Lewesdon Hill and Pilsdon Pen circuit — National Trust

This 6-mile (10 km) hike takes in two of Dorset’s hillforts which are, handily, neighbours. The two are quite different, with Pilsdon Pen being largely exposed and Lewesdon Hill being largely forested. From both, you can enjoy outstanding views in clear weather.

1. Begin at the Lob Gate car park immediately south of Pilsdon Pen (it looks more like a large lay-by) and hike up to the top of Pilsdon Pen via the footpath.
2. When you’ve finished admiring the views, hike north east off the back of the hillfort across a couple of fields to reach Specket Lane.
3. Cross straight over the lane and follow the footpath across the fields to reach Grange Lane and the outskirts of Broadwindsor village.
4. Head into the village to admire its historic buildings and walk south to take a right-hand footpath.
5. When you reach the end, take the south-going footpath to reach Lewesdon Hill.
6. After hiking over the eastern end of Lewesdon Hill, hike southwards on a bridleway before doing a dog-leg right then left.
7. When you reach a lane, take the footpath heading west; it’s part of the Jubilee Trail. Follow it to reach Yard Lane before turning right and follow it all the way north to the car park.