Top 10 Dorset Walks
23 Jan 2019
Walking is the best way to see much of Dorset – you can get to the parts of the coast and countryside that are not accessible by car. Why not try one of these walks and experience some stunning scenery? Choose one that you’d like to do and put those walking boots on!
Corfe Castle to Ballard Down
Part of the Purbeck Way, this 8.75 mile route takes you from the historic village of Corfe Castle and along the Purbeck Ridge to Ballard Down. You then follow the South West Coast Path into Swanage. Why not stop at the beach or a tearooms before catching a steam train from Swanage Railway or bus back to Corfe Castle? During the summer, Ballard Down is one of the best sites in Britain to see several species of blue butterfly, including the Adonis blue.
Lambert's Castle
Starting at Lambert’s Castle (owned and managed by the National Trust) this 3 mile walk explores the Iron Age hill fort there. With stunning views of the Marshwood Vale, why not stop for a picnic? The walk then takes you through Fishpond and the landscape that inspired Lucien Pissaro.
Lyme Regis undercliff
A challenging but rewarding 7 mile walk from Seaton in Devon to Lyme Regis which takes you through the Lyme Regis undercliff as described in John Fowles’ book The French Lieutenants Woman. This area of landslides and tumbled coastline feels so wild you would not be surprised to glimpse a pterodactyl here! Walk one way and catch the bus back. Lyme Regis was home to the famous fossil collector Mary Anning – why not look round the fossil shops or town museum when you have finished your walk, or enjoy a Dorset cream tea?
Worth Matravers and Dancing Ledge
See the landscape which inspired Charles Rennie Mackintosh along this 5 mile walk which starts at Worth Matravers. The route takes in the stunning Purbeck limestone coast between Seacombe and Dancing Ledge, used for quarrying. The return route follows the historic Priests Way. Why not visit Worth Matravers Tea and Supper Room at the end of your walk for a famous Dorset cream tea?
Cerne Abbas
The Cerne Abbas Giant is world famous and its origin is the subject of much speculation! This short 2.5 mile walk can be combined with exploring Cerne Abbas village. You can view the giant and the artworks featured in the Drawing Inspiration Walk Leaflet from the Cerne Giant viewing area.
Hodd Hill
Have you only got an hour to spare but want a stunning view across Dorset? This one mile walk takes around 30-40 minutes with some hilly terrain, but you will want to linger longer and enjoy the views of the countryside. This National Trust owned site has deep ramparts which date back to the Iron Age and a Roman fort. The chalk downland supports spectacular flowers and butterflies and Hodd Hill overlooks the River Stour.
Portland Bill
Starting from the car park near the Portland Bill lighthouse, this 3.3 mile walk is easy with few stretches of ascent and descent. It is a great way to see the fascinating landscape of Portland Bill associated with quarrying. The Portland Race led to many ships being wrecked over the centuries, and the towers of three lighthouses can still be seen here. This is a birdwatchers paradise, particularly during spring and autumn migration.
Studland and Agglestone
Dorset is famous for its heathland, why not explore it for yourself? This 3 mile walk starts at Studland Middle Beach and goes through Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve. Local legend has it that the Devil threw the Agglestone rock from the Isle of Wight with the intention of hitting Corfe Castle! Finish your walk with a swim in the sea, sunbathe on the long, sandy beach at Studland, have a go at water sports or relax in the café.
Golden Cap
If you want to ascend the highest point on the south coast of Britain, this is the walk for you! Starting at Highlands End Holiday Park, this 4.5 mile walk takes in the 191 metre high Golden Cap summit, named after the golden greensand rock which can be seen from afar.
Cranborne
A circular route starting at Cranborne, this 5 mile walk overlooks the ridges of Cranborne Chase and takes in farmland tracks, wooded footpaths and quiet lanes.