the railway tracks to reach the River Piddle, where a 15th-century bridge carries you over its quiet waters. Climb the hill to discover one of the most remarkable Saxon churches in the country, then descend along the ancient Saxon … Continue reading Coldharbour
Wonder along the old drove roads of hidden Dorset. Cross the single track railway as it travels from Yeovil to Weymouth under the shadow of the haunting Bubb Hill. Visit the little St Mary’s Church, with a broken gravestone of a murder victim, before following the country lanes between the oak lined fields. Skim the … Continue reading Redford
Hidden high the valley of the River Nadder, discover the little village of Swallowcliffe, compete with its local pub saved by the residents then bought by a Top Gear presenter. Wander past the site of the lost chapel, up onto the high hills sheltered in Swallowcliffe Wood, to views of White Sheet Hill topped with … Continue reading Swallowcliffe
Delve deep into the mystical woodland of Hooke Park. Weave between the gnarly oaks, towering beech and lines of red cedar, the floor under the dark canopy broken by shards of sunshine and architectural creations by the hidden school. Follow the footsteps of Iron Age tribes and medieval hunters through a landscape of deep ravines … Continue reading Hooke Park
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
Begin at a unique church that has been saved by the spirit of Thomas Hardy, once described by King Charles III as exquisite and complete with original aged oak beams. Pass the 17th century Manor House of Anderson, growing old as its formal garden, driveway and river crossing fade back to the landscape. In World … Continue reading Anderson and Combs Ditch
