Railway Ramble: Sherborne (Dorset)
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A walk that can be reached by train from London, Basingstoke, Bristol, Southampton, Salisbury and Exeter and other places and which takes you into peaceful nooks and crannies hidden away on the borders of Dorset and Somerset. Our circular route initially passes Sherborne's pretty town centre and honey coloured Abbey which is well worth a quick peek inside. We will then strike out towards Poyntington Down north of the town to explore hills, valleys and little villages, with a nice pub stop at The Mitre in Sandford Orcas, a quintessential English Inn with a lovely garden. The route back involves a short but sharp gradient up over Ambrose hill.
We will try to time the end of the walk to meet the trains departing around 17:30, but if purchasing timed tickets please note that this cannot be guaranteed.
Image of Sherborne Castle © Chris Downer (cc-by-sa/2.0)
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Cross trainers may suffice in good weather on this route, but boots will be much better on uneven ground
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking Trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans if it is raining. shorts are likely to be best on this walk
Waterproof Over-Trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt
Waterproof Jacket: essential if rain is forecast.
Hat: essential to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglasses: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye
Water: one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch with you for this walk. Also #plenty# of water. It is midsummer and the route is fairly strenuous.