Dorset walks 4- Litton Cheney, Little Bredy and the Valley of the Stones

These peaceful villages snuggle into the softly folding chalk escarpments of the Bride valley forming a part of a hidden Dorset overlooked by the crowds as they rush east and west along the A35.

The route climbs to the ridge high above the valley giving level walking and wonderful views; while a slight detour takes you to the Valley of Stones nature reserve. which is considered to be one of the finest examples  of a Sarsen stone boulder train in Great Britain (beat that Devon!). Conditions at end of the last ice age caused sandstone on top of nearby chalk hilltops to fragment and slump downhill. There is evidence that the site was used as an ancient 'quarry' with stones being taken from the area for use at other local megalithic sites such as the stone circle you'll pass.

Distance: 9 miles 3.5 hrs

hrs

Hills and Views 4 - Stonebarrow (SY412930)

Lofty Stonebarrow Hill was originally part of the coaching route between Bridport and Charmouth; abandoned because of the impracticably steep ascents and descents.

 Today it is still popular with horse riders, the odd jogger and dogs walking their owners. The area is part of the National Trust's Golden Cap estate and as their car park is sited at the top of the hill, you get the view without the struggle...except the struggle for change...even here you have to pay parking charges..

To the right in the blue distance is Lyme to the left rises Golden Cap, Dorset's highest coastal point; while at your feet wind acres of paths and a million picnic spots. In Autumn you'll find blackberries in abundance.