THE SETTING
Horsehill sits in a valley which descends through greensand (a yellowy green sand which can be seen in the woods) and into Bridport Clay. Where the geology changes springs tend to flow. The property extends from the ford in the east a quarter of a mile to the west. The woods above the cottage is also part of the property. The Jubilee Trail goes through the woods is used by various trekkers and dog walkers, who can be seen through windows on the upper floor at the front of the house. The best way into the woods depends on whether you like climbing steep banks or not. If yes then you will find a way staircase cut into the earth almost opposite the house but do be aware it can be very slippery - especially coming down. The other possibility is to go right down to the ford and walk along the farside, jump a stream and then you will see the signpost leading into the woods. The entire woods are available for the use of guests.
The green marker south west of the number 46 indicates Horsehill Cottage
WITHIN 15 mins WALKING DISTANCE
STOKE ABBOTT
The village lies withing a Conservation Area which is in turn within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is mentioned in the Doomsday Book (AD 1086). Above the village is Waddon Hill where there was once a major Roman fort.
The Lion's Head Spring
The focal point of the village where water tumbles out of the hill and people come from far and wide to bottle it.
The Church
A pre-12th Century church with a notable carved font. There are five bells rung each Sunday by local ringers. John Michell, who had a considerable impact on the Earth mysteries movement by writing such books as View Over Atlantis (1969) and Earth Spirit (1975) is a recent addition to the grave yard (2009).
The Pub
The New Inn - a Palmers Pub which serves excellent food and has a lovely garden. Closed on Mondays.
Route 1
Walk over the ford, up the lane (where you drove in) and turn left at the top - it's a 6 minute walk to the pub from there.
Route 2
Walk along the Jubillee Trail in the woods - away from the ford - and cross a wooden bridge across a steam, then another, followed by a very steep path up into Stoke Abbott. Turn left along the lane to find the pub.
LOCAL HILLTOPS
Gerrard's Hill (1/2 a mile away)
Visible from the north window of the master bedroom and easily identified as it is crowned with a clump of beech trees. It is reached by walking up one of the local sunken lanes. There is a trig point at the summit.
Waddon Hill (1 mile away)
A significant Roman fort in it's day, little remains of it now but it is set in some of the most beautiful landscape in England. The land is privately owned and although historically always accessible it has recently been locked by the new owner.
Lewesdon Hill (3 miles away)
An ancient woodland (defined as greater than 400 years old) comprising mainly oak and beech, it has a reputation locally for clearing and clarifying the mind. It is owned by the National Trust.
Pilsden Penn (4 miles away)
An iron age hill fort with a dramatic profile and spectacular panoramic views. National Trust.
Eggardon Hill (5 miles away)
A complex iron age hill fort with great atmosphere. Driving down King's Rd, the way to Powerstock from Eggardun is slightly hair raising as the land falls steeply away on both sides.
Colmer's Hill (6 miles away)
A landmark visible from everywhere in Bridport - a steep conical hill with trees at the top. Accessible from Symondsbury.