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Main Instructor:

Chris Pole

Hosted By:

Chris Pole

Walk Description:

A new walk from Cranborne garden Centre leading out into the beautiful countryside surrounding the village.

We will pass along bridleways and into a forest before crossing the main road and returning along a track. Then there will be a climb up to castle hill. 

Returning from here to the garden centre and refreshments.

Cranborne derives its name from the Crane stream which flows through it. The village had  considerable importance holding markets and fairs. There is evidence of Roman occupation and their remains were found in the mid 19th century near the watercress beds. 

The Saxon's established a priory by 930 AD. 

Two inns remain in Cranborne out of seven originally.

Castle hill is a motte and bailey type built by the Normans (after 1066 AD)

Cranborne manor which can be seen from the carpark was a hunting lodge later being used to entertain royalty. The house was described as the loveliest maor house in Dorset. It has a dungeon which was later made into a larder.

Not visible from this walk as well hidden is the Ancient Technology Centre. This is an outdoor education centre neat the school.

Please park towards the the top end of the carpark where the grass starts. Toilets are next to the cafe but you need to go through the shop to access them. 

This walk may be muddy but I will do a recce nearer the time to see if the ground is dry enough for this walk as we pass over a stream on a small plank bridge.

Location Notes:

Please park at the top end of the carpark on the grass. Toilets next to the cafe, need to walk through the shop to access.