Walk at White Mill and Shapwick, Kingston Lacy
A moderate walk through the water meadows by the River Stour, short distances on country lanes and along gravel tracks. There are waymarks for Walk 8 on the route.
Starting by an 18th-century mill, the walk goes over rough pasture along an unspoilt stretch of the River Stour with much bird life. It then goes through the picturesque village of Shapwick and returns on lanes to White Mill.
Map
Start:
Car park opposite White Mill; grid ref: ST958007
1
Leave the car park at White Mill and turn right at the signpost for Shapwick and Tarrant Crawford. The permissive path, part of The Stour Valley Way, is clearly marked on the opposite side of the road.
White Mill
White Mill itself is open March-November at weekends and on Bank Holiday Mondays, subject to an admission charge, National Trust members free. Henry Bankes was responsible for having the Mill rebuilt in 1776 and we have conserved the 18th-century wooden machinery. The millstones remained in use right until the end of the 19th century, grinding grain (grist) for both flour and animal feed. The arched bridge here is reputed to be the oldest in Dorset.
2
The riverside walk along the Stour meanders over rough pasture and arable headlands for approximately 2.5 miles (4km). Squeeze stiles at fence lines indicate the route to be taken.
The Stour
Wildfowl and swans frequent the River Stour and fleeting glimpses of kingfishers, egrets and herons add to the walks interest. The otter is re-establishing itself after a two decade absence.
3
Having arrived at St Bartholomew’s Church on the edge of the village of Shapwick, follow the footpath signs to the cross at the centre of the village. The Anchor Inn at Shapwick Cross providing an ideal staging post for refreshments if required.
St Bartholomew’s Church
The Church of St Bartholomew is Norman dating from 12th century with a square tower restored over the centuries. It has a peal of three bells, one dating from 1570.
4
To continue the walk proceed straight up the Shapwick High Street until a junction with Park Lane is encountered on the right, opposite Priory House.
Shapwick Village
Shapwick Parish name derives from the Saxon meaning sheep village. It was the smallest of the four Manors in East Dorset and pre-dates the Norman period. The village centre has an old stone cross, now a memorial to the men of the First and Second World Wars. The area is agriculture and farming, in 1800 the inhabitants were 409 and now 197. Two mills for corn and grain existed in Shapwick.
5
Turn right here and you will almost immediately pass the Higher Dairy part of Crab Farm.
6
Turn right down the bridleway, known as Half Mile Drove, before New Barn Farm. This track leads to the White Mill and Shapwick. Turning left at the bottom, return with care along the road to your start point.
End:
Car park opposite White Mill; grid ref: ST958007
