If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk, then this Highcliffe Beach to Mudeford Quay Hike will be right up your street.
With brilliant views and rustic beaches this is the ultimate walk that isn’t too hard but will get some decent steps in.
On a clear day, the views are breathtaking; sunsets are spectacular and on quieter days, you’ll have the beach all to yourself.
This hike is 8.5km, which starts and ends at the same place; you’ll have lovely views from both directions and lots of opportunities for refreshments along the way.
Here’s a look at some of the sights you may see on your hike.
The trail is suitable for running, hiking or walking, the views will bring so much joy you’ll love the whole experience.
Dogs are allowed on the beach; however, there are some restrictions, and they need to be on leads at all times along the promenade.
To get the most out of the Highcliffe Beach to Mudeford Quay Hike, visiting between April through October is best; however, the beach is spectacular all year round.
You’ll start your hike at the Highcliffe Cliff Top Car Park; charges do apply here and seasonally, it may be more expensive.
It’s worth paying the extra to enjoy more time on the beach and not have to worry about rushing back.
📍 Highcliffe, Christchurch BH23 5DF
Walking down the path, you’ll see brilliant views of the Isle of Wight, boats sailing by and a rustic and natural beach.
The beach throughout is a mixture of sand and stones, so flip-flops may not be the best choice of footwear for this walk.
However, if you wish for a smoother walk, the promenade is a better choice, although it might not run through some of it.
Along the way you’ll come to the Highcliffe Castle zig zag, you can go up the path to the castle or carry on along the beach.
This is an excellent spot and, at quieter times, is very secluded.
Note toilets are few and far between, so bear in mind that there are more available when you reach the busier parts of the beach.
When walking along any areas with cliff tops, be aware that there might be some parts of the cliff that fall due to erosion.
The hike is an out-and-back trail and is perfect for getting all the different viewpoints along the way.
You can never get tired of this view.
The mix of beach and countryside is often rare and makes for such a beautiful place to be.
Safety is so important, especially in rural areas, so remember to be cautious of the tides.
When the tides are in, large waves and strong tides can be a danger, so please remember to act sensibly when out and about.
When you reach the halfway point you’ll start coming across some places to grab a bite to eat and a refreshment.
The Beach Hut Cafe is a great place to grab a coffee, sit and enjoy the views.
There are also spots to enjoy a picnic, with benches and tables for the public to use.
Avon Beach is a pretty spot with picturesque pastel beach huts, lots of surrounding trees and white sand.
You’ll forget you’re in the UK on a hot day.
During points in the year you might come across The Avon Beach Market, a small market set in the beach huts selling locally made items such as art, jewellery, gifts and more.
If you carry on towards Mudeford, you’ll come across The Noisy Lobster.
It is an excellent seafood restaurant, serving delicious food with magnificent views of the beach.
Also part of The Noisy Lobster you’ll find a shop, deli and bakery selling some of the most amazing cakes and sweet treats.
If you fancy eating on the beach, you can grab a takeaway from The Lobster Hatch.
After all the Lobster and Avon Beach excitement, carry on your walk, and you’ll reach Mudeford Quay.
A beautiful part of Dorset, known for its amazing views and a short ferry ride over to Mudeford Spit, famous for housing the most expensive beach huts in the UK.
The quay also has a children’s play park and is an excellent place for crabbing.
The Haven House Inn is another excellent place to eat with amazing views of the hike! The pub, The Smugglers Tavern, sells delicious dishes, fine ale, beers and wines. With outside seating, perfect on warmer days.
There is also a cafe with views of The Needles on the Isle of Wight, offering coffee, breakfasts, lunches and more.
Once you’re finished or if you don’t feel like stopping, it’s time to turn back from where you came.
This way you’ll experience the walk from the opposing direction and will get the benefits of the views from every angle.
This is a brilliant hike to enjoy with friends, loved ones, your dog or on your own.
Being busier on warmer days, you’ll be able to stop, talk and make friends along the way or on quieter days, have the whole place to yourself.
Click here to see the full details of this trail on AllTrails.
Thank you for reading, and enjoy!
