Experience The Beauty Of What’s Said To Be “One Of Dorset’s Best Hikes”

Old Harry Rocks is one of the southwest’s most famous landmarks.

It has been featured in many films and TV shows and is a very popular hiking spot.

Suitable for all seasons and rich with scenic views and local wildlife, giving you a lovely mix of countryside and seaside.

This hike is one everyone (who is able to) should try.

Old Harry Rocks is a magical place and not one to miss.

The hike is 6.3km and is easy to moderate with some steep inclines, but it’s worth it with the views you’ll get at the top.

It takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

This is a popular trail for hikers, mountain bikers, photographers, dog walkers and anyone who wants a scenic walk.

It can be a busy hike, especially at weekends. If you want a more secluded walk, weekdays are a lot calmer.

💡 Old Harry is a chalk rock formation that, over millions of years due to weather conditions and the sea, has eroded over time to form what is standing there today. Old Harry is the name of the stack that is furthest out to sea.

You start off the hike by parking at The Bankes Arms Inn in Studland. There is a large car park there, and it is free all day for National Trust members.

The Bankes Arms is a delightful country pub offering lots of traditional pub grub and has one of the best views in Dorset from the brilliant beer garden.

This hike is a circular trail, so you can finish with a refreshing drink and a bite to eat.

The only toilets are just past the Bankes Arms when you turn right as if you’re walking from the car park.

Hiking boots or sturdy shoes would be favourable on this hike; however, it can be fine in a pair of trainers.

There are lots of different types of paths as you walk around the area from dirt, grass and roadside.

This trail can be enjoyed any time of year just remember to take care around cliff edges and dress appropriately.

The views are one of the main reasons anyone partakes in this hike; the turquoise sea and white chalky cliffs are beautiful.

💡 Legend has it that the rocks are named after a Poole pirate, Harry Paye. He used to hide his ship behind the rocks, waiting to intercept passing merchant vessels.

Lots of spots are dotted around for you to have different angles and views as you near Old Harry.

The views over to Poole, Bournemouth and Studland are brilliant on a clear day, and sometimes you can see as far out as the Isle of Wight.

Lots of wildlife can be spotted along the way, such as grazing sheep; they are more likely to run away from you, so please remember to be respectful.

Adders and ticks are prominent in the area, so if you’re with your lovely dog, please be aware and take care.

Once you reach Old Harry, you’ll be blown away by the sights and fantastic surroundings.

Boats, kayaks and jetskis are sometimes floating or zooming around, and on a summer’s day, you’ll feel like you’re on holiday.

This is a magnificent part of Dorset and a part that brings so much joy to everyone who can experience it.

You walk past all the rocks on the hike, so you get views from all different angles; it’s nice to experience it fully, take it all in and take your time.

Although visiting on a clear summer day is a real advantage, this walk is great because the rocks look amazing in all seasons.

Once you’ve spent lots of time admiring the scenery, carrying on your walk, you will experience country hills and possibly more grazing animals.

As mentioned, this is a circular route, so it’s up to you which way around you go.

The paths vary throughout, and some paths are closer to the cliff edge, so take care and be sensible.

👉 Click here to see the full detailed route on AllTrails.

The views over Studland and Brownsea Island are beautiful and go on for miles and miles.

The view over to Swanage is also breathtaking. The beautiful town, sandy beaches and baby blue ocean glisten in the sun.

If you’re in the mood for extending your hike, you can venture on down to Swanage. The paths are easy to follow, and there are buses back to Studland if you don’t want to walk back up.

As well as vast open spaces, you’ll come across more enclosed walkways also, offering you lots of natural forest and heathland, wildlife and peaceful surroundings.

This is a trail that is bursting with natural beauty.

Whether you’ve already experienced the trail or it’s your first time, it will always bring joy, and the views never get old.

Click here to visit Alltrails and see the detailed route of the Old Harry Rocks Circular.

Thank you for reading, and enjoy your next outdoor adventure in Dorset.