周辺の天然記念物・トップ8

Fontmell Down is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a nature reserve located in Dorset, England, within the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is known for its beautiful chalk downland, rich biodiversity, and panoramic views. The down is a steep, sinuous flank of a chalk plateau, offering extensive views across the Blackmore Vale, a landscape featured in the novels of Thomas Hardy. The chalk was formed about 100 million years ago from microscopic plants, and the down's steep-sided dry valleys were created by periglacial meltwater erosion during the last Ice Age. Earthworks visible on the down are much more recent, including those from a golf course that was present in the 1930s. In 1645, the downs were the site of an assembly of 3,000 Dorset "Clubmen," who were local residents protesting against the armies of both sides in the English Civil War.

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.

End of April is the best for bluebells

One of the most beautiful places in the south of England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 and amazing views of Wiltshire and Dorset 🤩

Win Green at 277 m is the highest point on Cranbourne Chase. The tree topped summit also has a Bronze Age hill barrow, topography stone and trig point. Lots of great running loops from here as well as easy parking close by.

Walk here in the spring to find carpets of bluebells under the trees. The woods are great for other wildflowers as well, such as celandines, primroses and the tall spears of great mullein and foxgloves.

Win Green hill at 277m is the highest point on Cranborne Chase. The trig point affords panoramic views apart from the bit blocked by the little clump of trees on the summit. The beech trees are growing on a Bronze Age bowl barrow. It's managed by the National Trust and is often busy because it's close to a car park. Still very nice though!

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.

This is a great 6 mile 2 hour walk running through the glorious Rushmore Estate. Not a road to cross or walk on except those in the estate. Nice for dogs but they need to be kept on a lead for part of the walk due to animals.

3.5 mile long (prehistoric) boundary ditch

Fontmell Down was bought by the National Trust in memory of English novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, to protect the landscape in which his novels of the Blackmore Vale are set. On this short walk you will discover an open expanse of flowery downland, excellent butterfly populations and magnificent views in all directions.

Win Green is the highest point in the Cranborne Chase and affords breathtaking panoramic views over Blackmore Vale and the Salisbury Plain. The views even stretch to the Isle of Wight in clear conditions. The summit is crowned by beech trees atop a Bronze Age bowl barrow which can be seen for miles around.

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