” A good pair of boots and a camera….what more do I need?”

Early retirement and a recent move to the beautiful county of Dorset has reinvigorated a desire to pursue two mutually compatible interests in my life; photography and walking.

Since 2011 I have recorded my photographic endeavours at alanfrostphotography.com and this will continue. However ‘A lens walk’ will place the emphasis firmly on walking and the enjoyment to be had from being in the countryside, discovering new places and the pathways which lead there. I don’t know of anything better than being out and about, breathing the fresh air, surrounded by nature and the beauty of the landscape in the UK.

With so much to explore where do I start? I have great respect if not a little envy for anyone who has climbed all 282 Munros in Scotland or the 214 Wainwrights in the Lake District. However I have much more modest intentions, as age, fitness and where I live are all against me achieving such lofty ambitions.

The diverse Dorset scenery

is on my doorstep and
waiting to be explored

Primarily I will be concentrating on the diverse Dorset scenery which is now on my doorstep. It is just waiting to be explored. From the rolling hills and green river valleys, to the forests and heathland, the towns and villages, and not forgetting of course the spectacular Jurassic Coastline. I would like to develop a deeper understanding and knowledge of the county. The landscape, its geology, history, nature and wildlife. It may also help me to stay fit!

I have a few excellent walking guide books and there are numerous routes available online, but to begin I have identified about 50 mainly circular routes which average just over 4 miles, the longest being 13.5 miles. Fortunately many include a café or pub along the way!

My intention is to complete as many if not all of these walks in the coming year (2022). In time I will be adding some routes of my own, not just in Dorset but also in other parts of the UK. I may repeat personal favourites as I know the changing seasons and weather conditions will affect both the experience and appearance of the landscape.

Route map for Lewesdon Hill

Each outing will be planned using the ‘Outdoor Active’ App, generating route maps and other information. As I place one foot in front of the other, I will make some notes and photograph anything that takes my eye or enhances the narrative. I may even carry a sketchbook and pen.

The Journal will be used to describe each outing plus any other thoughts or information which I think is of interest. The Walks page will list all the walks undertaken with links back to the corresponding Journal entry.

This website is my way of keeping a record of each excursion. Whilst primarily for my own benefit I also hope there will be other like minded individuals who may find my experiences and stories to be of interest. If so, do click on the ‘follow me’ button at the foot of this page and you will receive an email notificaton when another walk has been completed.

Happy walking…..

Alan Frost

A couple of notes:

1. Each walk is no more than a guide so if you intend following a similar path then I would advise you to check the route and access for yourself to be on the safe side.

2. The copyright of all the photographs on this site belongs to me. If you wish to use or purchase a photograph then please email me for permission or further information.