The best city hikes and walks in Hambledon Hill National Nature Reserve

The structure you see today stands in isolation in the flood meadows and acts as a major landmark for the area. North Dorset Trailway: The former railway line's route, including the embankment leading up to the remaining arches, has been repurposed as the North Dorset Trailway. This popular multi-use path is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, and stretches for miles along the former trackbed. Stour Meadows Park: The park itself is a beautiful area for recreation and nature walks, situated next to the River Stour, and the preserved arches are a key historic feature on the route. Essentially, the remaining spans of the railway bridge are a powerful, tangible reminder of a celebrated piece of British railway history that once played a vital role in the commercial and social life of Blandford Forum.

The former railway bridge in Stour Meadows (part of the wider flood meadows near the River Stour) is significant for several reasons: The Line: It carried the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway line, which ran a crucial cross-country route connecting Bath to Bournemouth. The Town's Station: The bridge was essential for the railway to reach the final location of Blandford Forum Station, which opened north of the River Stour in 1863. This required the extension of the line from its original temporary terminus south of the river at Blandford St Mary. Closure: The entire S&DJR line, often referred to simply as the "S&D," was closed as a result of the infamous Beeching Cuts. The Blandford station closed to passengers in March 1966, with the track eventually lifted around 1969. Demolition & Preservation: Following the line's closure, the original railway bridge that crossed the River Stour was largely demolished. However, two of its arches/spans were saved and are still visible in the meadows today. This is thanks to the efforts of local groups, like the Blandford Railway Arches Trust, who recognized their historical importance.

A very nice route indeed. Nothing too demanding at all. Give it a whirl!!!

In addition to the main rail bridge spanning the river, smaller bridges were built to allow traffic and pedestrians to cross the cuttings and track as it travelled north-west. Three bridges were built for this purpose and all of them remain integral to the navigation of the town today. Arguably the most distinctive of them is the Alexandra Street pedestrian footbridge, above the site of the dismantled station. Constructed from iron and now partially supported by four narrow legs, the bridge stands at what was once the northern end of the station, where the single-line section to Templecombe began. Blandford station remained open until 7 March 1966, when the entire line from Bath to Bournemouth closed to passengers. Goods traffic continued for a further three years, but the station was finally closed and the track lifted in 1969. Following the closure, the Damory railway bridges, on the southern approach to the station, were eventually demolished in 1978.

Black Cactus is a very friendly cafe with delicious food. you can charge up, recharge and refresh. Nice space to park your bikes right infront too. dogs also welcome.

There are toilets here - usually open during the day

Opened in 1997, Preetz Bridge was the first pedestrian bridge built to cross the River Stour. To the west, you can see two arches that are the last remains of the old railway line of this town.

Cracking little spot on the edge of the river Stour to stop for lunch, or even just a quick break from a day's riding!