Shapwick Village Centre
Shapwick Village Centre
Tips
June 27, 2022
Hiking
You can hike to the Rings, walk east to the stunning Kingston Lacy estate or wander along the riverbanks to see what wildlife you can spot. Or, all three!
July 19, 2024
Hiking
In Roman times there was a Roman Fort at Crab Farm, between Shapwick and Badbury Rings. Just to the west of the fort was a small Romano-British town, believed to be that listed in the Antonine Itinerary as Vindocladia.
October 24, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Shapwick Village Centre
4.0
(2)
27
hikers
12.9km
03:22
90m
90m
Embark on the moderate Badbury Rings, White Mill & Shapwick loop, a 8.0-mile (12.9 km) hike through the picturesque Dorset countryside. This route, taking about 3 hours and 21 minutes with 293 feet (89 metres) of elevation gain, offers a diverse experience. You will find undulating grass and gravel tracks around the historic Badbury Rings, giving way to flatter sections along the River Stour near White Mill and Shapwick. Enjoy sweeping views from the Iron Age hill fort and wander through an avenue of ancient beech trees, particularly stunning in autumn. The trail also meanders through water meadows, providing opportunities to spot diverse bird life. You will pass through the charming village of Shapwick, adding a touch of local life to your journey.
Plan your visit to this loop for spring to see bluebells and blackthorn blossom, or autumn for vibrant berries and the beautiful beech tree avenue. While much of the trail is on grass and gravel tracks, be aware that paths near the River Stour can sometimes flood, and river banks may be slippery, especially after rain. You will also encounter squeeze stiles along the route. The Badbury Rings site is part of the National Trust's Kingston Lacy Estate, which manages these historic areas. Consider checking local conditions before you set out.
This trail is nestled within the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, an area celebrated for its rolling grassland and mixed woodlands. The highlight is Badbury Rings, a magnificent Iron Age hill fort with three concentric rings, dating back as early as 500 BC. Evidence of Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman occupation has been found here, with Roman roads passing nearby. You will also visit White Mill, an 18th-century corn mill on the River Stour, where original machinery still stands.
3.0
(1)
10
hikers
12.1km
03:10
90m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
39
hikers
11.5km
03:00
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
Weather
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Monday 22 June
32°C
19°C
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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