Discover the Water Meadows Magic
As you meander downstream of Frampton, you’ll find the valley floor transformed into a patchwork of water meadows. These low-lying fields, crisscrossed with grassy ditches and bordered by larger channels, are all connected to the river. This ingenious agricultural innovation from the seventeenth century allowed farmers to flood the fields deliberately. The spring-fed river water, with its steady temperature, warmed the soil, encouraging lush grass growth perfect for feeding sheep during the lean months of March and April. Contemporary writers marvelled at the impressively large flocks of sheep enjoying this early, verdant feast.
Arable Fields: Nature’s Fertile Factory!
After feasting on the lush grass of the water meadows, sheep were tucked in for the night on the arable fields higher up the valley sides, cozy in their ‘sheepfolds’ made from split hazel hurdles. Their overnight stay wasn’t just for rest – their dung worked wonders, fertilizing the soil and paving the way for bountiful crops of wheat (perfect for breadmaking) and barley (ideal for brewing beer).
Today, these chalky soils are renowned for producing top-notch malting barley, with many a ton making its way down the valley to the breweries in Dorchester. Cheers to that!
Discover the Untamed Beauty of Downland!
On the steeper slopes, where the land has remained untouched and unfertilized for centuries, you’ll find the enchanting chalk grasslands. These thin, droughty soils are a haven for a wide range of specialist species. Take a stroll through Hog Cliff National Nature Reserve, just east of Maiden Newton, and you’ll see what we mean. Here, light grazing by cattle and sheep keeps the wildflowers blooming and the insects buzzing.
It’s also a butterfly lover’s paradise, home to rare beauties like the Adonis Blue and Marsh Fritillary.
Discover the Wonders of the River Frome!
The River Frome, with a name derived from the Old British ‘ffraw’ meaning fine or brisk, is a chalk stream fed by numerous springs up the valley. Rainwater percolates through the highly permeable chalk rock and is pushed out under pressure, creating this vibrant waterway.
Thanks to its clear, mineral-rich waters, the River Frome is a haven for wildlife. Did you know that England is home to around 85% of the world’s chalk streams?
The flinty gravel bed of the River Frome provides the perfect spawning habitat for salmon and trout, which feast on the abundant invertebrate life, including mayflies, dragonflies, and dainty damselflies. These fascinating creatures spend their larval stage in the water among the gravel or river plants like water crowfoot, before emerging on the reeds and rushes that poke out of the water.
Discover the Zesty Charm of Watercress
Nestled in the heart of the valley, our pristine waters have been put to good use cultivating the zesty delight known as watercress. This peppery powerhouse, a proud member of the cabbage family, adds a delightful kick to salads and soups alike. An early riser in the world of leafy greens, watercress has been spicing up Dorset dishes since the early 1800s. Come taste a bit of history with every bite!
The Cream of the Crop: Dairy Farming in the Valley
In our charming valley, dairy farming is a time-honoured tradition. Picture this: cows leisurely grazing on lush pastures, chewing the cud, and producing the rich milk that becomes your favourite dairy delights. From milk and butter to cream and cheese, these bovine beauties work hard to bring you the best.
Our rich pastures are perfect for crafting the renowned West Country Farmhouse Cheddar. Only milk from Dorset, Devon, Somerset, or Cornwall can earn this prestigious name. Aged for at least nine months, this cheese boasts a nutty, rounded flavor with just the right hint of sharpness.
As you wander the route, you’ll spot charming house names like ‘Dairy Cottage,’ nodding to their historical roots, and pass by the modern dairy marvels of Littlewood Farm. Come savour the creamy goodness and taste the tradition!
The Ingenious Roman Aqueduct: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering
Step back in time and marvel at the Roman ingenuity that brought water from Notton to the heart of Dorchester. This impressive aqueduct, stretching 19km, gently meandered through the landscape, seemingly climbing the valley sides with ease. By the time it reached Dorchester, it delivered water a remarkable 20 meters above the valley’s river.
Imagine the 2nd Legion Army, camped in Dorchester, enjoying the fruits of this engineering feat as the Roman town flourished around them. It’s a testament to the brilliance of ancient engineering and a fascinating piece of history you can explore on your journey.
Discover the Timeless Charm of Dorchester Charter Market
Step into history every Wednesday at the Dorchester Charter Market, a tradition that has been thriving since 1305 when King Edward I granted its charter. From 6:30am to 2pm, Fairfield comes alive with a bustling array of traders offering everything from fresh produce and quality meats to stylish clothing, vibrant plants, and mouth-watering hot food.
Located just a short stroll from the town centre, and right across from the new Brewery Square development, this market is a delightful blend of the old and the new. Come for the history, stay for the treasures, and enjoy a slice of Dorchester’s vibrant community spirit!
Explore Dorchester’s Delightful Markets!
Cornhill Market on South Street is the beating heart of Dorchester, bustling daily from Monday to Saturday. This charming marketplace offers a delightful mix for both locals and visitors. From fresh fruit and veggies to vibrant flowers and quality produce, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll find quirky artisan stalls with clothes, jewellery, and books that change daily, keeping things fresh and exciting!
Dorchester Artisan Market is the new kid on the block, popping up on the fourth Sunday of each month from April to November, 10am to 3pm. This market is a treasure trove of handmade crafts, artisanal foods, street eats, unique gifts, vintage clothing, and stunning artwork. It’s the perfect spot to discover one-of-a-kind items and support local artisans.
Come explore, taste, shop, and savour the vibrant market scene in Dorchester, and enjoy the flavours of the Frome Valley!
A Handy Guide and Map
To help you discover more about the food heritage of the Frome Valley download the Valley to Trail leaflet here, and the map using this link.
Find out more about the Dorset National Landscape and the Dorset Food Trail here.
Discover Dorchester
The County Town of Dorchester offers a fantastic variety of independent and nationally recognised eateries, pubs and great cultural venues, celebrating the exceptional local food and drink available Find out more here.
The Valley to Market Trail is brought to life thanks to the generous support of the Rural England Prosperity Fund, an addendum to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund awarded to Dorset Council by the UK government. This funding has been pivotal in developing and promoting our vibrant visitor economy, both for trade and consumers.
Our goal? To strengthen community ties, enhance infrastructure, and bolster rural economies. So, as you wander through our delightful trail, know that every step is supported by a commitment to making our community thrive.
