The Cerne Abbas Giant is a large, ancient figure depicting a naked man holding a club, and it's often associated with various myths and fertility rituals.

The origin and purpose of the Cerne Abbas Giant remain a subject of debate among historians and archaeologists. Some believe it might have had ceremonial or religious significance, while others think it could have been a more recent creation, possibly as a parody or political statement. The figure is well-known for its prominent, well-defined outline and its position on the landscape, making it a popular tourist attraction.

Dan Hobson

May 7, 2020

Hiking

Cerne Giant is the largest and best-known chalk hill figure in Britain. Standing at 180 feet (55 m) tall, the ancient naked figure is carved into a hillside above Cerne Abbas village. Whilst the origin and identity of the man remains a mystery, local folklore has long held it to be a fertility aid. The site is in the care of the National Trust. For more information, visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/cerne-giant.

Charlie Cosh

November 27, 2022

Hiking

The car park on the outskirts of Cerne Abbas appears to provide the best views of the giant.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Cerne Abbas Giant

4.7

(45)

187

hikers

#1.

Minterne Magna and the Cerne Giant loop

11.0km

03:02

190m

This moderate 6.8 miles (11.0 km) hike, taking around 3 hours and 1 minute, offers diverse terrain from woodland paths to chalk hills. You'll gain 619 feet (189 metres) as…

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

4.4

(15)

hikers

#2.

Cerne Abbas Giant — National Trust North and West Dorset

4.34km

01:16

120m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

4.9

(7)

hikers

#3.

Cerne Abbas Giant – Cerne Abbas Giant loop from Cerne Abbas

6.80km

01:55

140m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 160 m

Weather

Tuesday 5 May

14°C

8°C

36 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See nearby routes

Take Me There

Location: Cerne Abbas, West Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

River Cerne and Cerne Abbas Giant

Maiden Castle Hillfort

Church of St Nicholas, Sydling St Nicholas

Folke Country Lanes

Pearl's Café and Pavilion on the Great Field

St. Peter and St. Paul Church and Churchyard, Cattistock

Gravel Path and Bridge Over Stream, Dorset National Landscape

View of Sydling Valley from Wessex Ridgeway

View of the Cerne Valley

Riverside Benches in Charminster

Gravel Track on Wether Hill with Views Towards Cerne Giant

The Smiths Arms

Cerne Abbas Giant

#1.

Minterne Magna and the Cerne Giant loop

#2.

Cerne Abbas Giant — National Trust North and West Dorset

#3.

Cerne Abbas Giant – Cerne Abbas Giant loop from Cerne Abbas

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Sign up or log in to keep exploring this route

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️