The key characteristics of the Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase are . . .

134. Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase

The key characteristics of the Dorset Downs and Cranborne Chase are . . .

• A rolling, chalk landscape with dramatic scarps and steep-sided, sheltered valleys.

• Scarp slopes with species-rich grassland, complex combes and valleys, spectacular views, prominent hillforts and other prehistoric features.

• Open, mainly arable, downland on the dip-slope with isolated farmsteads and few trees.

• Very varied valleys with woodlands, hedged fields, flood meadows and villages in flint and thatch.

• Distinctive woodlands and deer parks of Cranborne Chase.

For further details on this character area and for an introduction to the region, please see the PDF documents in the box at the top right hand side of this page.