Fordington Bottom

Valley in Dorset

England

Fordington Bottom

Old Milestone by the A37, Charminster Metal plate attached to stone post by the A37, in parish of Charminster (West Dorset District), 250m West of junction from A37 into Charminster, by the road, on North-east side of road. Dorset 4 (iron plated), erected by the Maiden Newton Turnpike Trust in the 19th century. 

Inscription reads:-
2
DORCHESTER
BY THE NEW ROAD
MAIDEN
NEWTON
6 
Carved benchmark left side of front face half way up.

Milestone Society National ID: DO_MNDO06
Old Milestone by the A37, Charminster Credit: Colin Payne

Fordington Bottom is a picturesque valley located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated just south of the town of Dorchester, this idyllic landscape is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. The valley is named after the nearby village of Fordington, which has a rich history dating back to the Roman era.

The valley is characterized by its rolling hills, lush meadows, and meandering river. It is surrounded by gentle slopes covered in verdant vegetation, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors. Fordington Bottom is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The valley's river, known as the River Frome, flows through the heart of Fordington Bottom, adding to the scenic charm of the area. The river attracts a variety of wildlife, including ducks, swans, and herons, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The riverbanks offer pleasant spots for picnics and leisurely walks, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the valley.

In addition to its natural splendor, Fordington Bottom is also home to several historical landmarks. The nearby village of Fordington boasts an ancient church, St. George's Church, which dates back to the 13th century. The church, with its impressive architecture and rich history, serves as a testament to the area's long-standing heritage.

Overall, Fordington Bottom is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with historical significance. Its picturesque landscapes, tranquil river, and historic landmarks make it a must-visit location for those seeking a glimpse into the enchanting beauty of Dorset.

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Fordington Bottom Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.718005/-2.4716743 or Grid Reference SY6691. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Old Milestone by the A37, Charminster Metal plate attached to stone post by the A37, in parish of Charminster (West Dorset District), 250m West of junction from A37 into Charminster, by the road, on North-east side of road. Dorset 4 (iron plated), erected by the Maiden Newton Turnpike Trust in the 19th century. 

Inscription reads:-
2
DORCHESTER
BY THE NEW ROAD
MAIDEN
NEWTON
6 
Carved benchmark left side of front face half way up.

