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Hosted By:

Chris Pole

Walk Description:

Starting from The willett Arms the walk goes across the road and down a lane towards Corfe Mullen.

From here into woodland then down to a short stretch of the river before crossing the main road after a

brief road section.

Heading towards Canford Magna village we pass a 19th century turnstile next to the Victorian gate

house and then shortly after arrive at The Lady Wimborne bridge.

This took trains over the main driveway to Canford House. Built in 1847. In use until the Beeching cuts 

in the 1960's. The last train was in 1964. Freight still used the line until 1977.

There are some of the most ornate carvings of any railway bridge in the country. It is sadly

deteriorating.

There are several history boards about local Wimborne ladies and their influence on the area.

Around Canford Magna and out to Corfe Mullen are Lady Wimborne cottages.

The rent was 1 shilling per week.

We have the option to climb the steps up the side of the bridge and walk along a shady glade before

climbing down the other side to walk close to the river. (We can discuss what you want to do on the

day.)

To the side of us is a lot of building work and some of the houses have Lady Wimborne style

windows. The route continues close to the river until reaching Canford village itself. 

Here you can see Canford Magna School which is in use as a private school. The church has parts that

are 1,000 years old. Dark local stone was used.

This area is private but there are fetes etc in the summer where you can see the school buildings in all

their glory. It makes an interesting visit.

The village itself was developed by the Guest family of Canford Manor. More about them on the history

boards....

The walk now goes over the river on a pedestrian suspension bridge. This is very substantial but sways

slightly as we cross.

Returning towards Wimborne we are still close to the river and pass under the bypass so this part is

noisy. Arriving at Wimborne there are lovely views of the old bridge, before we cross back over the

river.  Then, it's up hill to the Willett Arms.

Paws need for the road sections. Around 4 miles. Toilets at the pub.

Location Notes:

Park in the far corner. Plenty of space