If you are looking for somewhere to get out and about over the festive break, then look no further than these ten picks on Cranborne Chase National Landscape.
From beauty spots with breath-taking views to specific medium-length walks, explore Cranborne Chase National Landscape this winter.
Get Out and About on Cranborne Chase this Winter
Here are some top picks of places to get out and about and explore on Cranborne Chase National Landscape.
Grovely Woods
Located in southern Wiltshire, Grovely Woods offers one of the largest mixed woodland in the area. Rich with wildlife it’s a great place to explore with friends and family.
Grid reference: SU041338
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Win Green & the Ox Drove
The highest point on Cranborne Chase National Landscape, Win Green provides the ‘wow factor’ with a 360 degree view across the surrounding countryside.
Grid reference: ST9233320472
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Parking at Win Green.
Coombe Bissett National Nature Reserve
With sweeping views of the National Landscape, Coombe Bissett National Nature Reserve lets you soak in thousands of years of history of the area.
Grid reference: SU11 1248
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Parking at Coombe Bissett National Nature Reserve.
Martin Down National Nature Reserve
Visit Hampshire’s Martin Down Nature Reserve, 350 hectares of unspoiled chalk downland, with a broadleaved woodland to explore on the western edge.
Grid reference: SU037201
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Parking at Martin Down National Nature Reserve.
Fontmell & Melbury Downs
A short drive from Shaftesbury, roam the slopes of Fontmell and Melbury Downs (these can be steep) and spot birds of prey swooping on the horizon.
Grid reference: ST886187
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Parking for Fontmell and Melbury Downs.
Stourhead & Alfred’s Tower
Explore the area surrounding Stourhead NT and King Alfred’s Tower. An excellent place for families to explore, take woodland walks or discover the isolated beauty of Park Hill Camp Iron Age hillfort.
Grid reference: ST748352
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Parking for Stourhead & Alfred’s Tower.
Hambledon & Hod Hills
Step over the boundary to neighbouring Dorset National Landscape and enjoy sweeping views back over into Cranborne Chase from Hambledon and Hod Hills.
Grid reference: ST 82985 13280
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Parking for Hambledon & Hod Hills.
Specific Walking Routes
Shire Rack Walk W23 (Short Walk – 3.1 miles/5 km)
A circular walk exploring the Shire Rack along the Wiltshire and Dorset border, incorporating the RSPB Garston Wood reserve.
View and download the Shire Rack Walk route.
Whitsbury & Braemore Walk W27 (Medium Walk – 5.75 miles/9.25 km)
A moderate walk with the possibility of some muddy patches. Explore paddocks, open farmland and clear woodland paths taking in Breamore House, a Saxon Church and the Mizmaze.
View and download the Whitsbury to Breamore Walk route.
Martin Down & Pentridge Walk W21 (Medium walk – 6.6 miles/10.6 km)
This loop has one long gradual climb up to Penbury Knoll, with its hill fort and wide ranging views, while taking in Martin Down National Nature Reserve.
View and download the Martin Down & Pentridge Walk route.
Stop for Refreshments…
Why not visit one the many places to rest, eat and drink while exploring Cranborne Chase National Landscape.
You can find a range of further walks, including accessible routes, here.