Cerne Abbas Giant — National Trust North and West Dorset
Cerne Abbas Giant — National Trust North and West Dorset
4.4
(16)
97
hikers
Cerne Abbas Giant — National Trust North and West Dorset
01:16
4.34km
120m
Hiking
This fantastic 3-mile (4.8 km) walk takes you on a Tour of one of the country’s most iconic chalk hill figures set into Dorset’s gorgeous countryside. You see the Cerne Abbas giant as well as some of the village’s oldest spots. The starting point is the car park immediately above the village, which itself has fantastic views of the giant.
1: After admiring the giant from the viewpoint, head south along the lane and take the first left, along Kettle Bridge Lane.
2: The lane turns into a track which splits. Take the right-hand split as you’ll come back to this point later along the left-hand split.
3: Follow a footpath around the eastern flank of the hill and take a bridleway to the north east, which ascends gradually.
4: When you’re close to the top, take the left-hand bridleway a short distance and then take another left-hand turn to walk along the otherside of the hill.
5: Follow the footpath gently down the hill back towards the giant until you reach his feet.
6: Continue down until you reach the split and go straight onwards, to reach the old abbey.
7: Head north along the lane from the abbey to return to the track or, if the Abbey grounds are closed, cross the river and take the trail on the other side to reach the track and retrace your steps to the car park.
by National Trust North and West Dorset
Last updated: July 22, 2024
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
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Waypoints
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0 m
Cerne Abbas Giant
Highlight • Monument
Measuring at 55 metres (180 ft) high, the origin of the figure of a man wielding a club on Trendle Hill is unknown.
The chalk figure is often thought to be ancient, yet there is no evidence for its existence prior to drawings found from the early 1700s.
It is made from a series of narrow, small trenches filled with chalk rubble, and is maintained by the National Trust.
Tip by
3.31 km
Cerne Abbas Giant
Highlight • Natural Monument
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.
Tip by
3.71 km
Abbot's Porch, Cerne Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
Throughout its history, Cerne Abbey played a vital role in the local community and the region as a whole. It served not only as a religious centre but also as a place of education, charity, and culture.
An honesty box, located at the entrance, asks for £2.50 donation to help towards the upkeep of the site.
Tip by
3.79 km
Abbey House, Cerne Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
4.34 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.36 km
1.29 km
587 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.57 km
1.13 km
318 m
314 m
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Elevation
Highest point (230 m)
Lowest point (120 m)
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Weather
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Thursday 16 July
28°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Comments
December 21, 2021
This fantastic 3-mile (4.8 km) walk takes you on a Tour of one of the country’s most iconic chalk hill figures set into Dorset’s gorgeous countryside. You see the Cerne Abbas giant as well as some of the village’s oldest spots. The starting point is the car park immediately above the village, which itself
March 5, 2023
Is this suitable for dogs as it's National Trust?
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