The Hardy Way is the first long distance path in Great Britain to be linked with the works of a great writer. Thomas Hardy (1840-1928) set most of his novels and many poems in Wessex, once an ancient kingdom of southern England. The heart of Hardy's Wessex is Dorset and the Hardy Way is a journey through some of the most unspoilt parts of this beautiful county, extending from the coast then inland to the timeless Cranborne Chase on the Wiltshire border.

The Way begins at Hardy's birthplace and its circuit ends over 200 miles later in the nearby churchyard where his heart lies buried. En route there is a wealth of interest in history, wildlife, landscape and literature.

The walk can be divided into sections for those who prefer short walks, but for the long distance walker here is a challenge to add to the existing long distance paths, this time with the added dimension of commentary written by one of the masters of English literature. This book will appeal to all walkers and to Hardy's admirers everywhere, including those who come from the USA, Australasia, Japan and other places far distant from this English rural idyll.

This 200 page illustrated guide provides a wealth of literary and historical information in addition to very detailed directions and discussion of points of interest along this lovely route.