The best gravel rides around West Lulworth

If you’re looking for one of the most poignant and peaceful spots in Dorset, St Nicholas’ Church in Moreton is a absolute must. It’s famous for two very different reasons: its incredible "ice-like" windows and its connection to T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). Here is the lowdown on why this little village church is so unique: The Church of Light St Nicholas isn't your typical dark, moody medieval church. During WWII, a stray German bomb landed in the nearby graveyard, blowing out all the original Victorian stained glass. Instead of replacing it with traditional colored glass, the community eventually commissioned the artist Sir Laurence Whistler. Between 1955 and 1984, he replaced every single window with engraved clear glass. The Effect: When the sun shines through, the church doesn't turn red or blue; it stays brilliantly bright. The engravings—of butterflies, trees, stars, and even local landscapes—look like they are floating in mid-air or etched into frost on the panes. The "Forgiveness" Window: Look for the window with a small Judas tree; it’s a subtle, beautiful nod to the idea of redemption. While the church is a work of art, many people visit specifically to pay respects to T.E. Lawrence. The Connection: Lawrence lived nearby at his tiny cottage, Clouds Hill (which is also worth a visit). He was a local figure who loved speeding through the Dorset lanes on his Brough Superior motorcycle—which, sadly, is how he met his end in a crash just down the road in 1935. The Gravesite: He isn’t buried inside the church, but in the separate cemetery just a short, signposted walk across the road. The Vibe: His grave is surprisingly humble for a man of such global fame. It’s a simple stone slab with a carved effigy of a knight's shield and the words "The Hour is Coming." You’ll often find small tributes left there—sometimes coins, sometimes desert sand, or even sprigs of local heather.

The North Dorset Trailway Connection Today, Spetisbury Station is a popular access point for the North Dorset Trailway. Trailhead: The section of the Trailway running from Spetisbury north to Sturminster Newton, largely following the old railway bed, is a well-maintained, traffic-free path for walking, cycling, and riding. Visitor Stop: The former station site makes a perfect place to stop, rest, and picnic while exploring the Trailway, offering fine views over the Stour Valley. It's a wonderful example of local history being preserved and repurposed for community and recreation!

The Spetisbury Station Project Unlike the bridge at Blandford, which remains a preserved structure, the Spetisbury station site is being actively restored by volunteers. The Project: The Spetisbury Station Project Group was formed in 2012 by dedicated volunteers to clear and preserve the abandoned site. What You Can See: While the original station buildings were demolished shortly after the 1956 closure, the project has cleared the site to reveal the foundations of the station buildings, the booking office, and the signal box. Ambience: The site is now a peaceful, landscaped green space featuring picnic areas, benches, and information boards. Volunteers have added replica signage and restored the platforms to recreate the atmosphere of the former country station. Wildlife Haven: The site is also managed to be a haven for local wildlife, with features like a wildlife pond, bat boxes, and specific flower borders.

The Railway and Closure Original Line: Spetisbury Station was located on the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway (S&DJR), which connected Bath to Bournemouth. Opening: It originally opened on November 1, 1860, as part of the Dorset Central Railway's line from Wimborne to Blandford. It initially had a single platform. Double Track: Around 1901, the line was doubled through the station, and a second platform and a signal box were added to handle the increased traffic. Downgrade: Like many rural stations seeking to cut costs, it was downgraded to an unstaffed "halt" in 1934. Passenger Closure: The station closed completely to passengers on September 17, 1956, one of the early closures on the S&D line. Line Closure: Although the station itself was closed, the main S&DJR line through the site continued to operate passenger services until the whole route closed in March 1966. Goods traffic ceased in 1969, and the track was lifted in 1970.

Fairly long road section through heathland

Divert off main trail to Morton Estate for coffee break

A fascinating place with a rich history and unique features. Here's a summary of what makes it special: History: * A church has stood on this site since at least 1190. * The current building dates back to 1776 when it was rebuilt, reusing medieval foundations. It's considered a good example of early Gothic Revival architecture. * The church's dedication changed in 1490 from St Magnus Martyr to St Nicholas. * The north aisle was added in 1841. * In 1940, the church suffered significant damage from a German bomb during World War II.

Nice stop off point