If you’re looking to find the true rural heart of North Dorset, the untouched landscape that feels unchanged for centuries, then this might be the walk you’re looking for.
Following paths tucked into the rolling countryside that sits below the more glamorous ridge walks, you’ll avoid any big climbs, and yet manage to enjoy almost constant stunning views.
We took our time with this walk, and it felt like a mini holiday. We didn’t see another person (other than a couple enjoying their own back garden as we strolled past with a wave), and felt like we were lost in Enid Blyton’s Dorset.
The route follows old green lanes and winds through the thick centuries-old hedges that are bounding the small, oddly-shaped fields so typical of old Dorset.
A few paths were very overgrown – we walked in early July, and a sturdy stick was soon collected to beat back the nettle and bramble at regular intervals.
Stiles through hedges were rarely sturdy and well kept (seemingly typical in North Dorset!), but mostly they did exist and were entirely usable. The ones crossing streams were the most solid, thankfully!
A couple of times we couldn’t see the exit to a field until we were literally right on top of it – trust the map, the stiles and bridges ARE there, they’re just buried in the hedgerows!
Parking is easy in Okeford Fitzpaine village – and there’s a lovely village shop as well as a pub for a post-walk ice cream or a pint!
