Bredwardine, Arthur's Stone and Dorstone

This is another walk out of the 4th edition Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Pathfinder Guide. I originally undertook the walk in August, but have found myself distracted by other interests of late, hence why it is now December and I am just writing up the blog now! Route details here.

The walk starts at Bredwardine Church, not a stone's throw from the River Wye, where there is ample parking in the laybys on the entrance to the church. There are 2 versions of this walk, the longer route is 7.5 miles, the shorter option just the 5 miles. The walk is ideal for dogs as there are no stiles to negotiate, and for the pub connoisseur, there are 2 fine establishments to visit.

Starting in front of and facing the church, the walk heads off along a bridleway to the right, away from the Wye Valley Walk. The bridleway is followed for approximately a mile through woodland and passes the Motte and Bailey earthworks of Bredwardine Castle.

 The bridleway soon emerges onto the B4352, where the route heads left along the road for about 200m until it takes a right turn along a track at Bodcott Farm. The track continues uphill, passing farm buildings to a junction of 3 gates. I could tell you all to make a choice 'Indiana Jones' style, but I'm not that mean. Take the left hand gate and continue very much uphill along a sunken track. In the sunny weather this provides welcome shade, although the terrain is very loose and resembles a creek bed. In the wet weather I imagine it is more a stream. The track continues for approximately 1km and emerges onto a tarmac lane. From here there are stunning views across the Wye Valley, for which time should be made to enjoy.

Turning left along the tarmac lane (and again uphill), then right at a junction along Arthur Stone Lane, the going becomes easier and the views more dramatic as progress is made along the ridge. To the right, the Wye Valley, to the left, the Golden Valley, and beyond that, the Black Mountains. Other than the views afforded, the road is uninteresting, but do watch out for traffic heading upto Arthur's Stone.

Continuing along the lane, you soon reach Arthur's Stone. Despite it's name, it has nothing to do with the legend of King Arthur, but is an impressive neolithic stone burial chamber dating from 2000 to 3000BC.

Now, for a moan!! One of my absolute annoyances when walking, is having to walk over the same ground twice (linear walks, where you head out and back along the same route, being an example). At this point of this particular route you have 2 options. Continue along the lane and continue following it back to Bredwardine, for a short and cheeky. Or, continue along the long route and on to the village of Dorstone. I did this, which grated on me all the way down the hill and all the way back up the same hill.

That out the way, the visit to Dorstone was rather pleasant and does afford another pub to stop at. Heading down hill from Arthur's Stone, the route criss crosses a field edge all the way down, passing a private pond, complete with fishing dock and caravan, to reach a farmhouse. Continue down the farmhouse drive to the road, turning left then immediately right, downhill some more. Take the first left turn, which is pretty much straight on, along a lane, then taking the next right passed a row of quaint little cottages. Further along this leads into the village green of Dorstone, where you will find The Pandy Inn. I didn't stop on this occasion, but it was busy, which is always a good sign.

Turning right, shortly after the Village Green has come into view, you are taken along another lane to Dorstone Church (the lane is clearly signposted, just in case). The church is grander, yet newer than Bredwardine Church, but still a peaceful enough place for a spot of contemplation.

Continue through the Church to meet the road and turn right. This will take you back to the farmhouse and the start of the climb back to Arthur's Stone. While you retrace your steps following this route, there are other options should you wish an alternative way back to Bredwardine.

Upon reaching Arthur's Stone, again, turn left along the lane and continue to follow this all the way winding downhill to Bredwardine. There are various bridleways and footpaths that criss-cross the side of the hill should you wish and adventurous and more wild way back to Bredwardine, but the lane does provide solid footing and ease of navigation.

Upon reaching Bredwardine again, there is another pub to visit, The Red Lion (again, I didn't pop in, but it was also busy) is easy to find and doubles as a hotel.

So there you go, great views, ancient monument, 2 churches, retracing your own steps and 2 pubs! What more could you ask for?