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Main Instructor:

Chris Pole

Hosted By:

Chris Pole

Walk Description:

A route from The Shack in Spetisbury.

Taking a loop across the river/weir, we walk along the water meadows before crossing the river by

bridge to the main road. From here we head up to the trailway.

Going away from the old railway station we walk along this excellent trail, before climbing up though

woods, emerging onto fields and grassy paths. 

We will go past an old tower used in the past for silage and into some beautiful countryside with

stunning views. 

There is a downhill section which could be slippy after rain. A quiet lane joins some grassy paths and a

field then gently uphill into woodland.

A long descent leads down a country lane to Charlton Marshall.

From here up onto the trailway then a mile on the flat before arriving in Spetisbury.

Toilets are right at the back of the building accessed across the yard.

You many wish to bring a snack and coffee to have on the walk or afterwards.

This walk is around 6 to 7 miles depending on the route taken. Therefore approx 2.5 hours.

One uphill section is made easier by going up through the wood on a gradual gradient.

One stile.

Good walking shoes required. 

Paws on poles suggested for road walking.

The Somerset and Dorset railway ceased to exist on March 6th 1966 after many other railways were

closed by Beeching. It was an important area for rail links having opened in 1860. At the Spetisbury

section are the remains of the station platforms. Volunteers took over in 2012 and have cleared the area

which was completely overgrown and it can now be used for picnics as seating is provided.

The trailway goes as far as Sturminster Newton mainly along the old railway.

At the Charlton Marshall station the short platforms are still there along with an interesting history

board.

(This route may be extended to about 7 miles once I have completed a further recce)

Location Notes:

The turning into Clapcotts Farm is opposite Spetisbury Primary School. It is at the far end of the village if you are coming from Wimborne on the right hand side on A350. There is a large car park. (CP)