マパウダーでののおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

Definitely use poles on climb if hiking 🥾

Lovely view of the house from the hill

The view of giant is best from the opposite hill. When I took my photo the chalk was very dull so viewing wasn’t brilliant but I know they restore him every now and again so he should be bright again.The climb up past the giant is very steep so if hiking poles would be a great addition and grippy footwear 👟

This provides a perfect viewpoint from which to observe the large hill figure of the Cerne Giant. It's at just the right distance, not too far, to see the figure in its entirety.

This Grade I listed building incorporates part of the Abbey's original South Gateway. It was almost entirely reconstructed in the mid-18th century after a fire.

Right by your side, you have the Cerne Abbas chalk hill figure. Given that it is 108 feet (55 meters) tall, you won't be able to see the entirety of its figure from this close, but if you cross to the other side of the River Cerne, you'll have splendid views of this standing nude male with a large club in its hand.

Once you're at this well-known junction, also known as the Dorsetshire Gap, it doesn't matter which direction you head because the landscape in this area is breathtaking.

In the southern part of Fetchum Wood, very close to the village of Plush, you can enjoy running along this path among the trees, sometimes forming even a canopy with their branches. After heavy rains, it can get very muddy, so keep that in mind.

Right next to the Wessex Ridgeway, near the Dorset Gap, you can see this square earthwork, approximately 25 meters in length on each side and 1 meter above the flat ground.

Very pretty village with a number of thatched cottages and a pub.

Plush is nestled in the heart of the Dorset Downs, an area known for its rolling hills, meadows, and scenic landscapes. It's surrounded by the natural beauty of the English countryside, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic retreat. Make sure to visit the Brace of Pheasants Country Inn along the route for some delicious traditional and contemporary Dorset food. https://www.braceofpheasants.co.uk/

'Abbot's Porch' is an architectural feature of historical significance and was the original gateway to Cerne Abbey. Throughout its history, Cerne Abbey played a vital role in the local community and the region as a whole. It served not only as a religious centre but also as a place of education, charity, and culture. An honesty box, located at the entrance, asks for £2.50 donation to help towards the upkeep of the site.

The River Cerne gracefully winds its way through Cerne Abbas, meandering down the valley for about 10 miles before eventually converging with the River Frome at Dorchester. It has earned the endearing title of the "friendly river" due to the consistent bond it has shared with the villages lining its course across history. Along its tranquil journey, numerous significant landmarks have been thoughtfully erected in proximity to its banks.

The Cerne Abbas Giant is a large, ancient figure depicting a naked man holding a club, and it's often associated with various myths and fertility rituals. The origin and purpose of the Cerne Abbas Giant remain a subject of debate among historians and archaeologists. Some believe it might have had ceremonial or religious significance, while others think it could have been a more recent creation, possibly as a parody or political statement. The figure is well-known for its prominent, well-defined outline and its position on the landscape, making it a popular tourist attraction.

The Dorsetshire Gap is a very atmospheric location, very easy to imagine Medieval traders passing through it. Be aware that the bridleways too and from it are tough, the tracks marked on the maps may not exist on the ground, cycling can be hard an slow, Still worth a visit.

pub is closed Mondays and Tuesdays in winter

lovely view along the Cerne Valley and to the famous chalk hill cut figure of the Giant

perfect for rare butterflies

At Augustine’s Well’s crystal clear waters can be found to the right of the Abbey burial grounds. In the 11th century, the monks of Cerne decided that they needed a more impressive tale of their origins, so they hired a hagiographer named Gotselin to create a history of the abbey. Gotselin did his best, and came up with a story that St Augustine was travelling through Dorset when he came upon some shepherds. He asked them if they preferred to drink water or beer. The shepherds answered 'water', so he struck the ground with his staff and a spring burst forth. Another version of the story is that he had a vision in which he made the spring burst forth and cried 'Cerno El', or 'I see God', a pun on the ancient name of Cerne, which was Cernel.

The car park on the outskirts of Cerne Abbas appears to provide the best views of the giant.