Enjoy our Magical Markings Adventure

If you’re searching for a brilliant and FREE outdoor activity for your children, then we have just the thing for you at our Visitor Centre. We are inviting children of any age to come and explore the secret world of the ancient sunken lanes on the Estate. According to legend, these ancient smugglers routes were worn into deep ravines by countless feet, hooves and carts and the funneling of rain over hundreds of years.

Not only are Shute’s Lane and Hell Lane said to be among the most impressive sunken paths (or ‘Holloways’) in Dorset, these cavernous, mysterious pathways hide Magical Markings cut into the rock below the ancient hedgerows and gnarled tree roots.

For those brave enough to come on our Magical Markings adventure, simply come down to the Visitor Centre and collect a trail sheet that will take you up to the shadowy depths of Shute’s Lane. Follow our trail and see if you can find all of the carvings, faces and hidden markings as you walk the ancient route. When you’ve ticked off all of our mysterious friends on your sheet, come back to the Visitor Centre to claim your Nature Detectives sticker.

There’s no booking required, so just come along and join in the fun. Happy Holloway Hunting!