We use cookies to make the site simpler. By continuing to use this site and closing this message you agree to our use of cookies.Find out more about cookies

Close alert

Coronavirus (COVID-19): updates and advice

Find information for your area Search

Hilfield Hill

This 15 hectare site is a great location to access the wider countryside and enjoy the fabulous views towards the north and west of the county and beyond.

Hilfield Hill is a flat semi natural grassland hilltop with a wooded slope. It is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic whilst enjoying the views. The grassland also has a small area of remnant chalk heath made up of heather and bilberry. The steep scarp slope is a mixed broadleaf woodland which is accessed via a permissive footpath. There is also a sculpture trail in the woods and a brass rubbing trail throughout the site.

The area is well connected to local rights of way including the Wessex Ridgeway trail and the Cerne Valley Way.

Hilfield Hill
Nearest Town Sherborne (10 miles)
Look out for

Western Red Cedar, Sessile Oak, Common Spotted and Pyramidal Orchids, Birdsfoot Trefoil, Buzzards, Roe Deer and Duke of Burgundy butterflies
Habitats Grassland, remnant chalk heath, mixed woodland and forestry plantation
Site designations

Site of Nature Conservation Interest, Local Nature Reserve, Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and South Wessex Downs Environmentally Sensitive Area
Grid reference ST 636 041
Size 15 hectares
Parking On the site (restricted width of 2.2 metres)
Accessibility Permissive Footpaths. No cycling or horse riding
Other activities in area

Wessex Ridgeway trail

Cerne Valley Way
Owner Dorset Council
Managed by Dorset Council (Area Greenspace Management Team - West)
How to get there Located roughly half way along the road between Minterne Magna and Holywell. The A352 is to the east and the A37 to the west.

Senior Countryside Ranger - West Dorset & Coast

Name: Russell Goff
Email: russell.goff@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Full contact details for Senior Countryside Ranger - West Dorset & Coast

Rate this page

Is there anything wrong with this page?

Your feedback

This form is to report content that is wrong, or any issues or feedback you have about the web page.

Contact us if you want to get in touch about a council service instead.

All fields are required.

Leave your email address so that we can provide a response.

This helps us direct your feedback to the appropriate council.

General data protection regulation (GDPR)

We will only use the personal information supplied by you in accordance with GDPR. By giving us this information you are consenting to such use as set out in our privacy notice.