Dorchester

The old roman town of Durnovaria is quite an interesting town to ramble around. The first human inhabitants appeared in 4000BC. So it has a rich history. There are 4 walks that explore its history. A Roman town walk, a Thomas Hardy walk, a Town and River walk and A Gallows walk. We did all four. Of interest to us was the Borough Gardens which is one of the finish in the country and contains an ornate Victorian clock and bandstand and has won the prestigious green flag award for the last 4 years (don't know what that is.
The Maumbury rings (constructed as a Neolithic henge over 4500 years ago and made into an amphitheatre by the Romans. All that exists today is a grass amphitheatre.
Fans of Thomas Hardy will no doubt be interested in The Mayor of Casterbridges's House.
Of interest to us was the Tom Roberts plaque. Who was born here and was a acclaimed Australian landscape painter.
The walk along the Mill Stream was a delight. Swans, cygnets,ducks and ducklings in a beautiful setting.
An interesting day.
We finished with a visit to the Old Oak Tea Room. This is where the supporters of the Duke of Monmouth attempt to seize the crown in 1685 were tried and convicted. 74 were executed, 175 were transported to the Caribbean virtually as slaves. The tea and cake were enjoyed as we surveyed the room were they were tried.Read more