Bride Valley

Located mid-way between Dorchester and Bridport and flanked by chalk escarpments the Bride valley runs in an east to west direction. The pictures in this gallery follow a circular walk around the valley. Starting at the top of the chalk escarpment to the north of Long Bredy (SY 571 905) the walk follows the Macmillan Way eastwards along the top of the escarpment, past wind-sculpted trees and numerous tumuli and barrows – dropping down into the head of the valley at Little Bredy (SY 588 891). The route then turns westwards, down the valley, passing Kingston Russel House (SY 573 895) before returning into Long Bredy.

The pictures in this gallery were taken in January, daylight is short (sunrise at 8:00 am, sunset at 16:30 pm) the low sun casting long shadows. Although the temperature is about 6°C a stiff breeze across the escarpment top makes warm, wind-proof clothing essential.