Dorset is well known for its abundance of coastline, particularly in the Bournemouth and Poole areas.
With up to 9 miles of endless beaches running from Hengistbury Head to Sandbanks, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a hike, with the perfect mix of sandy white beaches and even a glimpse at millionaire homes as you walk around one of the most expensive places in the world.
Here’s what to look forward to on this Bournemouth to Sandbanks walk.
This walk is a 13.7km walk and should take approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes.
This is a trek for you if you enjoy lots of people around as it can be a popular place, especially for dog walkers and runners.
However, if you complete the walk during quieter times, you may experience moments of solitude as you gaze out at the sparkling ocean and Purbeck landscape in the distance.
You can start the walk in Bournemouth town centre or on the east cliff. There are lots of parking spots and a bus service nearby.
During the height of spring and summer, the gardens are abundant with pretty flowers and foliage so that you can get your walk off to a good start.
This is an out-and-back trail so that you can experience everything again on your way back.
As you reach Bournemouth Pier, you’ll be in a popular tourist spot, so the chances are it’ll be busy.
Facing the iconic Pier, you will take a right.
As you begin to walk down the beach, you’ll find much quieter areas. There are plenty of places to rest, so you can sit, relax and take it all in.
The pathways are all paved and flat, so although the walk is long, you can be sure there are no steep inclines as you go.
As Bournemouth pier gets smaller, you’ll start walking through all the various beaches.
Some with pretty beach huts and others with dramatic and picturesque cliff tops to look up to and admire.
You’ll soon reach the ‘Welcome to Poole’ sign. As you walk on, the Purbeck Hills will look closer, and the mix of flora and fauna will be a pretty sight.
To add to the atmosphere, you may spot quaint little fishing boats as you pass through, and seagulls can be heard overhead.
It’s impossible not to be happy as you take in the beautiful surroundings.
Along the beach, everyone is in good spirits and lots of happy faces and excited dogs as you walk by.
On warm days, families and beachgoers enjoy paddling in the sea, sunbathing and building sandcastles.
There are many spots for refreshments and a bite to eat. Situated on Branksome Beach, you’ll find Rockwater, which offers a number of delicious dishes, a drinks menu and a takeaway service.
A takeaway shack located at Sandbanks serves toasties, hot dogs and light bites.
If you want to stop for a chilled drink, the views and atmosphere are relaxed and happy.
There are also many toilet facilities along the way.
As you carry on, you will reach the Sandbanks Peninsula, known for its iconic white sandy beaches, millionaire mansions and crystal clear waters popular for all types of water sports.
You can walk the entire peninsula loop, admiring the beautiful homes while catching glimpses of Brownsea Island and bobbing boats on the water.
Once you have looped Sandbanks, you can walk back to Bournemouth and appreciate the views on the way back.
Once you’re back in town, you will find lots to do, including places to eat, amusements and a busy nightlife.
To find out more about this out-and-back trail, visit Alltrails here.
