12 best Dorset walks

Old Harry & Ballard Down from Studland

Walker

Departure from Studland (Dorset)

A short Dorset walk that takes in some of the wonderful geological features of the Jurrassic Coast close to Studland. The walk also provides wonderful views across Swanage Bay.

Seatown from Charmouth via Golden Cap

Departure from Charmouth (Dorset)

This linear Dorset walk follows the South West Coast Path from Charmouth to Seatown. The coastal scenery on this part of the Jurassic Coast is dramatic and the walk includes the highest point on the Dorest Coast at Golden Cap.

St Aldhelm's Head near Worth Matravers

Departure from Worth Matravers (Dorset)

A short Dorset walk in the Isle of Purbeck enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery of St Aldhelms Head. The route uses a section of the South West Coast Path and is an ideal choice for a sunny afternoon.

Osmington Bay

Departure from Osmington (Dorset)

A hilly walk with fantastic views over Osmington Bay starting from the pretty village of Osmington. Not suitable for children as parts of the walk are along public roads with a few road crossings.

St. Catherine Chapel

Departure from Abbotsbury (Dorset)

Easy walk with a short climb to St Catherine's Chapel, which is based on a small hill. At the top, it offers a nice 360° viewpoint.

A challenging day-long hike taking in the beauty of West Dorset.

Departure from Chideock (Dorset)

If you want beaches, cliffs, woodlands and meadows and a walk that will test your fitness, this is the one for you.

Rodden and Langton Herring from Abbotsbury

Departure from Abbotsbury (Dorset)

A Dorset walk that explores the pleasant landscape to the east of the pretty village of Abbotsbury. The ropute includes a section of the South West Coast path including a potion along the shores of West Fleet, the lagoon behind Chesil Beach.

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door

Departure from West Lulworth (Dorset)

Lulworth Cover and Durdle Door are two of the best known features of Dorset's Jurassic Coast. This short walk includes some uphill walking but the path is good and well graded.

From Dinosaurs' tracks in Acton to Swanage via Durlston Head Castle

Departure from Langton Matravers (Dorset)

The walk takes you to the recently discovered dinosaurs' tracks, the little bay on the Channel (Dancing Ledge), and on top of the cliffs before reaching the Southern part of Swanage via the Durlston Head Castle. Enjoy the magnificent sea view and the wild South West Coast Path all along.