Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
The best running trails in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
4.3
(26)
1,923
runners
127
runs
Jogging in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve offers a unique experience across a landscape defined by distinctive geological and natural features. The area is characterized by its sarsen stones, large sandstone boulders scattered across the valley floor, and expansive open chalk grasslands. Runners will find routes traversing dry valleys and undulating grassy slopes, providing varied terrain for different fitness levels.
Best jogging routes in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
- The most popular jogging route is Portesham & The…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
2.5
(2)
5
runners
10.4km
01:13
220m
220m
Embark on a moderate jogging adventure through the Portesham & The Valley of Stones loop in Dorset. This 6.4-mile (10.4 km) route, typically completed in about 1 hour and 13…
21
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
13
runners
36.6km
04:24
710m
710m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Tips from the Community
When you look out over Abbotsbury, the rolling hills present a striking landscape shaped by thousands of years of human hands. Instead of smooth, uniform hills, the slopes are dramatically stepped and contoured, telling the story of ancient and medieval survival. The Rolling Hills View The chalk and limestone hills of the South Dorset Ridgeway drop sharply into the Abbotsbury Vale. This creates a dramatic contrast: steep, stark ridges covered in wild gorse and grass that soften into a green, undulating basin before meeting the sea. The landscape is a quilt of ancient hedgerows, steep valleys, and dramatic mounds, the most prominent being Chapel Hill, which rises like a small wave right on the edge of the village.
0
0
Standing at the crest of the South Dorset Ridgeway gives you one of the most striking coastal panoramas in the UK. Because the ridge rises sharply just inland from the coast, the landscape unfolds below you like a massive, living map. The most dominating feature from this height is the massive sweep of Chesil Beach, a 18-mile barrier of shingles stretching out toward the Isle of Portland in the distance. Trapped right behind it is The Fleet, a shallow, glassy lagoon. From the Ridgeway, you get a clear view of how this narrow strip of water mirrors the sky, contrasting sharply with the rougher English Channel waves breaking on the outer side of the bank. Looking directly down into the valley, the village of Abbotsbury looks nestled into the rolling green landscape. St Catherine’s Chapel: The 14th-century stone chapel sits entirely exposed on its own smaller hill down in the vale, looking like a tiny solitary sentinel against the backdrop of the sea. The Subtropical Gardens and Swannery: You can trace the dark, wooded canopy of the gardens and the open waterways of the swannery where the Fleet tapers off into the land. On a clear day, the perspective is incredible—you can track the entire curve of the Jurassic Coast all the way out to the red cliffs of Devon in the west.
0
0
400 plus barrows along the 17 miles of spine.
0
0
Maiden Castle from afar? It’s basically Dorset’s ultimate, oversized plate of grass lasagna. A massive, lumpy green ripple on the horizon that makes you think, "Wow, the Celts really hated mowing the lawn."
0
0
Dominating the Dorset landscape, Maiden Castle is one of Europe’s largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts. Its massive, labyrinthine earthworks were engineered around 400 BC to protect a thriving community of hundreds. The site is famous for its "war cemetery," detailing a fierce struggle against the Roman Second Legion in 43 AD. Today, its sweeping ramparts remain a masterclass in ancient defensive architecture.
0
0
So unusual to see a flying buttress on a village church!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
There are over 130 running routes available in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve, offering a wide range of options for different fitness levels and preferences. These include paths through expansive chalk grasslands and undulating dry valleys.
What makes jogging in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve a unique experience?
The reserve is renowned for its distinctive geology, particularly the 'train' of sarsen stones—large sandstone boulders scattered across the valley floor. Runners will also enjoy the expansive open chalk grasslands, rich with diverse wildflowers and butterfly species, creating a truly unique and stimulating environment for outdoor exercise.
Are there running routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier jog?
Yes, the reserve offers routes suitable for various fitness levels. While many are moderate to difficult, there are 3 easy routes available. These typically feature gentler paths through meadows, allowing for a more relaxed running experience.
What kind of natural features and landmarks can I expect to see along the trails?
Joggers can explore unique geological formations like the sarsen stones and vast chalk grasslands. Historic landmarks such as the ancient Kingston Russell Stone Circle are featured on routes like the Smitten Corner Trail Junction – Kingston Russell Stone Circle loop from Littlebredy. Further afield, you can also encounter Hardy's Monument, offering coastal views, as seen on the Upwey Wishing Well – Hardy Monument loop from Littlebredy.
Are there any circular running routes in the Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
Yes, many of the routes in the reserve are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular example is the Portesham & The Valley of Stones loop — Dorset, which takes you through iconic sarsen stones and chalk grasslands.
What do other runners enjoy most about the trails in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Runners frequently praise the dramatic scenery created by the sarsen stones, the beauty of the wildflower meadows, and the varied terrain that caters to different running preferences.
Are the running trails in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
The reserve offers a variety of trails, some of which are suitable for families, especially those looking for gentler paths through meadows. It's advisable to check the difficulty rating and distance of specific routes on komoot to ensure they align with your family's fitness levels.
Is there parking available near the running routes?
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points to the reserve. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot, or by checking local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go running in the Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
The reserve is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the best opportunities to see the chalk grasslands in full bloom with wildflowers and various butterfly species. Autumn provides stunning natural colours, while winter can offer crisp, clear runs, though conditions may be more challenging.
Are there any longer, more challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Absolutely. For experienced runners seeking a challenge, routes like the Smitten Corner Trail Junction – Kingston Russell Stone Circle loop from Littlebredy, at 13.7 miles (22.0 km), or the Upwey Wishing Well – Hardy Monument loop from Littlebredy, at 23.2 miles (37.4 km), offer significant elevation gain and comprehensive exploration of the reserve's varied terrain.
Can I spot any wildlife while jogging in the Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve?
Yes, the chalk grasslands are ecologically rich and support a diverse array of wildlife. You might spot various butterfly species, including the rare Adonis blue, as well as a variety of birds and other small mammals native to the area. Maintaining a quiet pace will increase your chances of wildlife sightings.
Most popular routes in Valley Of Stones National Nature Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.
