An ancient and beautiful ridge hike — Wessex Ridgeway

Ancient history is everywhere on this highlight-filled hike, which visits a burial chamber older than Stonehenge and a stone circle hailed as one of greatest marvels of prehistoric Britain.



To make the overall itinerary work, this stage would typically be 8 miles (12.9 km). However, to ensure a decent… read more

Expect breathtaking views over the rolling Wiltshire countryside and gentle walking throughout on this stage.



With 11.9 miles (19.2 km) of distance, 675 feet (206 m) of uphill, and 775 feet (236 m) of downhill, this stage pushes-up the tempo slightly but should feel leisurely.



From Beckhampton, the trail… read more

Crumbling churches full of character and spectacular views from peaceful hilltops combine on this hike.



Ratcheting-up the intensity a little more, this stage has 12.6 miles (20.3 km) of distance and 700 feet (213 m) of uphill. With a general downhill trajectory, however, the hike should be manageable… read more

This stage explores a unique 14th-century priory and rises above the oldest White Horse hill-carving in Wiltshire.



In typical form, the intensity is stepped-up once again on this stage, which has 13 miles (33.7 km) of distance and 1,500 feet (457 m) of ascent to contend with. With some challenging climbs… read more

Prehistoric earthworks fuse with medieval buildings and magnificent views over the Wiltshire landscape on this hike.



After four stages of increasing-intensity, this hike drops it down a gear with 9.7 miles (15.6 km) of distance, 700 feet (213 m) of uphill and an easygoing 1,025 feet (312 m) of downhill… read more

You explore a wildlife-rich lake with movie-star connections, a crumbling 12th-century church and finish in a village with a history that stretches back 800 years.



With 12.8 miles (20.6 km) of distance, 800 feet (244 m) of uphill, and 700 feet (213 m) of downhill, this is a decent walk but should feel… read more

Crumbling castles, Grade I-listed buildings, and stunning scenery combine on this hike.



Whilst the distance is down slightly from the previous stage at 11.3 miles (18.2 km), there is more uphill and downhill to contend with on this hike — a near-even 1,300 feet (396 m) — so it should get you pumping.



You… read more

This stage climbs to the highest point in the Cranborne Chase, visits Dorset’s highest village, and explores one of the best-preserved Iron Age hill forts in Britain.



With 14.2 miles (22.9 km) of distance, 1,500 feet (457 m) of uphill, and 1,325 feet (404 m) of downhill, this is one of the toughest hikes… read more

Expect breathtaking views from picturesque hilltops, idyllic scenery, and heritage-rich villages on this stage.



After a tough previous hike, things ease up a little on this stage, which is 11.6 miles (18.7 km) long. However, you have 1,200 feet (366 m) of climbing and a tough ascent of Shillingstone Hill… read more

You see the largest and best-known chalk hill figure in Britain on this hike, as well as some lovely 15th-century architecture.



With 13.1 miles (21.1 km) of distance, 1,225 feet (373 m) of uphill, and 1,500 feet (457 m) of downhill, this is a challenging stage but should be manageable.



From Lower Antsy… read more

Dreamy Dorset countryside combines with medieval architecture and unspoiled nature on this stage.



One of the toughest treks of the Collection, you hike 14.5 miles (23.3 km) and climb 1,250 feet (381 m). However, with 1,425 feet (434 m) of downhill, there is a general downwards trajectory.



To begin, the… read more

You climb to the highest point in Dorset on this stage and enjoy fine views over the rolling countryside.



Whilst the distance is a manageable 10.6 miles (17 km), there is 1,475 feet (449.6 m) of ascent crammed into the hike. To make it tougher still, there is 200 feet (61 m) more uphill than downhill… read more

The final stage takes you through gorgeous scenery to the Jurassic Coast, where you visit one of the best fossil-hunting spots in the UK and the enchanting seaside town of Lyme Regis.



With 14.2 miles (22.9 km) of distance, 1,400 feet (427 m) of uphill, and 1,800 feet (549 m) of downhill, this is a challenging… read more