Dorset is immensely rich in ancient history and has been settled since pre-Iron Age times. Settlements from this and succeeding eras are in evidence across the county. The best known, and largest, of the hillforts, is Maiden Castle, which commands an impressive site just south of Dorchester. Other less well-known but equally impressive hillforts, all offering a steep climb but stupendous views, include Pilsdon Pen and Eggardon Hill in West Dorset, and Hambledon and Hod Hills in North Dorset. Further east, the more gentle Badbury Rings lies just off the ancient trade highways the Dorset Cursus and Ackling Dyke, parts of which can still be walked today. Close by, the ruins of a Christian church lie at the centre of the unique and mystical Knowlton Rings.

A very different but very well known structure lies just to the north of Dorchester, at Cerne Abbas. The huge chalk 60m high Giant figure carved into the hillside has fascinated people for centuries and entertains a wealth of legend and stories. Widely recognised as a fertility symbol, the Giant is thought to date from Roman times.

For a taster of more domestic life in Roman times, visit the well-preserved villa remains at Rockbourne www.hants.gov.uk/museum/rockbourne or Dorchester.