We are the North Dorset Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
The walk begins in Buckland Newton and uses sections of Hardy's way and the Wessex Ridgeway taking in landscapes described by Hardy in his novel 'The Woodlanders'. It then gently ascends along Bladeley Hill, with views of Whitecombe Bottom, and then skirts around Giant's Head Farmhouse, along Little Minterne Hill to Dogbury Gate. It was here that the opening scene of the Woodlanders is supposed to take place with enquires for directions to 'Little Hintock', now thought to be based on 'The Hermitage'. At this point, the return leg begins onto Lyons Gate Farm and then past Revels Farm, thought to be 'The Revellers Inn' in the Woodlanders novel. The track climbs up Ridge Hill before descending back into Buckland Newton.
The terrain is undulating and comprises lanes, tracks, droves and field paths. It will be muddy for short sections.
Packed Lunch
Registered Assistance dogs only.
Booking opens at 10.00am 15/02/202 and closes at 10.00am 20/02/2024.
Meet and park neatly at the 'Gaggle of Geese' pub car park in Buckland Newton. There will be a £2 donation for each car.
