Follow ancient paths and Holloway’s through the landscape of Bere Regis. Pass the mysterious Devil’s Stone, sitting at the peak of Black Hill, surrounded by historical activity, to the redundant church at Turners Puddle. Find the little River Piddle with perfect muddy beaches for the odd wild swim in the shallow waters and a swing on the rope. Climb into Piddles Wood the wildness running parallel to the busy A35. Return via Shitterton to Bere Regis, the home to Thomas Hardy’s real life D’Urberville family.
Distance: 5 miles/8km
Time: 2-3 hours
Total climb: 400ft.
Max height: 370ft.
Min height: 100ft.
Terrain: Track, path, road and field.
Exertion: Easy.
Start: Free parking on West Street (BH20 7HL) or the town centre car park (Postcode: BH20 7HA, Grid Reference: SY846947).
Map: OS Explorer OL15 Purbeck and South Dorset
How to get there: From Poole/Bournemouth, take the A35 west. When arriving at Bere Regis, turn off the roundabout towards the village and then right to West Street. The car park is on your left.
Dogs: On leads where livestock is present and in accordance with any notices on the walk and The Countryside Code.
Refreshments: The Royal Oak and the Hall and Woodhouse pub the Drax Arms in Bere Regis.
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