Cerne Abbas Giant

The village of Cerne Abbas is best known for its chalk Giant, which at 180ft high is carved into the sloping hillside to the north of the village.

Cerne Abbas Giant, photo by Allou / shutterstock.com

Now under the care of the National Trust this naked Giant's origins remain the subject of much discussion, could it be a fertility symbol or perhaps an ancient Celtic religious symbol? With no written reference to the Giant prior to 1694 the date of its creation may only be revealed by Optical Luminescence, a scientific technique used to date the white horse at Uffington.

Although visitors are prevented from walking on the Giant there are numerous public footpaths leading from the village that are suitable for all abilities. 

The village of Cerne Abbas

In AD987 a Benedictine Abbey was founded in Cerne Abbas and it dominated the area for 500 years. Largely destroyed when it was surrendered to Henry V111 in 1539 the remains of the Abbots' Porch can be seen from the top of Abbey Street. 

St Mary's church dates back to around AD1300 when local monks built it. Several of its 14th century origins still remain although the church has had many additions down the centuries. 

With several small shops and three pubs this typical Dorset village is situated in the heart of the Dorset countryside, about eight miles from the county town of Dorchester.