Milestone Society National ID: DO_MNDO06
Old Milestone by the A37, Charminster
Metal plate attached to stone post by the A37, in parish of Charminster (West Dorset District), 250m West of junction from A37 into Charminster, by the road, on North-east side of road. Dorset 4 (iron plated), erected by the Maiden Newton Turnpike Trust in the 19th century. Inscription reads:- 2 DORCHESTER BY THE NEW ROAD MAIDEN NEWTON 6 Carved benchmark left side of front face half way up. Milestone Society National ID: DO_MNDO06
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset Over a period of 800 years since the 11th-century, this church has been built, demolished, rebuilt, extended and restored many times, the last restoration being between 1895 and 1897. Due to extensive flooding in 2016, the Victorian wooden block flooring was replaced with Somerset blue flag stones.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
Over a period of 800 years since the 11th-century, this church has been built, demolished, rebuilt, extended and restored many times, the last restoration being between 1895 and 1897. Due to extensive flooding in 2016, the Victorian wooden block flooring was replaced with Somerset blue flag stones.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset Over a period of 800 years since the 11th-century, this church has been built, demolished, rebuilt, extended and restored many times, the last restoration being between 1895 and 1897. Due to extensive flooding in 2016, the Victorian wooden block flooring was replaced with Somerset blue flag stones.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
Over a period of 800 years since the 11th-century, this church has been built, demolished, rebuilt, extended and restored many times, the last restoration being between 1895 and 1897. Due to extensive flooding in 2016, the Victorian wooden block flooring was replaced with Somerset blue flag stones.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset The Nave. Looking at the chancel arch, one can see original 11th-century, to either side and extending to form a link with each first arch leading into the nave. The arch itself is 12th-century and is bigger than the original.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
The Nave. Looking at the chancel arch, one can see original 11th-century, to either side and extending to form a link with each first arch leading into the nave. The arch itself is 12th-century and is bigger than the original.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset The East window of the South chapel. Dedicated to The Glory of God, in 1912 it was given to the Church in memory of the Pavey family.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
The East window of the South chapel. Dedicated to The Glory of God, in 1912 it was given to the Church in memory of the Pavey family.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset A monument to Grace, the daughter of Thomas Trenchard and wife of William Pole. She died in 1638.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
A monument to Grace, the daughter of Thomas Trenchard and wife of William Pole. She died in 1638.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset Standing beneath the tower, the font is surrounded by bell ringers at the appropriate times. Of 12th-century origin, the font was altered in shape sometime during the 15th-century.
St Mary the Virgin, Charminster, Dorset
Standing beneath the tower, the font is surrounded by bell ringers at the appropriate times. Of 12th-century origin, the font was altered in shape sometime during the 15th-century.
Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury Houses on the west side of the crescent.
Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury
Houses on the west side of the crescent.
Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury Looking the other way from <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7629335">SY6790 : Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury</a>, showing the junction with Challacombe Street.
Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury
Looking the other way from SY6790 : Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury, showing the junction with Challacombe Street.
Challacombe Street, Poundbury From the green open space seen on the left of <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7632875">SY6790 : Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury</a>, across the junction with Woodlands Crescent.
Challacombe Street, Poundbury
From the green open space seen on the left of SY6790 : Woodlands Crescent, Poundbury, across the junction with Woodlands Crescent.
By the Butter Cross, Poundbury Part of the Butter Cross <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6591829">SY6790 : Butter Cross, Poundbury</a> is glimpsed on the left. The road leading away in the centre is Bridport Road.
By the Butter Cross, Poundbury
Part of the Butter Cross SY6790 : Butter Cross, Poundbury is glimpsed on the left. The road leading away in the centre is Bridport Road.
Shops, Poundbury Landscaping, beauty therapy, gifts are available in the shops here, set in buildings with canopied balconies.
Shops, Poundbury
Landscaping, beauty therapy, gifts are available in the shops here, set in buildings with canopied balconies.
Southern edge of Poundbury A ramp and steps lead down to the B3150 Middle Farm Way.
Southern edge of Poundbury
A ramp and steps lead down to the B3150 Middle Farm Way.
Obelisk, Poundbury The obelisk, "crafted by students of The Prince’s Foundation" <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://poundbury.co.uk/new-ten-metre-high-stone-obelisk-erected-in-poundbury/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://poundbury.co.uk/new-ten-metre-high-stone-obelisk-erected-in-poundbury/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> was "installed at the bastion wall at the bottom of Wadebridge Lane, overlooking Middle Farm Way"  in November 2019 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a30360528/prince-charles-poundbury-obelisk-installation-photos/" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a30360528/prince-charles-poundbury-obelisk-installation-photos/">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> , with Prince Charles present. <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7633911">SY6790 : Southern edge of Poundbury</a> was taken from the top of the grey steps on the left.
Obelisk, Poundbury
The obelisk, "crafted by students of The Prince’s Foundation" LinkExternal link was "installed at the bastion wall at the bottom of Wadebridge Lane, overlooking Middle Farm Way" in November 2019 LinkExternal link , with Prince Charles present. SY6790 : Southern edge of Poundbury was taken from the top of the grey steps on the left.
Middle Farm Way, Poundbury Looking right from <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7634600">SY6790 : Obelisk, Poundbury</a> along the B3150 as it skirts the southern edge of Poundbury. The buildings on the right of the road are at Parkway Farm Business Park. In the foreground is footpath S2 51, which descends precipitously and awkwardly to the A35.
Middle Farm Way, Poundbury
Looking right from SY6790 : Obelisk, Poundbury along the B3150 as it skirts the southern edge of Poundbury. The buildings on the right of the road are at Parkway Farm Business Park. In the foreground is footpath S2 51, which descends precipitously and awkwardly to the A35.
Footpath sign on A35 at Poundbury This is probably Dorset's busiest main road, but where a footpath crosses it there is not even any sort of pedestrian refuge. After a steep and very awkward descent on footpath S2 51, it was daunting to face crossing an A road with fast traffic in both directions. The path to the left, S57 6, is supposed to cross Fordington Field in a straightish line to meet the road to Martinstown at an appropriate bend. However, the farmer has failed to provide a route through their crop, requiring a detour along tramlines, This is not developing into a good walk.

