Saxon Wareham
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Wareham is a small town in Dorset just on the north side of the Purbeck Hills, with origins dating back beyond the Saxon period. This walk starts off at a small car park just by the High Street and heads towards the River Frome. Along this stretch you can see many species of birds including grey herons and kingfishers.
The route passes by the church and joins the Saxon Walls Walk, a path along the tops of the massive Saxon earthworks which surround this part of the town. The earthworks date from the 9th Century and were built to protect the town within.
The route makes its way to Wareham's Saxon Church of St Martin. The spectacular building is Grade 1 Listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Founded on the site of a 7th Century Church, the current building dates from about 1030AD.
The route continues along the Town Walls round to the south-western side of town where a Norman Castle once stood (now completely destroyed) but evidence of the Normans is still present. You will pass an ancient Norman arch built into the current wall along the road which leads you back to the high street.
England - South West England - Dorset - Town or city
Features
Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Church, Flowers, Food Shop, Great Views, Mostly Flat, Pub, Public Transport, River, Wildlife
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