Melbury Beacon walk
Melbury Down was bought in memory of English novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, to protect the landscape in which his novels of the Blackmore Vale are set. On this longer walk, you'll discover an open expanse of flowery downland, excellent butterfly populations and magnificent views.
Total steps: 4
Total steps: 4
Start point
Car park at the top of Spread Eagle Hill. Compton Abbas, Dorset SP7 0DT. Grid ref: ST886187
Step 1
Turn left out of the car park and follow the road north to Shaftesbury for about 330yd (300m).
Step 2
Walk through the gate and continue straight on, following the fence line towards Melbury Beacon. Drop down into 'the saddle' and continue straight up Melbury Down.
Step 3
Once on the Beacon, take in the magnificent 360 degree view of the Blackmore Vale, Vale of Wardour and Shaftesbury.
Step 4
From the Beacon, head left over the stile, taking a more southerly route along the fence until you join the path back to the main road and to the car park where you originally started.
End point
Car park at the top of Spread Eagle Hill. Compton Abbas, Dorset SP7 0DT. Grid ref: ST886187
Trail map
More near here
Fontmell Down walk
A short circular walk that takes in the cross dyke (wall and ditch) and chalk downland landscape, and the wildlife on Fontmell Down, with far-reaching views.
Hod Hill circular walk
This short walk skirts the ramparts of the Iron Age fort at Hod Hill. Perched high above a meander on the River Stour, if offers sweeping views over the Dorset countryside.
Bonham Wood walk at Stourhead
WiltshireThis gentle walk takes you behind the Temple of Apollo through the picturesque Bonham Wood, and returns along a WWII airfield. A springtime hotspot also for daffodils and bluebells.
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