5.0
(1)
494
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36
runs
Jogging around Colehill offers access to a rich network of green spaces and well-wooded areas within the South East Dorset Green Belt. The region is characterized by common land, local nature reserves like Leigh Common, and Forestry England plantations such as Cannon Hill. This varied terrain provides opportunities for both gentle exercise on flat paths and more challenging hill runs through natural backdrops.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
55
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
52
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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48
runners
11.0km
01:08
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
32
runners
17.2km
01:47
50m
50m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
28
runners
9.47km
01:06
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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If you’re looking for a town that feels like a giant, historical treasure chest, Wimborne MinsterClick to open side panel for more information is the place to be. It’s a quirky mix of ancient legends, beautiful architecture, and a slightly obsession with things being very, very small. The Heart of the Town The town is dominated by the Wimborne Minster Parish OfficeClick to open side panel for more information and the stunning church itself, which has been standing for over 1,300 years. It’s famous for its unique "twinned" towers and some seriously cool interior features. The Chained Library: It’s home to one of the few surviving chained libraries in the world, where the books are literally locked to the shelves to stop medieval students from "borrowing" them forever. The Quarter Jack: Keep an eye on the exterior clock; a colorful figure known as the Quarter Jack strikes the bells every fifteen minutes. He’s been on duty since 1612! The Man in the Wall: Look for the tomb of Anthony Ettrick, who was convinced he’d die in a specific year and had his coffin built into the wall of the church so he wouldn't be buried "in" or "outside" the consecrated ground.
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Lots of fun to cross. Either wheelie your bike across or sit on it and scoot over. Watch your tyres don't fall into the gaps!
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Pedestrian underpass for safely crossing the busy A31 road at Canford Bottom roundabout.
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Lady Wimborne Bridge is a notable historical structure built in 1853 as part of the railway expansion into the area. This Grade II-listed bridge showcases an ornate design that reflects the influence of landowners during the mid-19th century. Although it hasn't hosted trains since 1979 it remains an important landmark, now serving as a walking path that connects to the scenic surroundings
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As best as I can tell there is no signage where the road forks The footbridge is supposed to be closed due to a broken floorboard ... somebody has however pulled the council fences away from the bridge allowing access ... Use at your own risk
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1/10th scale model of the town's streets, shops and gardens as they looked in the 1950s, plus cafe. open 7 days a week 10 am til 5 pm. Adult £10.00 Seniors & Students £9.00 Junior (3-17 yrs) £7.00 Under 3 Free Family 2 Adults & 2 Juniors £30.00 Family 1 Adult & 3 Juniors £27.00
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Wimborne Minster is the parish church of Wimborne, Dorset, England. The minster has existed for over 1300 years and is recognised for its unusual chained library (one of only a few surviving chained libraries in the world). The minster is a former monastery and Benedictine nunnery, and King Æthelred of Wessex is buried there. The Chained library is located upstairs, up a very windy stone staircase. No lifts to it. Until it was confiscated during Henry VIII's reign, the old Treasury held the wealth of the minster and numerous artefacts such as (reputed to be) a piece of the true cross, wood from the Manger and cloth from the Shroud. Since 1686 it has housed an important chained library. The chained library was one of the first public libraries in the UK, and it remains the second-largest. Some of the collections of the library include a manuscript written on lambskin in 1343, a book bound for the Court of Henry VIII, an incunabulum printed in 1495 on the works of Saint Anselm, and a Paraphrase of Erasmus printed in 1522 with a title page designed by Holbein. The library is run by volunteers and remains open to the public on week days 10.30-12.30 & 2-4 (closed in winter season). The Bells Since 1911 the west tower at the minster has been home to a ring of ten bells. The original tenor bell was housed in the central tower and was cast in 1385. The central tower was considered too structurally weak to add much more additional weight, so in 1464 the west tower was constructed in order to house five bells. In 1629 the tenor bell was recast. Besides the tenor, the minster at this time was home to the 'Bell of St. Cuthburga', 'The Fyfer Bell', 'The Jesus Bell' and 'The Morrow Mass Bell'; presumably all housed in the west tower. In 2012, the bells were augmented to 12 by Whitechapel Bell Foundry, with an additional semitone bell cast to make a total of 13 bells. Tombs The most important tomb in the church is that of King Ethelred, the brother of Alfred the Great. Ethelred was mortally wounded in a battle at Martin, near Cranborne. The exact location of the tomb however is unknown, though sources and legend indicate that it resides somewhere near the altar.
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Easiest and safest way to get across the river stour. The main road is narrow over the bridge, and heavily congested at times.
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There are over 40 dedicated running routes around Colehill, offering a wide range of options for different abilities and preferences. You'll find everything from easy jogs to more challenging trails.
Colehill is an excellent location for running due to its position within the South East Dorset Green Belt. It features a rich network of green spaces, well-wooded areas, common land like Leigh Common, and plantations such as Cannon Hill. This varied terrain provides opportunities for both gentle exercise on flat paths and more intense hill runs, all within a natural and scenic environment.
Yes, Colehill offers several easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. There are 4 routes specifically categorized as easy, providing gentle paths through pleasant surroundings.
The running routes in Colehill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the natural beauty of the well-wooded areas, and the peaceful environment of places like Leigh Common. The mix of flat paths and opportunities for hill training is also frequently highlighted.
Many of the running routes around Colehill are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Harmont Pond loop from Colehill offers a moderate 6.8-mile (11.0 km) run, and the Leigh Common loop from Colehill is a popular 3.7-mile (6.0 km) option through a local nature reserve.
Many of the natural areas and trails around Colehill, including common lands and wooded areas, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially in nature reserves like Leigh Common, and to check for any specific local signage regarding dog policies, particularly during nesting seasons or near livestock.
Yes, Colehill has several paths suitable for families. The easier, flatter routes found in recreation grounds like Oliver's Park, or sections of the well-wooded areas, can be great for family jogs. For a slightly longer but still manageable option, consider the Wimborne Minster – Wimborne Model Town & Gardens loop from Colehill, which offers local landmarks to see.
Running in Colehill offers a mix of natural and historical scenery. You can expect to pass through well-wooded areas, local nature reserves, and open green spaces. Some routes may take you near the Castleman Trailway, or offer views of landmarks like Wimborne Minster and Chained Library. Further afield, you might encounter historical sites such as Badbury Rings Iron Age hillfort or White Mill Bridge.
Colehill is served by local bus routes, which can provide access to various points within the village and nearby towns. From these points, you can often connect to the network of running trails. For routes starting further afield, such as those near Wimborne Minster, public transport options are also available to reach the starting points.
Parking is generally available at various points around Colehill, especially near local parks, common lands, and village facilities. For routes that venture further, such as those connecting to the Castleman Trailway or near Wimborne Minster, designated car parks are usually available. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
Yes, Colehill and the nearby town of Wimborne Minster offer a selection of cafes and pubs where you can refuel or relax after your run. Many routes, such as the Allendale Centre Café – Wimborne Minster loop from Wimborne Minster, are designed to pass by or near such establishments, providing convenient stops.
Colehill offers pleasant running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though it's best to run in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter runs can be invigorating, especially through the well-wooded areas, but be mindful of potentially muddy or slippery paths after rain.
Absolutely. While many routes are moderate, Colehill's varied terrain, including areas like Cannon Hill (a Forestry England plantation), offers opportunities for more intense training and hill runs. There are 5 routes specifically categorized as difficult, providing greater elevation changes and more demanding surfaces for experienced runners seeking a challenge.


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