11 of The Best Walks in Dorset

Embark on an adventure to the great outdoors with a trip to Dorset. With its unique Jurassic Coast and rolling countryside, walks in Dorset are hard to beat.

From enclosed parklands to take your pooch to sprawling coastlines, this list has it all.

Read on to find the best walks in Dorset…

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Dog walks in Dorset

1) Upton Country Park

 

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Discover 140 acres with your loyal companion in this beautiful parkland in Poole. Upton Country Park has many trails waiting to be explored, as well as a walled botanical garden.

Admire the Grade II listed, Upton House, as you stroll around the park. Any why not grab a warming cup of coffee from The Tea Rooms as you enjoy your walk?

There are two enclosed green spaces for your dog to roam free, so you can bring your pet’s favourite ball along too! After your furry friend has let off some steam, clean their muddy paws in the DIY Dog Wash.

Distance: 3.7 km

Difficulty: Easy

Starting point: BH17 7BJ

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2) Wareham Forest

Connect to nature in the sprawling Wareham Forest. Featuring distant tracks, woods, and heaths, this is a wonderful place for a walk with your canine.

Let your pooch sniff the way through either Woodlark Walk or Sika Trail, lined by tall trees. There is also an enclosed dog area for those energetic dogs wanting to play.

To revive, why not treat your hound to doggy ice cream at the shop on-site? You can also give them a warm wash in the close-by building.

Distance: 9.6 km

Difficulty: Easy

Starting point: BH20 4LP

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3) Heaven’s Gate at Kimmeridge Bay

For panoramic views of the countryside and coast, explore Kimmeridge Bay. This dog-friendly Dorset walk follows a chalk ridge, leading you to a nature reserve.

Settled on the Isle of Purbeck, which hosts the breath-taking Jurassic Coast, this walk won’t disappoint.

Discover the picturesque village of Kimmeridge on your journey. This hamlet is home to thatched cottages, a museum and a quirky farm restaurant.

Back at Kimmeridge Bay, your dog can make a splash in rock pools along the South West Coast Path. And those seeking adventure can test the waves with surfing, snorkelling, and canoeing.

Distance: 8.4 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: BH20 5PH

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Dorset Circular Walks

4) Corfe Castle to Kingston loop

 

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Also situated on the Isle of Purbeck, this Dorset circular walk is idyllic for explorers. Enjoy the peaceful Corfe Castle to Kingston loop, which has splendid views.

Pass Corfe Common, an SSSI due to its array of wildlife and rich history. Admire the ancient ruins of Corfe Castle, a 12th century castle, built for Henry I.

Continue your rural ramble with sights over the green Purbeck landscape. Be sure to bring along your camera for fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, arrive at the quintessential village of Corfe, flecked with stone cottages. There are also village pubs to grab a refreshment before completing your loop.

For a stay in this romantic village, browse these hand-picked Corfe Castle cottages.

Distance: 7.2 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: BH20 5HH

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5) Portland Bill

Venture to the southernmost tip of the isle of Portland, Portland Bill. This level walk is a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers and cyclists.

Begin at the unique Portland Bill lighthouse, painted in red and white. Then, follow the coastal path for jaw-dropping views to the 18-mile, Chesil Beach.

On your journey, kissing gates will lead you to flower-filled meadows and farmland.

You will find two more lighthouses on your adventure, which date to 1716. In the past, these lighthouses would guide ships to safety but now, visitors can tour the inside.

Distance: 5.6 km

Starting Point: DT5 2JT

Difficulty: Easy

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6) Golden Cap

Absorb impressive views of sprawling countryside with this Dorset circular walk, Golden Cap.

After parking up in the car park, follow sign posts towards Golden Cap. The signs will guide you through larch and Scots pine at Langdon Hill.

This rich woodland mirror’s its seasons; in Spring admire a carpet of bluebells.

When you find the clearing, take in the Golden Cap, the highest tip on the southern coast. This burnt orange cliff is yellow sandstone and is 627 feet high.

Distance: 4.8 km

Difficulty: Easy

Starting point: DT6 6SF

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Dorset Coastal Walks

7) Old Harry Rocks

Old Harry Rocks are three unique chalk formations, which are a must-see when visiting Dorset. Embark on a journey along the coast path for panoramic views of the Jurassic coast.

This moderate walk has a slight incline to test your stamina. On the clifftop, discover colourful chalk grassland or look over to the Pinacle stack.

Follow this circular walk towards the 1976 church, which enjoys a mix of old and new features. To learn more about this fascinating landmark, read our blog, ‘Your Guide to Old Harry Rocks‘.

Distance: 5.6 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: BH19 3AU

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Can you walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door?

Yes! This linear walk is considered an easy route.

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8) Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door

 

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Begin this Dorset walk at the beautiful, seashell-shaped, Lulworth Cove. From the clifftop, savour views of the turquoise sea below.

This liner walk is short, great for those sunny days, when you want to see the sights. Spend your time relishing the rays on the beach and take a dip in the clear water.

Amble the South West Coast Path to reach the iconic landmark of Durdle Door. This magnificent stone arch is one of Dorset’s most photographed attractions.

Visiting Lulworth Cove? Then, be sure to read: “11 Restaurants in Lulworth Cove”

Distance: 4.8 km

Difficulty: Easy

Starting point: BH20 5PU

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 9) West Bay to Hive Beach Café

West Bay is home to bright orange cliffs and is a great destination for families. As a gateway to the Jurassic Coast, West Bay is a fantastic setting for the day.

Unwind on the shingle beach as the young ones build sand-castles before strolling to the café.

If you time your walk well, the crumbling cliffs at west Bay will be bathed in a golden light from the sun.

When you reach  Hive Beach Café, choose from a selection of fresh locally sourced seafood and hot drinks.

During your time at West Bay, check out other nearby attractions. Fan of the TV series, Broadchurch, can tour its iconic filming spots.

Distance: 8.6 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: DT6 4EW

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How long is the Jurassic Walk?

In total, the Jurassic walk stretches 95 miles!

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10) Old Harry Rocks- The Bankes Arms

 

Back at Old Harry Rocks, why not plan your route based on The Bankes Arms in Swanage? This 16th century inn is settled in the Purbeck Hills and benefits from sea-views.

Map your walk from The Bankes Arms and head downwards towards Old Harry Rocks. Then, continue along the coastal path to reach the vibrant town of Swanage.

Or, turn back to The Bankes Arms for a wide range of drinks and heart-warming meals. Sample the Isle of Purbeck brewery’s beers or homemade cider to reward your hike.

For more delicious eateries in Swanage, take a look at our blog: “11 of the Best Restaurants in Swanage”.

Distance: 9.7 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: BH19 3AU

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11) Blandford Forum- The World’s End

Head inland to North Dorset, for a countryside ramble with a family-friendly pub. Surrounded by greenery, in the picturesque village of Almer, is The World’s End.

Explore quintessential Dorset villages on foot or bike and meet other walkers alike. Relish the fresh air before cosying up inside the welcoming pub.

The World’s End offers a large menu to suit all tastes; refuel with a hearty burger or pie. There is also an outdoor play area for those traveling with little ones.

To discover more pub walks, visit: “4 of the Best Pub Walks in Dorset”.

Distance: 7.8 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Starting point: DT11 9EW 

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Has this list of the best Dorset walks awoke your inner-adventurer? Why not book your trip and browse Dorset holiday homes?

For more inspiration on how to spend your time in Dorset read our blog: “9 Weird and Wonderful Things to do in Dorset“.