The best traffic-free bike rides around Hilton

3. The "Thomas Hardy" Connection: By the early 1920s, the church was in a state of "picturesque ruin." It had been abandoned since 1896 and was literally being used as a stable for donkeys and pigs by the neighboring farm.Its rescue is one of the most famous stories in British conservation: The Sale of Manuscripts: The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) wanted to save it but lacked funds. They sold a collection of Thomas Hardy’s original manuscripts to raise the money for the restoration.AR Powys: The restoration was led by the famous architect and conservationist A.R. Powys. He was so devoted to the project that he is buried in the churchyard ( the only grave, it is surreal ). 4. Visiting Today Location: It sits in a field next to a manor house in the tiny hamlet of Winterborne Tomson. Ownership: It is now a redundant church cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. It is no longer used for regular Sunday services but remains consecrated and open to the public.Vibe: It is tiny (only 40 feet long) and possesses a profound silence. As the writer Simon Jenkins put it, it is "one of the loveliest in Dorset." Note: If you visit, look for the plaque commemorating A.R. Powys and the "silvered" oak pews—they have a unique, soft texture from centuries of being untouched by modern varnish.

St Andrew’s Church in Winterborne Tomson is a tiny, hauntingly beautiful Norman building that feels like a time capsule. It is widely considered a "gem" of Dorset architecture, famous not just for its age, but for its near-miraculous survival.Here is what makes it so special: 1. Architecture & Design The Rare Norman Apse: It is one of the few churches in England—and the only one in Dorset—to retain its original semi-circular apse (the rounded east end). Built in the early 12th century, its floor plan hasn't changed in over 800 years.The "Upturned Boat" Roof: Inside, the 15th-century wagon roof (or barrel vault) is a masterpiece. The timber ribs actually curve to follow the shape of the apse, making the ceiling look like the inside of an ancient wooden ship. It is decorated with carved Tudor rose bosses. Construction: The walls are a rustic mix of flint, rubble, and stone, giving it the weathered appearance of a farm building. 2. The Interior: A Georgian Treasure While the structure is Norman, the fittings are pure 18th-century Georgian. Archbishop’s Gift: The silver-grey oak box pews, pulpit, and screen were all donated by William Wake, the Archbishop of Canterbury (1716–1737), whose family lived nearby. Unspoiled Atmosphere: Because the church never underwent a "Victorian restoration" (which often stripped away older features), it feels incredibly authentic. The walls are simple limewash, and the floor is made of uneven stone flags.

The Greyhound is a classic 16th-century thatched pub where "local charm" meets "excellent gravy." Expect roaring fires, real ales, and a warm Dorset welcome. It’s the perfect pitstop after getting lost in a cornfield or browsing the phone box library. Friendly, rustic, and very, very British. Cheers!

Really lovely main street. This can comfort you while you climb - if you are going left at the top you will face more climbing. Milton Abbas is one of the earliest examples of a community being moved for aesthetic reasons: it was created in the 1770s when Joseph Damer, the then owner of Milton Abbey, relocated the village of Middleton to a new site (now known as Milton Abbas) to improve the view from his estate. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milton_Abbas

* Athelhampton Chantry: The south transept, known as the Athelhampton Chantry, is a major historic interest. It contains numerous monuments to the Martyn family of nearby Athelhampton House, with tombs dating back to the 13th century. The effigy of Sir William Martyn (d. 1503), who built much of Athelhampton House, is particularly high quality.

* 17th-Century Woodwork: The interior boasts a wealth of 17th-century woodwork, including the pulpit, reading desk, altar rails, font cover, and box pews. The gallery over the west end of the church, dated 1635, is wonderfully carved and bears a Latin inscription: "You come hither, not to be seen, but to listen and to pray."

* Norman Period Elements: The base of the tower, parts of the southwest corner, and possibly the south respond of the chancel arch survive from the original Norman building. * 12th-Century Font: A notable feature is the superb 12th-century font, which has an unusual beaker-like shape and is intricately carved with interwoven acanthus leaves. Its cover is an octagonal pyramid from around 1635.

St Mary the Virgin Church in Puddletown, Dorset, is a historic church with Norman origins, though much of its current structure dates from the 15th century rebuilding. It is considered one of the finest historic churches in Dorset. Key features and historical aspects include: