Welcome to Vale Trail

Ever wanted to see a badger's sett? Ever wanted to catch a glimpse of wild deer or see the turquoise flash of a kingfisher? Then why not visit Vale Farm?

Set in over 250 acres of stunning North Dorset Countryside, nestled at the foot of the magnificent Hambledon Hill between Shaftesbury and Blandford, the Vale Nature Trail is a series of well thought out walks designed with wildlife and nature in mind.

Whether you just want a fun family day out or whether you are a serious "twitcher" or Nature watcher or photographer, the Vale Trail and its 2 routes are a wonderful way in which to see some of Britain's native birds, mammals, flora and fauna - or just to enjoy some of Dorset's beautiful views and countryside.

15 custom made wildlife and habitat information signs guide you around the route which is between 1½ - 4 hours long (depending on your pace). These signs explain the different types of creatures and plants that live along the way ... from Badgers to Roe Deer, Otters to Buzzards, Tawny owls to a variety of butterflies!

A clearly marked map which corresponds to the signs helps you to find your way through fields and woodland, across spring-fed streams and down to the picnic area set out alongside the small lake. This is also home to Cayuga and Call ducks, Guinea fowl and beautiful black swans. You may even catch a glimpse of "Random", the light Sussex hen, and some of the other varieties of duck that live here.

There is also a fun nature quiz for both children and adults to complete on the way around. Answers can be found by reading the information on the relevant wildlife or habitat signs.

There is limited parking at Vale farm so pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment. Light refreshments and toilet facilites are also available.
Coach and School Bookings welcome by prior arrangement.
Contact info@valetrail.co.uk or Telephone 01747 811286

We are very sorry but due to the nature of the Vale Trail no dogs are permitted.

We also regret that due to the uneven terrain that the walks are not suitable for wheelchair or pushchair access.

If you would like to chance your luck and see or even photograph a wild badger at play then Badger watching nights can be arranged by special request. This is for small groups and only available to WATCH the badgers' natural behaviour. No other contact with the wild animals is permitted.

Some overnight camping facilities are available. Pre-booking is essential.

Keep your eyes peeled for the opening of our Rare & Minority Breeds Centre which we hope to open to the Public for 2010.
Some of our Rare breeds are already living here with us and settling in. These are breeds such as the very rare and endangered "Baudet du Poitou" Giant Donkey, and Damson the endangered Exmoor pony. Also settling in nicely are our Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys, pygmy and Bagot goats, Giant continental rabbits and tiny Parma wallabies! Lots more animals still to come!

Want to explore the countryside on horse-back ... what about bringing your horse on holiday with you? Paddocks and stabling available. Check out www.valeholidays.co.uk for details of our lovely Converted barns and Granary accommodation.