The best walks and hikes around Crossways

If you're looking for a quintessentially relaxing Dorset scene, Moreton FordClick to open side panel for more information and its accompanying footbridge are about as idyllic as it gets. Located on the River Frome near the village of Moreton, this spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike who want to enjoy the water without necessarily getting their feet wet. The footbridge itself is a long, narrow wooden structure that runs parallel to one of the longest fords in the south of England. It was built to allow pedestrians to cross safely when the river level is high or when vehicles are splashing through the shallow water. A Hub for "Splashy" Fun: The area around the bridge is a local hotspot for families. On a warm day, you'll see children paddling in the shallow, clear water, dogs leaping after sticks, and even horses being ridden through the ford. A Scenic Shortcut: The bridge serves as a key link for several famous walking routes, including the Lawrence of Arabia Trail and the Jubilee Trail. Crossing it leads you directly into the shaded, peaceful tracks of Moreton Plantation. The "Nature Watch" Spot: Because the bridge puts you right over the center of the river, it’s a perfect place to pause and look for minnows in the gravelly shallows or watch the elegant swans that frequently glide by. Photographer's Dream: With the thatched cottages of the village in the background and the light reflecting off the wide, shimmering expanse of the ford, it is widely considered one of the most "Instagrammable" spots in rural Dorset.

If you’re looking for one of the most poignant and peaceful spots in Dorset, St Nicholas’ Church in Moreton is a absolute must. It’s famous for two very different reasons: its incredible "ice-like" windows and its connection to T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia). Here is the lowdown on why this little village church is so unique: The Church of Light St Nicholas isn't your typical dark, moody medieval church. During WWII, a stray German bomb landed in the nearby graveyard, blowing out all the original Victorian stained glass. Instead of replacing it with traditional colored glass, the community eventually commissioned the artist Sir Laurence Whistler. Between 1955 and 1984, he replaced every single window with engraved clear glass. The Effect: When the sun shines through, the church doesn't turn red or blue; it stays brilliantly bright. The engravings—of butterflies, trees, stars, and even local landscapes—look like they are floating in mid-air or etched into frost on the panes. The "Forgiveness" Window: Look for the window with a small Judas tree; it’s a subtle, beautiful nod to the idea of redemption. While the church is a work of art, many people visit specifically to pay respects to T.E. Lawrence. The Connection: Lawrence lived nearby at his tiny cottage, Clouds Hill (which is also worth a visit). He was a local figure who loved speeding through the Dorset lanes on his Brough Superior motorcycle—which, sadly, is how he met his end in a crash just down the road in 1935. The Gravesite: He isn’t buried inside the church, but in the separate cemetery just a short, signposted walk across the road. The Vibe: His grave is surprisingly humble for a man of such global fame. It’s a simple stone slab with a carved effigy of a knight's shield and the words "The Hour is Coming." You’ll often find small tributes left there—sometimes coins, sometimes desert sand, or even sprigs of local heather.

Can be busy but really nice and gravelly track after the bridge. It is not deep but you can sort of take a dip.

Divert off main trail to Morton Estate for coffee break

A fascinating place with a rich history and unique features. Here's a summary of what makes it special: History: * A church has stood on this site since at least 1190. * The current building dates back to 1776 when it was rebuilt, reusing medieval foundations. It's considered a good example of early Gothic Revival architecture. * The church's dedication changed in 1490 from St Magnus Martyr to St Nicholas. * The north aisle was added in 1841. * In 1940, the church suffered significant damage from a German bomb during World War II.

In his final years, Lawrence lived at clouds hill, a small cottage located just a few miles from Moreton. He sought a quieter life in Dorset, away from the intense public attention he received after his wartime exploits. Moreton was a village he frequented for meals and relaxation.

Nice coffee stop with good bike rack. Employs My Ability students - a plus in my book. https://walledgardenmoreton.co.uk/the-dovecote-cafe/

The church was rebuilt in 1776, reusing medieval foundations and is considered a good example of the early Gothic revival. The rebuilding was financed by the Frampton family, who lived in the nearby manor house. The north aisle was added in 1841 and most internal fittings were renewed c1847. In 1940, the church suffered a direct hit from a German bomb, and was largely destroyed. It was rebuilt over the following decade, but the stained glass windows were replaced with plain green glass. It is known for its thirteen windows, engraved by the poet and artist Sir Laurence Whistler.