Walnut Tree Field

Walnut Tree Field, in Sturminster Marshall, is a field, with a Walnut Tree in it. At least that is how it may appear at first glance.

This site is actually part of an old field system, formerly consisting of two fields, and the outline of the field system can still be seen in places. Many years ago a flood bank was constructed, to help prevent flooding in the village from the River Stour, which runs alongside Walnut Tree Field.

During the construction of the trench and flood bank many interesting archaeological finds were made, dating back to early Neolithic times. The site appears to have been of some importance throughout the course of history, with finds including Neolithic flint tools, late Saxon period pottery fragments, a box of animal bones, and medieval glazed ceramic roof tiles - some of which are now housed in the Dorset County Museum.

Owner: East Dorset District Council

Managed by: East Dorset Countryside Management Service

Site designation:

Scheduled Ancient Monument

Grid reference: ST 949 003

Nearest town: Sturminster Marshall

Size (Ha): 1.2 Ha

Nearest bus stop: Church Street, Wilts and Dorset bus route

Nearest train station: Hamworthy (seven miles)

Habitats: unimproved grassland

Look out for: lovely views of the River Stour, where you might be lucky enough to spot a kingfisher

Parking: No parking at site

Accessibility: Grass surface can get wet underfoot outside of the summer season

Facilities: Dog bins at main entrances to site, benches

How to get there:

From Wimborne, follow the B3082 (Blandford Road) towards Badbury Rings. Just before Badbury Rings, turn left to Sturminster Marshall. Follow the road over the river, past the Red Lion pub, and bear right onto Back Lane. Walnut Tree field is on your right.

From A31, turn right onto the A350 at the roundabout heading towards Spetisbury. Take the first right towards Sturminster Marshall, following Station Road. Cross straight over the roundabout onto High Street, head through the village, turn right onto Church Street, then left onto Back Lane.

Management plan:

The Walnut Tree is estimated to be almost 300 years old, and has been pollarded in order to encourage new growth and prolong the life of the tree. Additional Walnut Trees have been planted to keep the old one company. The fields are cut two or three times a year.

If you would like to find out more about future management plans for Walnut Tree Field, please contact The Rangers at Moors Valley Country Park.