Circle the mighty hillfort of Ham Hill and climb to the peak of Montacute Castle, through deep holloways and thick woodland. Follow ramparts on the tips of the slopes with views across river valleys and the Somerset Levels. Cross ancient Roman roads and medieval village remains to discover the Roman crossroads haunted by a highwayman. … Continue reading Ham Hill
From Stourhead to Hengistbury Head, the river flows for over 61 miles through the heart of Dorset. The names derives from the Old English meaning 'Strong One', providing Dorset with the lifeblood that led to its development in the form of food, water, transportation, communication and defence. Explore the landscape, all along its course, crossing … Continue reading River Stour
Dorset's second largest river travels through Thomas Hardy country. From the high valleys in the heart of Dorset to the Vale of the Great Dairies, it merges with the sea in Poole Harbour. Discover a number of places to explore on its path, with tales of punished maidens to fierce Viking raids. Dorset Rivers Click … Continue reading River Frome
The River Piddle travels for 18 miles through two different landscapes. To the north are towering chalk hills of the Dorset Downs, which feed its smalls spring at Alton Pancreas. The flow travels south to then divert to the east through flat water meadows, merging with the Frome into the salty water at Poole Harbour. … Continue reading River Piddle
The River Brit, at only 8 miles long, travels from the high hills of Beaminster Down, through the Saxon town of Beaminster and into the Marshwood Vale. It carves its way between the steep sided slopes, through narrow valleys, to meet the sea at West Bay, passing county manors, riverside cottages and a dismantled railway. … Continue reading River Brit
Under the shadow of Melbury Beacon, follow the magical, healing springs of the Fontmell Brook. Starting at the waterfalls and lakes of Collyer’s Brook, with towering earthworks on the slopes to the east, enter into a hidden corner of the Blackmore Vale. Passing medieval fishponds and wild nature reserves, with views to Hambledon Hillfort, discover … Continue reading Fontmell Magna
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