The A35 is approaching the Monkey's Jump roundabout.
Footpath sign on A35 at Poundbury
This is probably Dorset's busiest main road, but where a footpath crosses it there is not even any sort of pedestrian refuge. After a steep and very awkward descent on footpath S2 51, it was daunting to face crossing an A road with fast traffic in both directions. The path to the left, S57 6, is supposed to cross Fordington Field in a straightish line to meet the road to Martinstown at an appropriate bend. However, the farmer has failed to provide a route through their crop, requiring a detour along tramlines, This is not developing into a good walk. The A35 is approaching the Monkey's Jump roundabout.
Crop, Fordington Field Footpath S57 6 should be heading towards those trees left of centre, and indeed I see that satellite images, taken presumably after harvesting, show a straight line leading to them. However, no footpath route has been left, forcing those who would be unhappy to damage the crop to follow tramlines which take one on a rather longer route. See <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7634816">SY6690 : Footpath sign on A35 at Poundbury</a>; perhaps this walk will improve as we progress. Spoiler alert: it rained for most of the way.
Crop, Fordington Field
Footpath S57 6 should be heading towards those trees left of centre, and indeed I see that satellite images, taken presumably after harvesting, show a straight line leading to them. However, no footpath route has been left, forcing those who would be unhappy to damage the crop to follow tramlines which take one on a rather longer route. See SY6690 : Footpath sign on A35 at Poundbury; perhaps this walk will improve as we progress. Spoiler alert: it rained for most of the way.
Crop, Fordington Field Heading to meet the road on the right (from Poundbury to Martinstown) by the trees, where footpath S57 6 meets it. See <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7634854">SY6690 : Crop, Fordington Field</a>; we shouldn't be here, but no route through the crop along the correct line of the path has been provided, so we've had to walk further than anticipated.
Crop, Fordington Field
Heading to meet the road on the right (from Poundbury to Martinstown) by the trees, where footpath S57 6 meets it. See SY6690 : Crop, Fordington Field; we shouldn't be here, but no route through the crop along the correct line of the path has been provided, so we've had to walk further than anticipated.
Show me another place!

Fordington Bottom is located at Grid Ref: SY6691 (Lat: 50.718005, Lng: -2.4716743)

Unitary Authority: Dorset

Police Authority: Dorset

What 3 Words

///written.stag.poet. Near Charminster, Dorset

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 50.718005,-2.4716743
Material: wood
Power: pole
Source: bing
Lat/Long: 50.7136845/-2.47332
Material: wood
Power: pole
Source: bing
Lat/Long: 50.7199143/-2.4655023
Crossing
Lat/Long: 50.714569/-2.4672157
Crossing
Lat/Long: 50.7149737/-2.4684887
Crossing
Lat/Long: 50.7153358/-2.468632
Brace
Shop: butcher
Website: https://www.braceofbutchers.co.uk/
Lat/Long: 50.7151044/-2.4670666
Monart Spa Poundbury
Shop: massage
Website: https://monartspa.co.uk/
Lat/Long: 50.7157597/-2.4664965
Crossing
Crossing Signals: no
Lat/Long: 50.7150638/-2.4664198
Community Centre
Jubilee Hall
Addr City: Dorchester
Addr Housename: Kings​ ​Point​ ​House
Addr Housenumber: 5
Addr Postcode: DT1 3BW
Addr Street: Queen Mother Square
Lat/Long: 50.7154987/-2.4670174
Crossing
Lat/Long: 50.7156195/-2.4666087
Bus Stop
Queen Mother Square
Bus: yes
Departures Board: realtime
Naptan AtcoCode: 1200DOA90929
Naptan Bearing: W
Naptan CommonName: Queen Mother Square
Naptan Indicator: W-bound
Naptan NaptanCode: dordptwm
Naptan Street: Peverill Avenue West
Naptan Verified: no
Public Transport: platform
Shelter: yes
Lat/Long: 50.7148616/-2.4675565
Bus Stop
Peverell Avenue West
Bus: yes
Departures Board: realtime
Naptan AtcoCode: 1200DOA90930
Naptan Bearing: NE
Naptan CommonName: Peverell Avenue West
Naptan Indicator: NE-bound
Naptan NaptanCode: dordptwp
Naptan Verified: no
Public Transport: platform
Shelter: no
Lat/Long: 50.7136176/-2.4703215
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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