I was enroute to Portesham for a mini break with Max my dog. It's about midway so ideal for a wee/poo break. It was a really blustery day, just right for blowing out the cobwebs. He was flat out afterwards.

The most amazing views of our beautiful countryside, on this great little walk

Large area of unspoilt countryside, where open chalk downland and mixed woodland combine to create a very attractive setting. Walking around the hilltop trail yields sweeping views for miles around. There's a decent sized roadside parking area. No facilities but the nearby airfield has a café if you're after refreshments. On the Sunday morning I visited, there were some fantastic classic aeroplanes flying overhead, adding interest to an already lovely walk. There are paths down into the valley if you want a more challenging walk with elevation changes, or an easier, level route around the hilltop if you just want to enjoy the views.

We just love this place, if you like a really good hike then this is the place for you, many many footpaths, extraordinarily beautiful views, sheep and cows, fabulous birds of prey, we watched 6 red kites below us as we sat up high, just so beautiful. And for an added treat, Compton Abbas airport is next door so the low flying very interesting small planes fly over as they take off.

An enjoyable walk from the NT car park on the main road to Melbury Hill down to Fontmell Magna and back through the Fontmell Down Nature reserve. Great views on the Blackmore Vale.