The best running trails around Blandford Forum
4.3
(13)
1,214
runners
43
runs
Jogging routes around Blandford Forum are characterized by a diverse landscape, featuring the tranquil River Stour and its surrounding water meadows, as well as the Milldown Local Nature Reserve with its open meadows and woodlands. The region also includes impressive Iron Age hill forts like Hambledon Hill, offering elevated views. A key feature for runners is the North Dorset Trailway, a traffic-free path built on a dismantled railway line. These varied terrains provide a range of running experiences for different preferences.
Best jogging routes around Blandford Forum
- The most popular jogging route is North Dorset Trailway – Durweston Mill loop from Blandford Forum, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 7 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows a section of the scenic North Dorset Trailway.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Spetisbury Station loop from Blandford Forum, a moderate 7.8 miles (12.5 km) path. This route offers varied terrain, including sections along the River Stour.
- Local runners also love the North Dorset Trailway – Hodway Lane Trail Intersection loop from Blandford Forum, a 7.4 miles (11.9 km) trail leading through the countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Jogging around Blandford Forum is defined by riverside paths, extensive trailways, and historic hill forts. The network offers options for different ability levels, from gentle runs along the Stour to more challenging routes with elevation.
- The routes in Blandford Forum are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from 12 reviews. More than 1200 runners have used komoot to explore Blandford Forum's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
5.0
(1)
101
runners
10.8km
01:07
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
47
runners
12.5km
01:19
100m
100m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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41
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
runners
16.1km
01:42
130m
130m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
32
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The North Dorset Trailway Connection Today, Spetisbury Station is a popular access point for the North Dorset Trailway. Trailhead: The section of the Trailway running from Spetisbury north to Sturminster Newton, largely following the old railway bed, is a well-maintained, traffic-free path for walking, cycling, and riding. Visitor Stop: The former station site makes a perfect place to stop, rest, and picnic while exploring the Trailway, offering fine views over the Stour Valley. It's a wonderful example of local history being preserved and repurposed for community and recreation!
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The Spetisbury Station Project Unlike the bridge at Blandford, which remains a preserved structure, the Spetisbury station site is being actively restored by volunteers. The Project: The Spetisbury Station Project Group was formed in 2012 by dedicated volunteers to clear and preserve the abandoned site. What You Can See: While the original station buildings were demolished shortly after the 1956 closure, the project has cleared the site to reveal the foundations of the station buildings, the booking office, and the signal box. Ambience: The site is now a peaceful, landscaped green space featuring picnic areas, benches, and information boards. Volunteers have added replica signage and restored the platforms to recreate the atmosphere of the former country station. Wildlife Haven: The site is also managed to be a haven for local wildlife, with features like a wildlife pond, bat boxes, and specific flower borders.
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The Railway and Closure Original Line: Spetisbury Station was located on the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway (S&DJR), which connected Bath to Bournemouth. Opening: It originally opened on November 1, 1860, as part of the Dorset Central Railway's line from Wimborne to Blandford. It initially had a single platform. Double Track: Around 1901, the line was doubled through the station, and a second platform and a signal box were added to handle the increased traffic. Downgrade: Like many rural stations seeking to cut costs, it was downgraded to an unstaffed "halt" in 1934. Passenger Closure: The station closed completely to passengers on September 17, 1956, one of the early closures on the S&D line. Line Closure: Although the station itself was closed, the main S&DJR line through the site continued to operate passenger services until the whole route closed in March 1966. Goods traffic ceased in 1969, and the track was lifted in 1970.
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Durweston Mill is a Grade II listed building, that has been converted into a holiday accommodation with two apartments, Coopers and Riverside, overlooking the River Stour. It also features a separate 5-acre private island with glamping and camping facilities, which are open for bookings and offer activities like fishing, wild swimming, and dog walking.
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If you are travelling the Dorset trail way I highly recommend this cafe for a pit stop it’s only just opened and the coffee was amazing 😋 lovely friendly staff and dogs are welcome x
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Blandford Forum?
There are over 40 running routes around Blandford Forum listed on komoot, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging trails to explore.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes in Blandford Forum?
Yes, Blandford Forum offers several easy running routes. The North Dorset Trailway is particularly suitable, offering a smooth, traffic-free surface with gentle gradients. The Stour Meadows also feature areas kept short for recreation, ideal for a gentler run.
What are the best scenic running routes in the area?
For scenic runs, consider routes along the River Stour and its water meadows, where you might spot otters and kingfishers. The Spetisbury Station loop from Blandford Forum offers varied terrain, including sections along the River Stour. The Milldown Local Nature Reserve also provides picturesque open meadows and woodlands.
Are there any circular running routes around Blandford Forum?
Yes, many routes around Blandford Forum are circular. For example, the North Dorset Trailway – Durweston Mill loop from Blandford Forum is a popular circular option. The Rotary Way footpath also offers a short riverside circular route accessible from the Mortain footbridge.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails?
Many trails in the Blandford Forum area are dog-friendly. The Badbury Rings Iron Age hillfort, managed by the National Trust, offers a dog-friendly walk, and the North Dorset Trailway is generally suitable for dogs on a lead. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves.
What kind of terrain or surfacing can I expect on the running routes?
The running routes around Blandford Forum feature a variety of surfaces. The North Dorset Trailway offers a smooth, traffic-free surface, ideal for running. Other routes may include riverside paths, open meadows, and woodland trails, which can be natural earth or gravel. Some areas, like the Milldown Local Nature Reserve, have paved perimeter paths.
Are there any historical sites or natural landmarks to see while running?
Absolutely! You can combine your run with exploring historical and natural landmarks. The area is home to impressive Iron Age hill forts like Hambledon Hill and Badbury Rings, offering sweeping views. The River Stour and its water meadows are also natural features where you can spot wildlife.
Is there parking available near the running trails?
Yes, parking is generally available. For access to the North Dorset Trailway, you can often find parking in Blandford Forum itself or at various points along the trail. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on komoot tour pages or local council websites.
Can I access the running routes using public transport?
Blandford Forum is served by local bus routes, which can provide access to the town center and points near some running trails. The North Dorset Trailway, for instance, passes through Blandford, making it accessible from various points within the town.
What do other runners say about the trails in Blandford Forum?
The running routes in Blandford Forum are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 12 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscape, from tranquil riverside paths to extensive trailways and historic hill forts, offering varied experiences for all abilities.
Are there any running routes suitable for families with children?
Yes, the gentle gradients and traffic-free nature of sections of the North Dorset Trailway make it an excellent choice for families. The Stour Meadows also provide open spaces and a running trail map near its entrance, suitable for family outings.
Are there any routes that include a pub or cafe along the way?
While specific routes with integrated pub stops aren't explicitly detailed, Blandford Forum and the villages along the North Dorset Trailway offer various pubs and cafes. You could plan a run that starts or ends near establishments in Blandford Forum or Sturminster Newton, or consider the Stour Meadows Park – The Whistle Stop Tea Room loop from Blandford Forum for a refreshment stop.
Most popular routes around Blandford Forum
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