What is an Ancient Trail?
We walk the land, we sleep under the stars, our ponies pack the kit.
Dorset is a stunning county, with two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and 40% of the county designated National Landscape. It is a complex network of rolling fields, ancient woodlands, pine plantations and the tracks and green lanes that connect them, and we get you right in the middle of it, camping wild in ancient woodland. We take the work out of your walk by not only planning a gorgeous route through heathland and pine plantations, but also with the help of our gorgeous furry friends, Bob and Evie, the pack ponies.
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Meander through heathland, woodland & plantation.
Cross sparkling fords, take in distant views.
Visit thatched villages along old smugglers routes.
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As wild camping in England is not legal in most places, we have worked with landowners to secure safe and beautiful places to pitch with the ponies. We are lucky enough to have sole permission to camp in a 100 acre ancient woodland, it's completely untouched all year but for our August camps.​
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Our route is carefully planned, tried and tested to give you the best experience with pack ponies.​
Walk further, camp wilder, breathe...
What to Expect...
Day One
2.00 Meet and do a bit of light paperwork before introducing you to the ponies.
2.30 We pack your kit onto the ponies and you have a practice leading them.
3.00 Head off along the Lawrence of Arabia Trail. The walk is about 7km and takes 3-4 hours, it's beautiful, so we don't rush.
6.30 Arrive at the woodland and unpack the ponies. You chose where to pitch (we'll give you a tent and a hand if needed ;-)
7.00 We cook dinner on the HQ campfire, you join when you're ready.
All you need to do is relax and enjoy the owls and the stars...​​
Day Two
8.00-9.00 Breakfast around HQ campfire.​
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The day is yours to do with as you wish - you can explore the woodland, hike further afield, chill in your own area of the camp or join us at 10.00 for pony care and/or learning to long rein around the woodland trails. ​
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We provide you with a hamper of fresh, local & artisan produce for your lunch, and ingredients for your own campfire feast, marshmallows included!
Day Three
8.00-9.00 Breakfast around HQ campfire.
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We meet at 11.00 to pack your kit back onto the ponies and head back to base.
The walk is shorter - about an hour and a half- at the end of which is the Moreton Ford Crossing! Going in the water with the ponies is completely optional - there is a pedestrian only bridge - as you will get utterly soaked in this thigh deep river!
It is only 5 minutes back to base from there though, so you won't be soggy for long :-)
We send out a beautiful Welcome Pack when we receive your booking. It has the details of what we provide and what you need to bring, but here is a rough guide:
What we provide;
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tent and/or hammock
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fire pit
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fire kit & fuel
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water (at camp)
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plates, bowls & cups
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cutlery & pans
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washing up kit
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teas, coffees & juices
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all meals - a mix of catered and your own campfire cooking experience.
What you bring;
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sleeping bag, roll mat & pillow.
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toiletries & towel for the outdoor shower.
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appropriate shoes (hard topped) and clothing for the weather.
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insect repellant & sun protection.
Your Woodland Camp Menu
Welcome to your first night of camping bliss! We'll take care of dinner by serving up a delicious campfire meal featuring rice and a mild curry, followed by a delightful dessert cooked right on the grill. Feel free to bring your own beverages to enjoy :-)
On both mornings, indulge in hearty chunky bacon rolls or a selection of muesli & cereals, paired with steaming mugs of tea or coffee and refreshing juices.
You'll also receive a hand packed Ploughman's lunch hamper, stocked with local artisan bread, butter, cheese, watercress, apples, and chutneys, plus a DIY campfire meal with pasta, locally foraged wild garlic pesto and your choice of protein.
We’re happy to accommodate veggie, vegan and allergy needs—just let us know when you book!
Facilities
Experience the beauty of wild camping, where we embrace the 'leave no trace' philosophy. Our commitment to nature means minimal impact on the woodland, with no electricity, limited signal, and no running water. We bring in our own water, creating refreshing outdoor forest showers and a unique compost 'loo with a view' for your comfort. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature!
British Weather Contingency ;-)
In the event of a heatwave, we may adjust our arrival and departure times to ensure the ponies are safe from excessive heat. Fortunately, our wooded area provides a shaded haven, allowing us to escape the worst of the sun.
If it rains, don’t forget your waterproofs! We have parachute covers set up over the fire-pits and hammocks, ensuring there's always a dry spot to relax.
"I thought the walk was brilliant. I really like it when someone else is in charge of wayfinding, it frees my mind to enjoy the scenery and leave my phone alone, and I definitely felt that you were both very knowledgeable and professional and knew the area very well. I really liked the historical facts and information about the area, and I also liked the tidbits like 'Around this corner is a very bouncy horse, don't panic!"
H. Young, Birmingham.
Camp dates & prices
Welcome to our ancient woodland, a Site of Special Scientific Interest. We invite you to experience its beauty while respecting our 'camp lightly' pledge.
Please note that we only open for the month of August and spaces are limited to a maximum of 8 people per trip to ensure a peaceful and sustainable visit.
Join us for an unforgettable three-day, two-night adventure! For just £525 per person or £1995 for a group of four, you'll enjoy a fantastic walk, your own secluded spot in a 100 acres of private, historical woodland, campfire meals and unique pony activities, all with kit included.
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Create lasting memories in the great outdoors with your loved ones, book your adventure today :-)
Book your adventure!
Still not sure you want the experience of a lifetime? No worries, contact us on adventure@theancienttrailscompany.co.uk and we'll be happy to answer any questions :-)