Whether you want to stroll out from Old Red Lion or drive to a local part of the county, there are a huge number of fabulous walks in Dorset. Unfortunately we can’t list them all (or pick a favourite as there are so many!) but we have provided a...
Dorset Walks
Fontmell and Melbury Downs
Just a 15 minute drive from Old Red Lion House are the Fontmell and Melbury Downs which have open expanses of flowery downland and far-reaching views. Ancient chalk grassland is now very rare. In the last 70 years an estimated 80% of Britain’s chalk grassland has been lost, but...
Hambledon Hill
5 miles northwest of Blandford Forum, Hambledon Hill stands 630 feet (192 metres) over the surrounding area; perfect for fantastic views on clear days or for the kids to scale and do battle! The hill’s human history predates Stonehenge and it is considered one of Britain’s earliest prehistoric settlements....
Langton Meadows & The River Stour
For quick access to a short walk (30 minutes or less) along the river Stour, Langton Meadows and the adjacent Stour Meadows, are a great place to stretch your legs and spot some wildlife. Located less than 5 minutes from Old Red Lion House, this mixture of riverside, grassland...
Hod Hill
Perched above the meandering River Stour, Hod Hill has stunning views over rural Dorset and is home to spectacular wildflowers and butterflies. There are a choice of walks here: either a climb to the fort and a loop around the ramparts before returning down the hill, or a circular...
The Trailway, Blandford Forum
Following the route of the old Somerset and Dorset Railway line, the Trailway is suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding. The railway line closed to traffic in 1966 and the tracks subsequently removed. The trail runs along a flat, surfaced three metre wide track suitable for pushchairs, mobility vehicles,...
Bryanston, Blandford Forum
The bridge over the River Stour isn’t far from the house and once past this you can enter the grounds of Bryanston School for a looped walk or an extended hike which will bring you back to Blandford via the village of Durweston and the Trailway. To get to...
Badbury Rings
An iron age hill fort located less than 10 minutes drive from Old Red Lion House, Badbury Rings provides a super location to explore Britain’s history up close as well as a great spot for views across the surrounding countryside. For the history buffs, the fort dates from the Iron...