Octagon Trail

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Use your mobile to scan new QR code signs along the trail that offer interesting local insights and fascinating secrets many residents and visitors are unaware of.

The Octagon Parish is made up of eight villages with churches including Stansted, Racton, Stoughton, East Marden, North Marden, Up Marden, Compton and Forestside. It also includes two villages without churches – West Marden and Walderton.

Blessed with wonderful walks, plus fine views down to the south coast from the neighbouring downs, small Octagon downland churches are noted for their spiritual peace and tranquillity, with some dating back to Saxon times and almost 1,000 years old.

Did you know?

The Octagon has an 18 mile trail, possible within a day for keen walkers. For a more leisurely stroll take a few days to take in the wonderful churches, village facilities, shops, pubs and local downs scenery. There are also two stately homes in the Octagon area, Stansted House and Uppark, well worth a visit for those that like architecture, paintings and gardens!

There are a few places to park in Octagon villages but the trail is easily accessed by public transport using the 54 bus. This runs five times daily Mon to Sat or the Bourne Community Bus runs on Wednesday mornings from Westbourne and Southbourne.

Download or print a 16 page Octagon Trail Booklet as a PDF – click here

1. Stansted Park and Gardens
2. Walderton to Watergate
3. Stoughton to Pitlands Farm
4. Stoughton to Kingley Vale
5. Compton to Telegraph Hill
6. Compton to Compton Down
7. West Marden
8. Marden Villages

Follow the mobile QR codes through the Octagon Trail to find out about the history and heritage of Compton and Stoughton Parishes, sights, churches, villages and local pubs.