Image shared for Badbury Rings and The Oaks from Heron Drove, Dorset
Countryside Circular

Badbury Rings and The Oaks from Heron Drove, Dorset

Dorset

Distance
3.4 mi
Est. time
2h
Difficulty
Medium
Put a date on this walk View route
PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

A countryside circuit around the Badbury Rings hillfort, with beech-lined paths, open chalk grassland and the edge of ancient oak woodland. Allow about two hours for the uneven ground, gentle climbs and time to look at the earthworks.

Start in the small Heron Drove public car park off the B3082, opposite the Sturminster Marshall turning. Follow the beech avenue towards Wimborne, then take the public path past Lodge Farm. The farm is a private home. Continue through the squeeze stile and climb towards High Wood. Follow its southern edge, turn north along Heron Drove, and take the signed Sterley Bushes turn beside The Oaks. Return along the hillfort enclosure edge, through the pedestrian gate and larger Badbury Rings car park, then follow the beech avenue back.

Expect grass, gravel, gates and a narrow squeeze stile; wet weather can make the paths muddy. Keep dogs on leads around grazing livestock and traffic. Bring water: there are no toilets at Badbury Rings. Check parking signs on arrival.

Route reference: National Trust, Badbury Rings and The Oaks: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy/walk-at-badbury-rings-and-the-oaks

Walk details

County
Dorset
Walk type
Circular
Category
Countryside
Distance
3.4 mi (5.4 km)
Est. time
2h
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

Use the route details to plan your walk

If the map image does not load, the route description and starting-point details are still on this page.

The interactive map will load when you reach this section.

Where to start

Directions to start

Walking on your own?

Start when you're ready and add the walk to your history. No group date needed.

Walk this route on your own

This walk is waiting for a date

Not ready to pick a date? Follow it and you'll hear when somebody else does.

No commitment. You can follow it now and pick a date later.

Joining a walk

A few things to know before you make plans.

Can I join if no one else is going?

You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.

What if there is no date yet?

Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.

What does the organiser do?

The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.

Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.

Can I walk this route on my own?

Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.

What happens after I join?

Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.

How do I confirm plans with the group?

Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.