Hambledon Hill
Hambledon Hill is one of the most iconic sites in Dorset AONB.
Rising steeply to 190 metres above the Blackmore Vale and the River Stour, this Iron Age hillfort provides a natural viewing platform over the small fields and villages below.
The views into the neighbouring counties of Wiltshire and Somerset are fantastic!
Hambledon is not only one of the best-preserved Neolithic landscapes in Europe, but also of ecological value.
It is a Site of Special Scientific Importance (SSSI) and a National Nature Reserve.
The site seems to have been abandoned around 300BC, possibly in favour of the nearby Hod Hill.
Walking
There are various starting points for walks up Hambledon Hill.
We started our walk at the Cricketers pub in Shroton.
This 8-mile circular goes through three attractive Dorset villages, Shroton, Stourpaine and Child Okeford and it combines Hambledon Hill with Hod Hill.
Enjoy the views from the top of both Iron Age hillforts!
Look for the chalk ridge of Cranborne Chase to the east, Shaftesbury and King Alfred’s Tower to the north, and the distant Purbeck Hills to the south.
If this is a bit too much, then park in the village of Child Okeford and follow the rugged path up the steep slope to the top of Hambledon Hill.
Walk along its ramparts and you will be rewarded with breath-taking 360-degree views.
Wessex Ridgeway
If you are up for a challenge, then you should consider the Wessex Ridgeway Trail.
This walking, cycling and horse-riding trail offers vistas across the county and breath-taking views far beyond.
The route meanders across the chalk downs, climbs magnificent hillforts such as Hod Hill and Hambledon Hill.
Along the way you will pass many attractive villages such as Cerne Abbas and take in stunning views of the Blackmore and Marshwood Vales.
The trail finishes in the seaside town of Lyme Regis on the dramatic Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
North Dorset Trailway
Explore the Blackmore Vale and follow the North Dorset Trailway.
This 14-mile walking, cycling and horse-riding route from Sturminster Newton to Spetisbury, runs along the route of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway line.
There are numerous access points onto the Trailway, which offers a firm surface, safe crossing points, no stiles, and most importantly is free from motorised traffic.
There are links to the Stour Valley Way, The Wessex Ridgeway, The Jubilee Trail, and Hod and Hambledon Hills.
Cool Places to Explore
Hod Hill | Shaftesbury | Cranborne Chase AONB | Win Green | Old Wardour Castle | Milton Abbas.
Cool Places to Eat
The Cricketers at Shroton | The King John Inn | The Willows Vintage Tearoom.