Magiston Hill

Hill, Mountain in Dorset

England

Magiston Hill

Farmland in the Sydling Valley Looking westwards. — Farmland in the Sydling Valley Credit: Becky Williamson

Magiston Hill is a prominent natural landmark located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated near the village of Broadwindsor, it is part of the larger range of hills known as the Dorset Downs. The hill rises to an impressive height of approximately 270 meters, making it one of the most notable peaks in the region.

The hill is characterized by its gently sloping sides and is primarily covered in lush green grass, creating a picturesque landscape that is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts. From the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the rolling hills, meandering rivers, and charming villages that dot the area.

Magiston Hill is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, with several rare and protected species found within its boundaries. The hill's diverse ecosystem supports a range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Due to its accessibility and scenic beauty, Magiston Hill attracts a steady stream of visitors throughout the year. Hiking trails crisscross the hill, allowing visitors to explore its natural wonders at their own pace. The hill's tranquil and serene atmosphere provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude or a chance to connect with nature.

In conclusion, Magiston Hill in Dorset is a captivating natural landmark that offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether it be for hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply appreciating the beauty of the English countryside, Magiston Hill is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

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Magiston Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.774958/-2.5115466 or Grid Reference SY6497. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Farmland in the Sydling Valley

Looking westwards.

Becky Williamson

Footpath up Magiston Hill

Becky Williamson

Original foundation of Jackman's Cross, Stratton

This is all that is left of the original cross, described in Alfred Pope's book, 'The Old Stone Crosses of Dorset': "On Grimstone Down, which is in the parish of Stratton although part of the ancient manor of Grimstone, to the north of the Crossways leading to Cerne Abbas and Charminster, known as ‘Jackman's Cross, is the socket of a cross of Portland and Ridgway stone two feet two inches square by twelve deep, with a mortise eleven inches by eight inches, into which formerly fitted a cross of wood. The upper hed [sic] of the socket is bevelled round the edge, and on one side is a cup-shaped cavity which might have been for the reception of alms. There is a tradition that a man named Jackman was hanged on this cross early in the eighteenth century for sheep-stealing, but the writer has searched through the Court Rolls which are in his possession as lord of the manor, and date back to 1640, and is unable to find any confirmation of this tradition. In 1645 the manor belonged to the Prebend of Salisbury, and in earlier times to the Abbots of Milton." A new cross has been erected, see SY6495 : Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down. There is an Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark on this foundation, see SY6495 : Rivet on foundation of Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down.

Becky Williamson

Field Barn, off Fry's Lane, near Godmanstone

There is an Ordnance Survey benchmark on this building, see SY6597 : Benchmark on Field Barn, near Godmanstone.

Becky Williamson

Benchmark on Field Barn, near Godmanstone

Ordnance Survey benchmark, described on database at Link

Becky Williamson

Former settlement on Stratton Down

A large settlement on Stratton/Grimstone Down, covering an area of about 100 acres.

Becky Williamson

Tumulus on Grimstone Down

Becky Williamson

Rivet on foundation of Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down

Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark, described on database at Link

Becky Williamson

Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down

This cross replaces the original one, described thus in Alfred Pope's book, 'The Old Stone Crosses of Dorset': "On Grimstone Down, which is in the parish of Stratton although part of the ancient manor of Grimstone, to the north of the Crossways leading to Cerne Abbas and Charminster, known as ‘Jackman’s’ Cross, is the socket of a cross of Portland and Ridgway stone two feet two inches square by twelve deep, with a mortise eleven inches by eight inches, into which formerly fitted a cross of wood. The upper hed [sic] of the socket is bevelled round the edge, and on one side is a cup-shaped cavity which might have been for the reception of alms. There is a tradition that a man named Jackman was hanged on this cross early in the eighteenth century for sheep-stealing, but the writer has searched through the Court Rolls which are in his possession as lord of the manor, and date back to 1640, and is unable to find any confirmation of this tradition. In 1645 the manor belonged to the Prebend of Salisbury, and in earlier times to the Abbots of Milton." For photo of original foundation, see SY6495 : Original foundation of Jackman's Cross, Stratton and for photo of Ordnance Survey rivet benchmark on that foundation, see SY6495 : Rivet on foundation of Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down.

Becky Williamson

Bridleway leading south on Crete Hill

Becky Williamson

Inscription beneath stone bench near Jackman's Cross

The inscription reads: "This Wayside Cross is offered in celebration of the SECOND MILLENNIUM of JESUS CHRIST Our Lord on this ancient path from Abbotsbury to Cerne Abbas. It replaces an early cross of which only the foundation remains and was dedicated at millennium midnight 1999-2000 by the Rt Revd John Kirkham Bishop of Sherborne – The seat commemorates the family of Alfred Pope author of The Old Stone Crosses of Dorset which has cared for this land through six generations.” See also SY6495 : Jackman's Cross, Stratton Down.

Becky Williamson