We are the North Dorset Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Julia M.
From the crossroads we pass Sydling Church, and a tithe barn with an unsympathetic roof, to reach Huish Farm. We follow a good farm road up a steepish ascent and then descend into picturesque Pond and Crete Bottoms, watching out for hares.
After coffee at Forcey’s Tower, we continue along Crete Bottom and ascend to Jackman’s Cross and the Iron Age village at Grimstone Down, with glorious views in all directions, including to the Hardy Monument.
We turn north along the Wessex Ridgeway and have lunch at a little Sculpture Park before following the ridge to Higher City Farm. Finally, we descend a steepish grassy path from Cowdown Hill back to Sydling.
Walking on tracks, bridleways, paths and a couple of short road sections – but boots essential and poles recommended. Gaiters/over trousers also suggested at this time of year. Only a couple of stiles.
An ancient landscape of chalk downs, dry valleys, farmland and crystal-clear chalk streams.
Packed lunch.
Assistance Dogs only.
Booking opens at 10.00 07/04/26 and closes 10.00 14/04/26
Email a contact phone number to the walk leader using the link in the black box near the top of the page.
09h50 at the bus shelter at the crossroads of High Street and Church Lane, Sydling St Nicholas. Directions and Parking Park sensibly in Church Lane, High Street or other roads in Sydling. Postcode for nearby village hall is DT2 9NX. The OS grid reference for the meeting point is SY632994 and what3words is heckler.piglet.optimally. Mobile Phone No. (to contact the leader on the day of the hike) 07713 621672.
