Land around Cerne Abbas Giant saved after Stephen Fry’s backing
A fundraising appeal to purchase the land surrounding Dorset’s iconic Cerne Abbas Giant has successfully reached its target in just 60 days.
The National Trust has contributed £330,000 towards the purchase and maintenance of 138 hectares adjacent to the famous landmark in Dorset.
The charity confirmed donations ranging from £1 to £32,000 came from supporters in 20 countries, including Australia, Japan and Ireland.
Overall more than £2 million was raised to purchase the area known as Giant’s Lair, which houses Giant Hill and its diverse wildlife.
The campaign also received support from actor and writer Sir Stephen Fry.
West Dorset & Cranborne Chase managing director Hannah Jefferson said: “As we move into 2026 it is amazing that we now have the opportunity to do so much more around the Cerne Abbas Giant.
“We were able to reach the target thanks to generous donations made through the appeal, gifts from major donors, bequests, support and donations from local businesses – all of which came together to make this once-in-a-lifetime purchase possible.
“We can now begin to create a patchwork, or mosaic, of habitats to help species adapt and thrive.”
Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Giant Hill is home to 36 butterfly species.
Purchasing the land will allow the charity to restore and maintain sections of chalk grassland, plant new woodland and create a mosaic of habitats that supports threatened species and helps wildlife adapt to climate change.
Work has already begun to recruit a local ranger to lead National Trust staff, contractors and volunteers through the next steps.
The team will also look to collaborate with organizations including Butterfly Conservation.
Ms Jefferson added: “Now that the land is in our care, we will get to know the area and its opportunities, speak to the community about their aspirations and local knowledge, and apply for any relevant additional grants that will help us invest further in nature.”
At the beginning of the summer, the Giant itself will be re-chalked with the help of 10 donors who won the “money can’t buy” experience as part of the Crowdfunder prize draw.
Donors will join staff and volunteers to place up to 17 tonnes of chalk across the Giant’s sweeping outlines, keeping weeds at bay and ensuring it remains visible for miles for years to come.
The land purchase will also open up new opportunities for archaeology. Based on analysis conducted in 2021 which found that the Giant was probably first carved in the Early Medieval period (AD 770-1100).
Archaeologist Steve Timms said: “This acquisition will provide the opportunity for archaeological research and investigation at a landscape scale.
“This will not only help us manage the land optimally, but also answer questions about the development of settlement and ritual activities in the region over several millennia.”
