Minterne Magna Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
288 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Minterne Magna Loop

The Minterne Magna Loop is a great walking route in the Dorset countryside that will see you climb uphill along one of the UKs most well-known hill figures. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the Cerne Abbas Giant, a 55 m tall chalk hill figure of a nude male, before looping around the surrounding landscape and passing through several charming villages. While this route isn’t overly difficult, it is fairly overgrown in certain areas and might require you to use a GPS.

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Route Description for Minterne Magna Loop

Featuring a few uphill climbs and some rough/overgrown sections of trail, the Minterne Magna Loop is a fun adventure; however, it is not suitable for less-mobile walkers or families with pushcarts. Be sure to wear proper walking boots and clothing to avoid getting bitten by the bugs that reside in the overgrown brush. Additionally, you will likely want to bring a GPS or a good trail map, as the trail can be difficult to follow. Also, remember to exercise caution in areas where livestock are present.

Even though the route is a tad overgrown, this is still an exceptional adventure that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the Dorset countryside and experience views of an iconic historical site. While the date of the famous Cerne Abbas Giant isn’t known for certain, the large chalk hill figure of a naked man wielding a club is thought to have been created in the 17th Century, although recent dating techniques suggest it could have been between 700 CE-1100 CE. Regardless of its origins, you won’t be able to escape the iconic views of this lewd figure while out on the trail.

Setting out from the trailhead in the village of Cerne Abbas, you will make your way east across the River Cerne and pass through a stretch of woodland terrain in order to arrive at the edge of the Cerne Abbas Giant. You will be a little too close here to get the full effect of the 55 m tall hill figure, but worry not, you will have a great opportunity near the end of the trail to take in the full image in all of its glory.

Continuing along the trail, you will make your way to the northeast and climb up the hillside to enjoy some nice views of the surrounding Dorset countryside. Eventually, the trail will turn to the southwest and head back downhill as you make your approach into the charming village of Minterne Magna.

From here, you will continue to the southwest and make your way even further downhill, following the path through forests and across fields as it turns towards the southeast. After a brief jaunt along the A352, you will arrive at a scenic viewpoint where you can take in the full view of the Cerne Abbas Giant from a distance. After experiencing this iconic landmark, you will head further into the village of Cerne Abbas to arrive back at the trailhead where you began the Minterne Magna Loop.

Insider Hints for Minterne Magna Loop

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Getting to the Minterne Magna Loop Trailhead

The trailhead for the Minterne Magna Loop can be found in the village of Cerne Abbas, just opposite the village hall.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Minterne Magna Loop Elevation Graph

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