9 of the Best Dog Walks in Dorset

With a spectacular natural coastline, Dorset is one of the best places to explore with your loyal companions. Put your boots on, grab the lead and enjoy one of these energetic dog walks in Dorset. 

From Hive Beach to the Golden Cap, there are plenty of places to go dog walking in Dorset. Whether you are an experienced walker or want to take the dog out, you can find the perfect walk on your visit.

Grab your treats and head out on one of these dog walks in Dorset…

---

Hill walks in Dorset

Hive Beach

 

The Hive Beach walk is a stroll on narrow paths that are almost level throughout, with just a few steps upwards (some steep) and very gentle descent.

The beach stretches over a mile and is a great place to let your dogs run free.

With the chance to run free on the sandy beach and splash around in the water, your dogs will love the opportunity to explore.

In the summer, you may see families enjoying a day on the beach. And if you get hungry, there is a little beach café opposite the car park.

Between 1st May and 30th September, dogs are not allowed directly onto Hive Beach. However, dogs are suitable if you head east towards Cogden Beach.

Parking

Beach Road
Burton Bradstock
Bridport
DT6 4RF

Purbeck Ridge

We’ve seen the coast; now let’s head inland.

The Purbeck Ridge is a chalk ridge that separates Corfe Valley and flat heathlands. There are plenty of walks to choose from, and you can see popular sights like Corfe Castle.

Your dogs will love the freedom of running around through the open fields and looking out over the Purbeck Ridge. The large open spaces and natural green hills are the perfect way to exercise with your loyal companion.

Along the way, you may also find some prehistoric remains. From forts to barrows, the Purbeck Ridge is a journey of discovery.

Parking

There are many different parking spots along Purbeck Ridge. It all depends on your starting point and where you want to go.

Cerne Abbas

Starting at the Cerne Abbas Viewpoint, a 180ft tall naked man will greet you on the hillside.

Whilst many only visit the viewpoint, there are stunning walks up into the rolling hills that host the Cerne Abbas Giant. 

Find out all there is to know about the Cerne Abbas Giant and give your dog a lecture as you walk around this ancient sculpture.

Starting from the viewpoint, the Cerne Abbas walk is a loop. You can hike up the hill the giant stands on. And then finish off with some of the villages beautiful sights.

But why stop there? After a day of walking, why not treat yourselves to a break in one of the villages charming cafes.

There are so many cosy cafes to enjoy afternoon tea in Dorset.

Parking

38 Acreman Street
Cerne Abbas
Dorchester
DT2 7JX

The Golden Cap

Looking for a different dog walk in Dorset? The Golden Cap may be the best choice for you.

For stunning views along the coast, The Golden Cap is the highest point on the South Coast. It is a great place to go for a dog walk in Dorset.

Located between Charmouthand Seatown, you can reach the peak following the coast along. With wide-open spaces and places where you can get to the beach, your dogs will love a run around The Golden Cap.

Just be sure to try and keep up with them.

Parking

South West Coast Path
Bridport
DT6 6JU

---

Dorset beach walks for dogs

Lulworth Cove

Lulworth Cove is a popular tourist spot along the Jurassic Coast. There are plenty of walks along this stretch for both you and your dog.

From Lulworth Cove, head west to discover the impressive Durdle Door. Or, on the opposite side of the cove, you can see the ancient fossil forest.

The walk starts from the car park, and you can choose long and short walks.

There are also a few inland loops that can make your walk as long as you need.

And why not pack a picnic and enjoy a lunch looking out over the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast.

Parking

West Lulworth
Wareham
BH20 5RS

Kimmeridge Bay

Many of the dog-friendly walks in Dorset are along the coast. It is hard to dismiss the amount of beauty along the way.

Kimmeridge Bay is another stunning walk to the east of Tyneham. 

Walking around the bay, you can see Clavell Tower and Tyneham Cap. 

If you are hoping for a longer walk, the Kimmeridge Circle is a 7-mile loop. Along the walk, there are both on-lead and off-lead areas. Plus, there are toilets and water filling stations to keep you hydrated.

As you make your way along the route, keep an eye out for the fantastic views you will get of the bay and the southwest coast.

Kimmeridge also offers an opportunity to try rock pooling, snorkelling and surfing.

Parking

The Toll Hut
Kimmeridge Approach Road
Kimmeridge
Wareham
BH20 5PF

Studland Bay

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pudding (@puddingthesausagedog)

Studland Bay is ideal if you want to enjoy a variety of walks with your dog.

There are five main walks that you can do from Studland, but you can extend each one to suit your walking ability.

The Old Harry Rocks walk and sand dune trail are great if you want to see the coastal beauty of Studland Bay. Or, to discover some of the regions precious nature, head inland and enjoy the woodland walk or the Godlingston Heath walk. 

From Studland, you can also reach Bournemouth pier and then enjoy a dog walk in Bournemouth too!  And if you want to learn about some of Dorset’s history with your dog, there is a Second World War walk.

Heading out on a dog walk in Dorset is a great way to exercise for both you and your companion. There is no reason you can’t do some learning along the way.

Parking

South West Coast Path
Swanage
BH19 3AH

---

Dog-friendly nature reserve walks

Tout Quarry

As a converted quarry, Tout Quarry is a sculpture and nature reserve.

The walk through the park is ideal for dogs, with twists and turns around every corner. Plus, the art on display is from some of the UK’s most prominent artists. You can even see Anthony Gormley’s Still Falling here.

At the park, there are over 40 acres to explore, and along the way, you can see fantastic views over Chesil Beach and West Bexington. For more more inspiration, check-out our blog: Your Guide to Chesil Beach.

Parking

Tout Quarry Sculpture Park & Nature Reserve
Tradecroft Estate
Portland
DT5 2LN

 

---

Woodland walks for dogs

Duncliffe Woods

Duncliffe Wood is ancient woodland. Here you can discover some of Dorset’s wonderful nature in the wild.

This walk is ideal on a hot day, and you are looking to keep out of the sun. The woodland offers plenty of shelter to take plenty of breaks, but remember to keep your dogs hydrated as well as yourself.

There are a variety of walks for all abilities, with the Oak Leaf Route the longest trail on offer. Know your limits, pack plenty of water and enjoy a fun day with fido.

Along the way, keep a lookout for butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. However, remember to respect the environment and prevent your dogs from disturbing any wildlife.

You can find out more about exploring the woods with your dogs here.

Parking

Stour Provost
Gillingham
SP8 5LZ

---

 

---

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Visit Dorset (@visitdorsetofficial)

Getting out for exercise with the dog can be one of the most rewarding activities. Be sure to wrap up, take treats and plenty of water. You are sure to have an energetic day out on one of these dog walks in Dorset.

There are plenty of dog-friendly activities in Dorset. Whether you need a dog-friendly beach or somewhere to eat with your pets, Dorset is a dog-friendly place to stay.

---

Check out these dog-friendly cottages in Dorset and treat your four-legged friends to a South Coast break this year. It really can be a rewarding getaway to relax with your family.

---

Image Credits – Sarah Smith – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Jim Champion – (CC BY-SA 2.0); David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Nigel Mykura – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Becky Williamson – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Eugene Birchall – (CC BY-SA 2.0)