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Walks in Dorset

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Experience the great outdoors with some fantastic walks in Dorset

What better way to explore than on foot? Discover the greatest walks in Dorset with our handy walking guide.

Dorset is home to England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, the renowned geological treasure known as the Jurassic Coast, as well as being the inspiration behind Thomas Hardy’s semi-fictionalised Wessex. There are plenty of walks in Dorset that take in the beauty of the county, as well as historical sites both inland and along the coast.

Walks in Dorset

Explore the Vale of Marshwood, visit Iron Age hill forts such as Lambert’s and Coney’s Castles, or take in part of the South West Coast Path at the historic resort of Lyme Regis. There are plenty of coastal walks to enjoy in Dorset, especially along the awe-inspiring Jurassic Coast. If you are looking for a dog walk in Dorset, there are plenty of trails that are pleasurable for both owners and pets alike.

Take a walk to the Southern end of Studland Bay to see the chalk formations, nicknamed Old Harry Rocks, with far-reaching views across the water to the Isle of Wight, or wander through the rolling hills of the Melbury Downs, the setting for Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles and other novels of the Blackmore Vale. There are many trails for all the family, including those with four legs.

Discover the most scenic roads and experience Dorset’s countryside on walks in Dorset…


Vale of Marshwood image by: Bob&Anne Powell

  • Golden Cap

    Golden Cap

    Golden Cap Estate
    Morcombelake
    Bridport
    Dorset

    01297 489481

    This natural World Heritage Site is a stunning flat hilltop made up of orange sandstone, overlooking the iconic Jurassic Coast.

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  • Clavell Tower Kimmeridge Bay east of Lulworth Cove on the Dorset coast

    Jurassic Coast Kimmeridge Circular

    3h 58m

    8.8 miles

    Moderate

    Kimmeridge circular walk boasts incredible views of Kimmeridge Bay in Dorset. It is a moderate loop enjoying plenty of wildlife and landmarks forming part of the Jurassic Coast.

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  • Melbury Downs

    Melbury Downs was purchased in the memory of famous writer and poet Thomas Hardy, in order to protect the area in which he set his novels of the Blackmore Vale. There are a number of different trails that run through the beautiful landscape that suit all different levels of capabilities.

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  • Blue skies over Old Harry Rocks, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dorset, on the Jurassic Coast

    Old Harry Rocks and Studland Circular Walk

    1h 41m

    3.5 miles

    Moderate

    A great circular walk taking you on a journey to the most Eastern point on the Jurassic Coast and through the village of Studland. 

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  • Studland Bay to Old Harry Rocks

    This moderate 3.8-mile walk starts at the South Beach car park in Studland and traverses the impressive chalk cliffs to get a fantastic view of the Old Harry Rocks, marking the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast.

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  • Purbeck Ridgeway

    The Purbeck Ridgeway

    Starting at the ruins of Corfe Castle, this moderate 8.7-mile trail weaves through the spectacular Dorset countryside, reaching the coast at the chalk cliffs of Ballard Down, and then follows the coastal path to the town of Swanage.

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  • Vale of Marshwood

    There are a number of walking trails suitable for all abilities that pass through the scenic Vale of Marshwood. Make sure to take in the Iron Age hill forts of Lambert’s and Coney’s Castles; the majority of the pathways that pass these interesting archaeological sites are dog-friendly, so make sure to bring any four-legged friends.

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