Exploring the coast of Dorset is a delightful experience for anyone who loves the outdoors.
With its stunning landscapes and picturesque paths, the Dorset Coast offers a variety of walks that cater to different levels of fitness and interest.
From dramatic cliffs to serene beaches, there’s something special about every walk.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the coastal walks in Dorset promise breathtaking views and memorable moments.
So grab your walking boots and get ready to discover the charm of Dorset’s coastal paths.
1. Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks offers a beautiful walk along the Jurassic coast. Starting from South Beach car park in Studland, this trail provides some striking views of unique rock formations.
Take in breathtaking views and spot the chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks while enjoying the feeling of reaching the top and being surrounded by nothing but nature and the countryside.
Please be mindful of the sheer cliff edges!
The Bankes Arm’s by the South Beach car park is also a great place to grab some lunch with the best views from the beer garden.
Key Points:
- Distance: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Medium
- Average time: 2-4 hours
2. Golden Cap
Golden Cap offers a stunning walk in Dorset.
Starting at Seatown, the trail leads to the highest point on the south coast of England. The climb is steep and can be challenging but rewards hikers with incredible views along the Jurassic Coast.
The trail is part of a circular route that includes a descent through picturesque woodland and past historical landmarks like the ruins of St Gabriel’s Chapel.
Key Points:
- Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Average Time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
3. Portland Bill
Portland Bill is a stunning coastal walk known for its dramatic cliffs and striking lighthouse.
With a few short ascents and descents, this walk is less of a hike and offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
Visitors can enjoy the Portland Bill Lighthouse and its surroundings, making it a great spot for taking photos. The area is also popular for bird watching.
Key Points
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Average Time: 2 hours
For more detailed information, visit the Portland Bill walk guide.
4. Corfe Castle to Swanage
This walk from Corfe Castle to Swanage offers stunning views and varied landscapes.
Starting at Corfe Castle, this route leads you through the Purbeck hills.
The path is challenging, with steep ascents and muddy tracks, so good footwear is essential.
As you walk, you’ll pass Old Harry Rocks before reaching Swanage.
For a detailed guide, check out more about the Corfe Castle to Swanage trail.
Key Points:
- Distance: 7.8 miles (12.5 km)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Time: 3-4.5 hours
5. Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
The walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door is a beautiful short walk. It’s around 1.25 miles of well-marked path.
The route starts at Lulworth Cove, where visitors can find parking and other facilities.
As you walk, enjoy the sights of grazing livestock and hidden beaches tucked below the cliffs. The path winds up to nearly 400 feet, offering stunning coastal scenery.
The walk ends at the top of the cliffs above Durdle Door; you’ll feel on top of the world and will want to take lots of photos of the turquoise sea and one of Dorset’s most famous landmarks.
Key Points:
- Distance: 2 kilometres (1.25 miles)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Time: 30 minutes one way
For more detailed information, Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Walk.
6. Mudeford Sandbank to Bournemouth Pier
A coastal walk from Mudeford Spit to Bournemouth Pier treats you to 7 miles of stunning sandy beaches.
Starting at Mudeford Spit, the path offers beautiful views of Christchurch Harbour.
Walkers can explore Hengistbury Head, a nature reserve with wildlife and greenery.
Then, the route continues past Southbourne Beach, a quieter area perfect for a relaxing stroll.
The journey also includes walking along Fisherman’s Walk, Boscombe Pier, and finally ending at Bournemouth Beaches and Pier.
This easy walk takes about three hours and is accessible for all.
You’ll see so many amazing sights along the way and some great spots to grab an ice cream to keep you going.
- Distance: 7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Walking Average Time: 3 hours
For more detailed information on this walk, you can view Mudeford Sandbank to Bournemouth Pier Walk.
7. Hive Beach to West Bay
This walk begins at Hive Beach, adjacent to Burton Bradstock. The trail heads west, leading walkers along the stunning Jurassic Coast.
The landscape features ancient golden cliffs, shingle beaches, and panoramic sea views.
It’s a fairly easy walk, but there are a couple of steep, potentially tricky descents.
The path passes through coastal meadows and alongside the River Bride, eventually reaching picturesque West Bay.
A perfect spot for a break is the Watch House Café in West Bay.
Key Points:
- Distance: 6 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Time: 3-4 hours
Read more about the Hive Beach to West Bay walk.
8. Kimmeridge, Kingston and Clavell Tower
Kimmeridge Bay is a starting point known for its rocky shoreline and unique geology.
As you venture from Kimmeridge towards Kingston, you’ll find stunning views of the coastline.
The path is mostly easy to follow and provides a lot of beautiful sights.
Clavell Tower, a 19th-century structure, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
It’s a must-see and the perfect spot for photographers.
Key Points:
- Distance: 9.3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Average Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
For detailed information, visit this walk in Dorset.
9. Tyneham Village and Flower’s Barrow
Tyneham Village and Flower’s Barrow is a captivating walk in Dorset.
This 3.7-mile route weaves through the hauntingly deserted Tyneham Village, evacuated in 1943 during World War II.
The trail offers breathtaking views over Worbarrow Bay and ends at Flower’s Barrow, an ancient Iron Age hill fort.
The tracks, while generally accessible, include one steady climb and a steep descent.
Key Points:
- Distance: 3.7 miles (5.9 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Average Time: 2 hours 13 minutes
10. Osmington Roman
This 4.7-mile walk starts at Bowleaze Coveway, you follow the coast path towards Weymouth and pass Redcliff Point.
On this walk, you’ll see a Roman temple and villa, as well as the famous chalk horse that was carved to carry George III away from Weymouth.
You can explore ancient agricultural methods and see the manor mentioned in the Domesday Book.
A scenic walk that takes you through history.
You can learn more details about the walk from Bowleaze Coveway to Osmington Mills.
Key Points
- Distance: 4.7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Walking time: Approximately 2 hours
11. Weymouth to Smuggler’s Inn
This 2.5-mile walk takes you from Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth to the historic Smuggler’s Inn at Osmington Mills.
The path crosses Red Cliff, Eweleaze Beach, and Black Head. It offers stunning views of Weymouth and Portland.
The route is well-trodden and provides glimpses of the Jurassic Coast’s unique landscape.
At the end of your walk, enjoy a refreshing drink at the Smuggler’s Inn, a pub dating back to the 13th century.
Key Points:
- Distance: 2.5 miles (each way)
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Time: 1 hour (each way)
For more details, check out the walk guide.
