Join Tess of the Vale and gain access to over 375 of the best and most unique walks, rides and adventures in Dorset.
New ones released, and old ones updated, every week*!
*Subject to weather conditions, and/or other rare external forces!
All of the routes on the website have been walked or ridden by me, built from years of exploring, researching and learning about the county’s landscape. They are viable, legitimate and accessible, with clear instructions, directions and parking places.
But, these are not just walks. They are adventures!
Every route comes with their own detailed maps, directions, photographs and videos, taken directly from the footpath or bridleway. I ‘dig’ into the landscape to find the history, stories, folklore, archaeology, ancient tracks, lost places and little details that many may walk straight past. Some routes take you to well-known places. Others take you down paths you’ve probably never noticed, or even knew existed.
I’ve built a growing library of information about Dorset, its rivers, bridges, hillforts, ancient monuments, Roman landscape, lost places, famous people, film locations, follies, highwaymen and more. Much of this is free to explore on the website, and you can use it to discover somewhere new or simply follow your own interests. But the walks take you further. The information gathered over years of research is woven into the routes, so when you actually go out into the landscape, you can discover the places, stories and details for yourself.
As a member, you get access to the full depth of Tess of the Vale, including:
- 375+ walks, rides and adventures across Dorset
- Detailed directions and practical information for every route
- My own maps, created specifically for the walks
- Parking information and access details
- Photographs taken along the actual route
- Video montage of the route, including stiles and gates
- In depth history, folklore and stories about the places you’re exploring
- New routes added regularly, with existing walks updated when needed
- The ever-growing collection of Dorset discoveries, brought together in one place
- Elements that appeal to all interests from viewpoints and rivers to murder and mayhem
- Routes for all sorts of tastes, from gentle rambles to longer, more adventurous days out
You can use the walks as inspiration for your own adventures or simply follow one and let me do the research for you. And because I’m out there doing it too, if a route needs changing, I’ll know about it and update it.
Nevertheless, Dorset is a big place and maintaining this access is the responsibility of us all; not only those who own the land or the council, but also us, simply by using and enjoying these paths and bridleways. Together, we can help ensure that our ability to explore Dorset is never lost.
If you come across an access problem, please let me know or report it directly to Dorset Council so that it can be investigated and, where necessary, addressed.
The individually tailored maps can be more up to date than their OS counterparts as well as being simple and easy to read, highlighting important aspects along the route. They provide a different perspective on the surrounding landscape and, because I create them specifically for each adventure, they often present details and changes that aren’t always reflected on standard maps. But I must advise that they are used alongside an OS Explorer map.
The membership costs £7 a month or £70 for the year, opening the full access to all the varied adventures into the Dorset countryside and its hidden secrets.
As an annual member, and armed with a with a Tess of the Vale membership card, you can also enjoy 10% discounts, or treats, with participating local businesses. If you are a business that would like to be part of this please get in touch, it is something I plan to focus on and grow. It’s my little way of saying thank you for supporting and helping me continue what I do and, hopefully, encouraging you to discover a few more of the brilliant independent pubs, cafes, cheese makers, vine yards, art galleries and many more, that also make Dorset special. More details on the members welcome page.
You can cancel at anytime (first payment non refundable), serving those that are only visiting the area on holiday.
I hope you will join me on this journey, exploring everything Dorset is worth, escaping the crowds and finding your own special places!
Please feel free to share where you go, tagging Tess of the Vale on social media!
If you have any questions, queries or problems, contact me, even if you get lost somewhere! I’m happy to help and support, wherever you may be!
Look forward to welcoming you.
Get 10% off or a treat at the businesses below using a Tess of the Vale Membership card:
The Trooper, Stourton Caundle
