A beautiful walk immersed in rich history; where Iron Age earthworks, Arthurian legend, and Lady Bankes brings centuries of history to life.

Join Gwyn for a magical walk on some ancient land. Sunday August 23rd 2026 at 10:00 AM . We will park at a small car park on the Hardy Way, and perhaps retire to the Anchor Inn at Shapwick.

It’s the perfect chance to walk, chat, and connect with friendly faces.

Whether you want to unwind, connect with nature, explore somewhere new, this hike is all about warmth, good conversation and lovely company. Lace up your shoes and come enjoy the fresh air with us.

I’m sharing a what3words address to help you find the Hardy Way car park:

https://w3w.co/laminated.nozzles.tulip

This walk follows a striking route through one of Dorset's most atmospheric landscapes, where ancient earthworks, enduring legends and estate history sit side by side. At its heart is Badbury Rings, an impressive Iron Age hillfort whose commanding setting has inspired stories for centuries, from tales of King Arthur's victory at Mount Badon to Celtic folklore of a raven-shaped goddess watching over the land.

The walk also reveals the influence of the Kingston Lacy estate and the grand Beech Avenue, planted by William John Bankes adds a sense of scale and drama before the older histories of the Rings unfold.

The story enters the modern era with connections with Lady Bankes and the symbolic keys of Corfe Castle, linking this peaceful countryside to one of Dorset's most famous acts of loyalty and resistance.

Rich in atmosphere and layered with story, this is a walk that brings together Iron Age Britain, Arthurian legend, Roman traces, and the Bankes family in a single compelling journey.

Description supplied by the event organiser.