St Catherine’s Hill, East Dorset
Alfie and Georgie enjoying their stroll up the hill
A lovely walk around the hill - taking in the views of the valley from the ridge - overlooking the Isle of Wight to one side and the Purbecks the other .
Please do be aware of the heathland as a sensitive site - home to species such as Nightjar and Dartford Warbler (protected species) who will nest on the ground on the heather in the heath. And protected reptile species, sand lizard and smooth snake. Keep to the paths.
Today we walked half of the hill and the dogs love exploring along the pathways. There are many dog walkers who use the hill and it’s a very sociable walk surrounded by beautiful unspoilt nature and ancient trees.
Length of walk: You can walk for as long you like - the complete tour of the hill will take about an hour or longer
Closest food/drink stop: The Bunker - lovely dog friendly cafe/restaurant - some outside seating . Stop for refreshments after your walk .
Parking details: Park in Marlow Drive or in the car park and walk up to the hill entrance . It’s difficult to get lost but Google maps works well if you do go ‘off piste’ . You can circumnavigate the hill by starting left or right and enjoy exploring. You could also head straight up the hill to the water towers .
The autumn is beautiful and the fungi is worth searching for ( but not touching! ) Head to the top of the hill and across to the ridge for stunning views across the valley .
TIPS:
“There is a gun range on the hill which has a safety area around it and red flags. But the noise may scare noise sensitive dogs if the club is using it. ”
“In the Summer months the shade on the walk at the bottom of the hill is such a sanctuary for our dogs”
Bailey getting wet in the pond
Love, Debbie Brown and her Tibetan Terriers Alfie and Georgie Members of Dog Friendly Dorset Facebook Group and find them on insta: @mralfiebrown
Join in on our monthly breed and all-breeds play dates and walks: www.dorsetdogs.com/play-dates
Join us on Facebook and Instagram
To add anything please email hello@dorsetdogs.com subject: Dorset Walks
Postcode: BH23 2RR
Free car park: Google The Bunker Cafe for the car park or park in Marlow Drive
Food/drink stop:
The Bunker Cafe - lovely dog friendly cafe/restaurant
Wheelchair access? Not suitable for wheelchairs - the terrain can be very bumpy especially on the ridge .
Tesla loves the hill in all seasons Insta: @ess_fur_baby
Merlin and pals treated to some doggie sausage portions at The Bunker Cafe after getting muddy on the hill. There’s Alfie !
Our Dog Friendly Dorset group Terriers play date on the Hill
Lovely image by Hannah Bullen and pup