Melbury Down
Melbury Down is a sweeping expanse of chalk downland in north Dorset, rising above the Blackmore Vale with views that feel almost impossibly wide on a clear day. The short, springy turf hides a wealth of downland wildflowers and butterflies in summer, while the ancient earthworks scattered across the hill speak of thousands of years of human presence. It is gloriously unpretentious countryside at its finest.
- Wide-open chalk downland views
- Rich downland wildflowers and butterflies
- Ancient earthworks and pastoral Dorset
Best for walkers and nature lovers seeking unspoilt Dorset downland.
Things to see at Melbury Down
Tick these off when you visit — open the place in Manorhop to save your progress.
- Chalk grassland ridge
- Big-sky panoramic view
- Butterfly-rich downland slopes
- Ancient field system earthworks