Andy's October Walk1: Dorset ‘Four Peaks’ Challenge

Introduction:

This is the first of four walks I’ve planned in October to stage across two weekends, aiming to showcase Dorset’s wonderful variety, which are intended to fulfil my personal fundraiser in support of Greenpeace, helping ensure I’ve completed at least 62 miles in that month. I’m posting my walk via Ramblers so it’s widely available to all, including non-members.

Please note it isn’t implying The Ramblers Association directly supports Greenpeace, though both organisations certainly espouse a love of nature.

If you’re interested in making a donation to my ’31 Miles for Nature’ effort please contact me directly on the number quoted below and I’ll send you the link to my page.

I need to know how many are coming, so there is a booking system – see link below.

Walk Description:

I’ve yet to recce this route so some detail relies on my current OS plotting and may change. Either way, this is a demanding walk with c840m elevation, covering three of Dorset’s highest hills, plus a smaller fourth, all iron age hill forts. It’s not strictly Dorset’s equivalent of ‘3 Peaks’ because although Lewesdon Hill and Pilsdon Pen take in the two highest (279 and 277m), Lambert’s Castle (258m) comes a lowly 12th and nearby Coney’s Castle is 26th! Nevertheless, these offer lovely views across this part of the county, including Marshwood Vale and the Jurassic coast as far as Devon south and west, alongside Somerset and the Axe valley northwards. Lewesdon at this time of year offers the sight of wonderful fungi amongst the ancient oaks and beeches in this enchanting rich and calming woodland. There’s the option of very welcome refreshment at The White Lion at the end of the walk.

Note: our group walks quite briskly; this route is demanding of distance and terrain, if you have any concerns about fitness/capability please contact the walk leader in advance.

Meet Point (Description): Broadwindsor Comrades Hall 

Please use the car park considerately and liftshare wherever possible to limit the space we need, as well as our carbon footprint.

Postcode: DT8 3QP

whatthreewords code: stables.essays.conquest

Any additional guidance to reach meet point:

The post code is approximate. It’s better to use whatthreewords to be sure. Alternatively use Google Maps and enter ‘Broadwindsor Hall Defibrillator’ where you should see the hall’s private car park.  

Booking info

Please buy (free) tickets via Ticket Tailor using the following link:

https://buytickets.at/walksfordorset4050ramblers/1864279

Numbers are limited and at the discretion of the walk leader. Anyone turning up without booking beyond the planned maximum for the walk may not be permitted to start.

If you cannot attend please cancel your ticket through the site so others can take a place. If any issues please contact the walk leader.

Leader: Andy

Contact number: 07786377101

What you need to consider:

• Bring packed lunch – there are brief drink/snack stops
• Toilet visit – at start and end of walk
• Good walking boots/shoes – be prepared for anything!
• Bring enough drink for the walk
• Dogs – assistance dogs only please