オッドストックの天然記念物・トップ7

Bokerley Dyke is a substantial linear earthwork, approximately 5.75 kilometers (3.6 miles) long, located on Cranborne Chase. It runs along part of the border between Dorset and Hampshire, specifically between Woodyates and Martin. It is part of a larger Scheduled Monument that also includes Grim's Ditch and other earthworks. The dyke has a multi-period history. It is believed to have originated in the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age as an important political and cultural boundary. In the 1st century, it was cut through by a Roman road, Ackling Dyke, which ran between Old Sarum and Badbury Rings. In the 4th century, the dyke was remodeled and brought back into use. During this period, the Roman road was blocked. A coin of Valens found during excavations dates this activity to shortly after 364 AD, with some sources suggesting it was built between 367-368 AD. This remodeling may have been a defensive measure against attacks on Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. The Roman road was eventually reopened, but the dyke may have continued to be used as a boundary after the Roman administration ended. Today, it still forms part of the border between the counties of Dorset and Hampshire.

The nature reserve was part of a group of Royal Forests until the 16th century when, unlike the New Forest, they declined and reverted to farmland and landscaped parks. The reserve's ancient woodlands have a long history of management and would have provided local people with a valuable source of timber, wood fuel, forage for pigs (known as pannage) and grazing for livestock. Coppicing was particularly important, and as you walk through the reserve look for old banks and ditches that mark the boundary of coppice enclosures. Coppicing is the method of cutting trees such as hazel or oak to ground level on a regular cycle. This produces fast-growing shoots for fodder, firewood and making charcoal.

Hatchet Green is surrounded by characterful thatched cottages and is part of Hale, a scattered Forest community. The earliest cottages were built using cob in the late 18th century and are still traditionally thatched in the simple long straw style without the elaborately patterned block ridges common since the 1960s. The green itself is used by the local primary school and is also the local cricket pitch. It's also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its rare plants and wildlife.

The Miz Maze is a unique and fascinating attraction located in the heart of the English countryside. The maze invites visitors of all ages to have fun and explore the intricate network of hedges and try to find their way out.

Bokerley Dyke may have originated in the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age and formed a political and cultural boundary. It was cut through by a Roman Road (Ackling Dyke running between Old Sarum and Badbury Rings) in the 1st century.

3.5 mile long (prehistoric) boundary ditch

Nice hill climb with views across Cranborne Chase. Decent is a great fun as long as there’s no crosswinds!