Follow the little Heddon River upstream as it threads north through the far corner of Exmoor to Heddon’s Mouth. After meeting the sea, trace it back inland, climbing through deep woodland and along ancient paths walked for centuries. Skim the edges of Iron Age enclosures, Bronze Age standing stones and the earthworks of forgotten castles … Continue reading Heddon River
In collaboration with The Dorset Wildlife Trust Circle around the nature reserve of Kingcombe. Once a small farming hamlet, untouched by modern development and agricultural chemicals, it has become one of Dorset Wildlife Trust’s most treasured reserves. Climb up the valley past a thatched farmhouse and lost cottages to St Mary’s Lane, crowned by the … Continue reading Kingcombe Heritage Trail
From deep within the explosive landscape of the old Cordite Factory, where heathland meets the edge of Wareham Forest, discover the scattered ruins of both defence and industry. Cross the faint lines of forgotten tramways and follow paths named after colourful local characters, from witches to wayward clergy. Skim the thick woodland edge to the … Continue reading Holton Heath
Set in a landscape once dominated by a Neolithic stone circle, explore the village of Broadmayne. Head out to West Knighton, where the fields were once filled with troops preparing for the Second World War. Follow ancient trackways down to Little Mayne, where the stone circle once stood, its stones now scattered and hidden within … Continue reading Broadmayne
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
Hidden behind a modern industrial estate, discover the sandy shores of Poole Harbour. Follow the old route of the military railway in its first phase of development to create the Cordite Way. Passing between the water and nature reserves, trace the old ruins down to the trains that still pass today. With views to Poole, … Continue reading Cordite Way
From the thatched cottages of Milton Abbas, discover the site of the lost village of Middleton. Take advantage of open access areas and venture deep into woodland to find hidden holloways, earthworks and ruins. Climb out of the valley to explore the medieval drove roads as they criss-cross the chalk slopes of central Dorset, following … Continue reading Milton Abbas to Gallows Corner
Climb up a prominent ridge which splits the West Country in two. Where springs of the River Parrett, Yeo, Axe and Brit combine, sits Winyard’s Gap. Wander through its earthwork-laden slopes, full of tales of murder, kidnap and mystery. Delve down into the valley of the ancient Harrow Way, surrounded by high peaks, which provide … Continue reading Winyard’s Gap
