Cerne Valley Trail

A long distance walk of 24 miles set within the Cerne Valley, Dorset. Highlights of the walk include Dorchester, the Cerne Giant and Minterne House which has a renowned Himalayan Garden. Maps, statistics and gpx route file for the walk are included.

Google Maps Open Source Maps

Statistics and Files
Start: Dorchester
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
Grid Ref: SY691906
 
Climbing: 622 metres
Walk time: 9-12 hours
Days: 1-2

Ordnance Survey Explorer Map (1:25,000)

Summary: The Cerne Valley Trail is a walking route in Dorset which heads north from Dorchester on the east side of the River Cerne to High Stoy and Dogbury and the Cerne's confluence with the River Frome. The way returns to Dorchester on the west side of the river. The eastern outward leg of the route visits Charminster, Charlton Down, Forston, Godmanstone, Nether Cerne and Cerne Abbas. Then the walk continues below the Cerne Giant which is possibly Britain's famous chalkhill figure. On the return leg the Minterne Park is passed through to Minterne Magma where a visit to Minterne House and Gardens could be enjoyed. It is a beautiful Country House which has a renowned Himalayan Garden. From Minterne Magma the walk climbs from the valley via East Hill, Up Cerne Wood and Ramshorn Hill to Gore Hill which at 265 metres is the highest point of the walk. A perfect spot for a picnic on a warm summer's day. After Gore Hill the Weseex Ridgeway is followed south via Redpost Hill, Ball's Hill, Buckland Hill, Large Bar Hill, Ridge Hill and Crete Hill to Watcombe Bottom from where the way heads back along Charminster Down back to Charminster. From here the way returns back to Dorchester along the same route taken.


Useful Links:
Cerne Valley Trail Leaflet
Long Distance Walkers Association


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