Photo by Malc McDonald from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Castleman Trailway

📍 Poole

The Castleman Trailway is a 16-mile traffic-free walking and cycling route following a disused railway line from Upton Country Park through Wimborne to Ringwood. Named after lawyer Charles Castleman who championed the Southampton-Dorchester railway, the trail opened in 2001 providing accessible countryside recreation. The level route passes through varied landscapes including farmland, woodland, heathland, and riverside meadows. Wildlife thrives along the green corridor with opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and wildflowers. The trail connects towns and villages allowing circular walks or linear journeys with public transport returns. Well-maintained surfaces suit families with young children, mobility scooters, and cyclists of all abilities. Information boards explain railway heritage and local history. The Castleman Trailway exemplifies successful railway conversion to greenway, providing health, transport, and environmental benefits while preserving industrial heritage.