Beaminster Down facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Beaminster Down |
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Beaminster Down viewed from the Monarch's Way looking southwest
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 244 m (801 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Dorset, England |
| Parent range | Dorset Downs |
| OS grid | ST493033 |
| Topo map | OS Landranger No. 194 |
Beaminster Down is a tall hill located in West Dorset, England. It stands at 244 metres (about 800 feet) high. This makes it one of the highest points in this part of Dorset.
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Beaminster Down: A Hill in Dorset
Beaminster Down is a special place. It is known for its beautiful views and interesting history. People enjoy visiting this hill for walks and to explore nature. It is a great spot to see the countryside.
Where is Beaminster Down?
Beaminster Down is a type of land called "common land." This means that local people have certain rights to use it, like for grazing animals. The hill is part of the Dorset Downs, which is a range of chalk hills.
It sits high above the town of Beaminster. The town is about one and a half miles to the southwest. From the top of the hill, you can see a steep slope that drops down towards the town.
Many paths cross Beaminster Down. Two long-distance walking trails go over the hill. There are also two smaller roads and several other tracks. This makes it easy for people to explore the area.
What's the History of Beaminster Down?
Beaminster Down has a long and interesting history. People have used this land for thousands of years. Evidence of past activities can still be seen today.
Ancient Times
Long ago, people lived on Beaminster Down. We know this because of special mounds called tumuli. These are ancient burial mounds. They were built by people who lived here in prehistoric times. You can find these tumuli to the northeast of the hill. They show us that humans have been part of this landscape for a very long time.
World War II
Beaminster Down also played a role in more recent history. During the Second World War, soldiers used the hill for training. They practiced throwing grenades in special zig-zag trenches. These trenches were protected with sandbags. This training helped prepare soldiers for battles during the war.
