Exploring Dorset - Highlights of Inland Dorset

To explore inland Dorset, consider visiting charming towns like Sherborne and Dorchester, exploring the Blackmore Vale, or visiting historical sites like Corfe Castle and the Cerne Abbas Giant, all offering a mix of history, nature, and culture. 

Here's a more detailed look at some of the highlights of inland Dorset:

Towns and Villages:

• Sherborne: Known for its honey-colored buildings and historic sites, including Sherborne Abbey. 
• Dorchester: Delve into the history and culture of the county with visits to the Dorset County Museum and the Roman Town House. 
• Milton Abbas: Explore the classic Dorset Downs countryside and chalk downlands. 
• Sturminster Newton: Discover the beautiful Blackmore Vale. 
• Tyneham: Explore the ghost village abandoned in 1943 

Historical Sites and Attractions:

• Corfe Castle: A thousand-year-old royal castle shaped by warfare, offering a glimpse into Dorset's history. 
• Cerne Abbas Giant: An ancient chalk hill figure and traditional Dorset village. 
• Lulworth Castle and Park: Discover breathtaking views over the Dorset countryside from the Lulworth Castle tower, picnic in the grounds, and explore the historically significant Roman Catholic Chapel of St. Mary's. 
• Clouds Hill: The rural retreat of T E Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). 
• Kingston Lacy: A lavish family home re-imagined as a Venetian Palace in the rural Dorset countryside. 
• Hardy's Cottage: The birthplace of Thomas Hardy. 
• Hardy's House, Max Gate: An atmospheric Victorian home designed and lived in by Thomas Hardy. 
• The Tank Museum: Located in Bovington, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history of tanks and armored vehicles

Exploring inland Dorset within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) takes you beyond the Jurassic Coast into a tapestry of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and historic landscapes.

Inland Dorset trades coastal drama for subtle charm—think ancient trails, wildlife encounters, and echoes of history. It’s a slower, deeper way to soak Dorset's magic.

Here’s what you can discover away from the shore:

Hiking the Hinterland

Inland Dorset’s trails weave through diverse terrain, offering both gentle strolls and hearty treks:

• Dorset Downs: These chalk hills are crisscrossed with paths like the Wessex Ridgeway, a 62-mile route from Lyme Regis to Marlborough (you can dip in for day hikes). A standout is the 8-mile loop around Cerne Abbas, passing the Cerne Giant—a 180-foot chalk figure etched into the hillside, steeped in mystery.
• Purbeck Hills: Rugged and compact, they’re perfect for shorter hikes. The 5-mile Corfe Castle to Swanage walk blends castle ruins with heathland views.
• Blackmore Vale: This clay valley in West Dorset offers flatter, pastoral rambles—try the 6-mile Stour Valley Way section near Sturminster Newton for riverside peace.

Cycling Through the Countryside

Dorset’s inland routes cater to all riders:

• North Dorset Trailway: A 14-mile, mostly flat path on an old railway line from Sturminster Newton to Blandford Forum. It’s car-free, family-friendly, and dotted with views of the Stour Valley. Bike rentals are available in Blandford.
• Purbeck Hills: Mountain bikers can tackle steep climbs and descents around Wareham or Corfe Castle—routes like the 12-mile Purbeck Loop mix challenge with scenery.
• Dorset Downs: Quiet lanes and bridleways here suit road cyclists—pedal from Dorchester to Shaftesbury for a 30-mile rolling ride.

Horse Riding

Saddle up to explore Dorset’s wilder side:

• Studland Stables: Near the coast but venturing inland, they offer hacks across Purbeck heathlands and woodlands—think 1-2 hour rides spotting deer or rare birds.
• Bride Valley: Further west, equestrian centers near Bridport run treks through the Marshwood Vale, a quieter, lush corner of the AONB.

Wildlife and Nature

Inland Dorset is a biodiversity hotspot:

• Purbeck Heaths: This sprawling heathland near Wareham is a haven for all six native UK reptiles (like the rare smooth snake) and birds like nightjars. Wander the trails from Hartland Moor for a chance to spot them.
• Fontmell and Melbury Downs: A chalk grassland reserve with butterflies (think Adonis blues) and orchids. The 3-mile circular walk here is serene and rich with life.
• Ancient Woodlands: Places like Powerstock Common near Bridport offer shaded walks through oak and ash trees, alive with woodpeckers and badgers.

Historical Gems

The inland landscape is layered with history:

• Maiden Castle: Near Dorchester, this massive Iron Age hillfort—Britain’s largest—spans 47 acres. A 2-mile loop around its ramparts offers views and a tangible past.
• Hambledon Hill: Another Iron Age fort near Child Okeford, its 4-mile hike combines archaeology with sweeping vistas over the Blackmore Vale.
• Corfe Castle: A Norman ruin in the Purbeck Hills, explorable on foot or as part of a longer ramble—its village below is a postcard-perfect stop.

Practical Tips

• Terrain: Paths range from muddy (post-rain) to chalky—waterproof boots are a must in wet seasons.
• Maps: OS Explorer maps (OL15 for Purbeck, 117 for Cerne Abbas) or apps like Komoot help navigate.
• Access: Start points like Dorchester, Blandford, or Wareham have parking and bus links (check Morebus or Damory schedules).
• Seasonal Vibes: Spring brings wildflowers, autumn paints the woods gold, and winter offers stark, quiet beauty.