Thornhill

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

Rodden

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

Dorset On Film

Dorset’s ageless and rural beauty, combined with the expanse of open landscape and peaceful atmosphere, has encouraged directors and film crews to immortalise the county in a number of Hollywood blockbusters, award winning television shows and music videos. Below is a list of productions which have used the county’s awe-inspiring landscape as their backdrop. Click … Continue reading Dorset On Film

Dorset Bridges, Viaducts and Tunnels

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

Muckleford

From a nature reserve that has grown from a chalk quarry, carved into the steep slopes, discover the little, lost hamlet of Muckleford. Follow the floodplains of the River Frome to the cursed estate of Frampton Court with its decorative Peacock Bridge, claimed to have been built by Christopher Wren. Leave the medieval landscape behind … Continue reading Muckleford

Motcombe

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 D Day

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

Christchurch

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