Cerne Abbas circuit

(S/E) The car park near the river is well suited for this walk. Turn left out of the car park towards the hill. Take the path that heads northward, it follows the contours of the hill for a while and then heads uphill. Continue northward taking the second exit to the west.

(1) This takes you downhill slightly then takes a left turn following south west for a short distance. The path then turns left steeply uphill.

(2) You will reach a crossroads, continue straight on. The path will take you through an agricultural field. Continue across the field until you reach a track.

(3) Turn right from where you will start descending from the hill. The path passes through a wooded area and there are pretty views to the left as you descend. Eventually you will reach the walls of the churchyard.

(4) Cross through the churchyard and you will enter the village of Cerne Abbas. Continue along Abbey Street until you reach the junction with Long Street. Turn right onto Long Street before turning right onto Mill Lane.

(5) Follow Mill Lane which runs alongside the River Cerne. Continue until you reach the road, turn left to return to the car park.(S/E)

The path is steep in places so wear suitable footwear.

The walk passes through beautiful meadows - watch out for rare butterflies in summer. Although the path circumnavigates the Cerne Giant, you cannot approach it. The best views of the giant are from the Cerne Giant carpark off the A352.