We are the North Dorset Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Edward J.
The walk begins at Kingcombe Nature Reserve, Lower Kingcome, and tracks toward Hooke, skirting Toller Whelme , back to Hooke and the Nature Reserve. The name Kingcombe has no royal connections but is recorded in the Doomsday book as ‘Chimedecome’ which refers to the plant ‘wall germander’ as this is the valley where it grows. The opening countryside descriptions in Hardy’s ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ appear to be based on the Hooke Valley. It is where Gabriel Oak farmed near the village of ‘Norcombe’, most likely derived from ‘Westcombe Coppice', though which the walk passes.
The terrain is varied, with paths, tracks and droves with three or four short hilly sections. There are a few minor muddy areas but these are weather dependent.
Packed lunch.
Assistance dogs only.
Booking opens 10.00 am 20/03/2025 and closes at 10.00 am 25/03/2025.
Please meet at the overflow car park at Kingcombe Nature Reserve (Pound Cottage). Space is limited so park compactly.
