From the expanding settlement of Sturminster Marshall, explore its church, timber-framed cottages, pub, and lost village remains, all set along the banks of the River Stour. Follow the route of the medieval road towards Blandford, crossing the old packhorse bridge before joining the route of the former Somerset and Dorset Railway. Cross the old turnpike … Continue reading Sturminster Marshall
Before they were roads, they were only paths. Across Dorset, routes emerged slowly, worn into the land by centuries of passage, shifting with weather and season, never entirely fixed. Some followed high ground, others slipped into holloways or vanished altogether, leaving travellers to trust instinct as much as direction. Then came the Turnpikes. Order was imposed … Continue reading Dorset Turnpikes
Explore the historically rich landscape split by two rivers and conquered by Iron Age tribes, the Romans, and Wessex Kings. From the River Stour’s shoreline at Eye Bridge, follow the water downstream to the shallow ford that was topped by Julian’s Bridge. Wander through the medieval town of Wimborne to its Saxon Minster, complete with … Continue reading Wimborne
Discover a pocket of peace surrounded by three growing towns. From the golf course that sits on its edge, venture into the vast and wild landscape of Canford Heath. Weave between gnarly branches and fallen tree trunks on a terrain of sand, skimming industrial sites that border the nature reserve. Ride or walk along the … Continue reading Canford Heath
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
The delicate little white flower signifies the coming of spring! They can easily be found anywhere in the county - on grass verges, climbing up river banks and deep in woodland - but for an extra special sight, see the list below... Please tread carefully! https://videopress.com/v/BC0cs5By?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true It is also possible to follow the snowdrops as … Continue reading Dorset Snowdrops
Venture down the smuggler’s lanes of Corfe Mullen. The route cut through the landscape by the Romans, speeding up supplies from Poole Harbour to their mighty, military Fort at Lake Farm. Cross over brick bridges that span rivers of trees, the embankments once filled with steam as the old Slow and Dirty chugged its way … Continue reading Corfe Mullen
Starting in the Iron Age and Roman landscape near Badbury Rings descend into the valley of the River Allen. Discover the fairy-tale cottage that guards the entrance to Gaunts House and the village church now left to ruin, dedicated to a murdered boy saint. Pass a brick water tower, topped with timber, standing in the … Continue reading Wimborne, Stanbridge and Chilbridge
