On a hot and humid August day our band of 13 commenced our walk in Fiddleford with a tour of the stylish 14th century manor house followed by a stroll through the hamlet past the inviting pub.

Climbing up to Piddles Wood to enjoy some refreshing shade we descended through Broad Oak village to emerge on the Stour river at the ancient but still working watermill at Sturminster Newton for a welcome refreshment break.

A short walk along the river led us into Sturminster Newton where we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Sweet Pea Cafe. Meandering through the pretty cottages and Church led us onto the Stour Valley Way.

Following the river with its tempting fishing and swimming spots we emerged at the ancient Fiddleford Watermill to finally enjoy a welcome pint at the Fiddleford Inn.