Trail information
Not only does Hengistbury Head boast breath-taking views, tranquil scenery and stunning beaches, its history dates back to the Palaeolithic period. Discover how the landscape changed through the ages with hunter-gatherers, the beginning of agriculture, and Iron-age craft.
This trail will walk you through 10,000 years of archaeology, taking you to the sites of our ancestors where archaeological discoveries from Palaeolithic to Late Iron Age help us to imagine the everyday lives of the people that came before us.
Don’t forget to pop into the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre during your visit to find out more about this fascinating site.
Thank you to Judith Dobie for the artwork featured in this trail and the Hengistbury Head team for their knowledge and input.
Route description
This is a self-led walking trail that helps you explore Hengistbury Head.
Some pathways are soft surface or gravel. There are also steps and steep inclines along the route, particularly between the Early Iron Age and Mesolithic sites. A hard surface alternative route is available.
Facilities and rest opportunities
There are public toilets and refreshments at the Visitor Centre and the beach. You will find some opportunities to sit along this trail but not frequent.
Dogs
Hengistbury Head Trail is very dog-friendly with plenty of outdoor space.
Keep yourselves and your dogs on designated paths and away from ponds.
Some routes require dogs to be on a lead due to bird nesting or livestock presence; please observe all signs. Follow the Doggy Do Code.
Leave no trace. Pick up after yourselves and your dogs to protect the landscape and avoid harm to wildlife and livestock. Use the bins provided or take your waste home.
Hengistbury head trail