This walk was a favourite of Thomas Hardy and which he regularly did with his faithful companion, Wessex the dog. We also know that visitors to Thomas Hardy at Max Gate would often accompany him on this walk, which takes you to the resting place of William Barnes.

The walk is linear, with the destination being St Peters church, Winterbourne Came. We will visit the grave of William Barnes, look inside the church, then head back to Max Gate the same way we came.

There will be poetry and writings shared on the walk which connect Hardy to the landscape and surrounding area.

We will meet at Max Gate at 1.30 and cover just over two miles (3.6km). The walk is approximately 2 hours in duration. There is a steep section near the start of the walk but soon becomes relatively flat.

Please note: This walk does not go inside the grounds of Max Gate. If you want to visit the house please arrive at Max Gate at least an hour prior to the walk departure time to ensure you can enjoy Max Gate and the gardens. An entry fee will apply and National Trust members can visit the house for free (walk participants will be able to use the toilets either at the start or end of the walk).

Well behaved dogs are welcome on the walk but must be kept on a short lead at all times, dogs are allowed in the gardens at Max Gate but are not permitted in the house.

Description supplied by the event organiser.