Beacon Hill

Hill, Mountain in Dorset

England

Beacon Hill

Crop field towards woodland Credit: JThomas

Beacon Hill is a prominent hill located in the county of Dorset, England. Situated in the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Standing at an elevation of 244 meters (800 feet), it is the highest point in the Cranborne Chase and the second highest hill in Dorset.

The hill is known for its rich history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Bronze Age. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of ancient settlements, burial mounds, and Iron Age hillforts, highlighting its significance as a strategic location in the past.

Today, Beacon Hill is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. The hill is crisscrossed by numerous walking trails, providing opportunities for hikers and nature lovers to explore the area's diverse flora and fauna. The hill's location within the Cranborne Chase also makes it a prime spot for birdwatching, with several species of birds often spotted in the area.

At the summit of Beacon Hill, there is a beacon, which historically served as a signal for raising alarms or conveying messages. This tradition dates back centuries and was used during times of war or to announce important events. Today, the beacon stands as a reminder of the hill's historical significance.

With its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities, Beacon Hill is a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether one seeks a peaceful hike, a glimpse into the area's past, or simply breathtaking views, this hill in Dorset is sure to captivate all who visit.

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Beacon Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.741349/-2.3698833 or Grid Reference SY7393. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Crop field towards woodland

JThomas

Path through Puddletown Forest

This path is not far from "Hardy's Cottage", in which Thomas Hardy was born and spent his early life. It is quite possible that he walked along his path when visiting the first love of his life, his cousin Tryphena Sparks who lived in Puddletown.

John Welford

Protected lay-by and farm bridge over A35

On the westbound carriageway approaching the Troy Town interchange

David Smith

Hardy's Cottage

Thomas Hardy was born and brought up in this very rural cottage near Higher Bockhampton. He also wrote several of his early novels here including the much loved Far from the Madding Crowd. It is now a National Trust property.

Stephen McKay

Hardy's Cottage

Birthplace of poet and author Thomas Hardy.

John H Darch

Thomas Hardy's Cottage

Thomas Hardy's birthplace, now a National Trust Property

Richard Croft

Puddletown First School

Puddletown C of E First School

Alan Hughes

Building on corner, Puddletown

Grade II listed, early 19th century.

Robin Webster

Building on large lay-by, Puddletown

Shut up.

Robin Webster

Row of cottages, High Street, Puddletown

Dated 1964, grade II listed buildings.

Robin Webster

Parking area on the A35, Puddletown

David Howard

Verge by the A35, Puddletown

David Howard

Parking area on the A35, Puddletown

David Howard

Towards Thomas Hardy's Cottage

From the National Trust's Visitor Centre, behind the hedge on the right here, you are directed to the cottage along a pleasant woodland walk with a view down onto the cottage through the trees just before you get there. All very nice, and part of the experience. But for everyday purposes you can get to the cottage along here.

Des Blenkinsopp

Thomas Hardy's Cottage

Nothing much to add to all the other pictures here, except that you can see that the thatch is looking in rather poor repair. Apparently there is rare moss growing on the roof (close to, you can see little plastic tags all over the thatch marking the stuff) and this is causing a bit of a problem for the restoration plan.

Des Blenkinsopp