Explore the Estate
Discover miles of trails across the Estate, exploring hidden sunken lanes, rolling hills, lush fields and ancient hedgerows, all while taking in sweeping views of Dorset’s stunning landscapes and the Jurassic Coast. Choose from four circular routes – take them one at a time or link them up for an extended adventure. You can pick up our Walking Guide at the Visitor Centre. So, grab your boots or wellies and immerse yourself in our beautiful countryside.
Holloways Trail
2.4 miles/50 minutes
This is a wonderfully varied 2.4 mile route, plunging you into the mysterious depths of the Holloways before bringing you out onto a well-marked path with stunning views of the Jurassic Coast, then returning you to Symondsbury through pretty fields and offering panoramic views of Dorset’s rolling hills in the distance. It takes around 50 minutes at a steady pace, but we defy you not to take longer as you stop to stare in wonder at the ancient trees towering above and take in the weird and wonderful carvings etched into the walls.
Colmers Hill Circular
1.6 miles/40 minutes
The walk up Colmers Hill is beautiful year-round, with a purple wash of bluebells in spring and a red bracken carpet in autumn. Passing through fields of sheep on the way, this route takes you up the east face of the hill to the trig point at 417m, with panoramic views over the Marshwood Vale and Jurassic coastline. Then head back to the Estate down a steep slope. Why not pack a picnic or pick up some snacks at the Visitor Centre and linger a while on the top?
Axen Nature Trail
4.1 miles/1 hour 30 minutes
This is the perfect route for taking you off the beaten track, heading deep into the Dorset countryside. Wander through sweeping pastures, ramble along ancient hedgerows bursting with wildlife as birds of prey wheel overhead and catch some of the best (but lesser known) views of Colmers Hill.
Bilshay Trail
3.0 miles/1 hour 10 minutes
This walk meanders along the River Simene, passing ancient withy (willow) beds and a striking avenue of tall poplars, originally planted for matchwood. Along the way, you’ll spot areas where we’ve planted seed-bearing plants to support our growing bird population, making this a perfect route for birdwatching. The return path takes you through a patchwork of ever-changing fields, bringing you back to the heart of the Estate.
Things to do in Dorset
Whether you’re visiting Dorset as a couple, with family and friends or on a solo trip, you’ll never be bored. It is a holiday destination that has something to suit all interests and tastes.
For Foodies
For foodies, you can enjoy award-winning food and drink in every corner of the county. Perhaps, dine out at a Michelin-starred restaurant or enjoy oysters at a beach shack, taste locally-pressed cider or wine, or indulge yourself with scrumptious apple cake?
For Beach Lovers
The Jurassic Coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country – from the sweeping golden sand of Chesil Beach to the shingle seashore by iconic limestone arch, Durdle Door, and everything in between.
The Wildlife
Then there’s the wildlife, with a fantastic array of nature reserves and country parks which are exciting to explore at any age. Each is packed with a wide variety of flora and fauna, from beavers and buzzards to bee orchids and bell heather.
For History Buffs and Fossil Fiends
Dorset is also steeped in fascinating history, from pre-historic to modern day. Lyme Regis and Charmouth are meccas for fossil hunters in search of the ancient remains of marine creatures from 185 million years ago. There are also Iron Age hill forts, the Chalk Giant at Cerne Abbas and castles galore.
