Top 10 Walks In Dorset

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in dorset
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Dorset, located in the southwest of England, is a county celebrated for its stunning coastline, rolling countryside, and rich history.

The world-famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches along its shores, offering dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and fascinating fossils that draw visitors from around the globe. This natural wonder is a haven for walkers, with trails leading to iconic landmarks like Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks, and Golden Cap.

The county’s diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches and sprawling heathlands, make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond its coastal beauty, Dorset’s inland areas boast a wealth of picturesque villages, ancient woodlands, and historic sites. Walkers can explore the charming countryside immortalized in the works of Thomas Hardy, with trails that wind through lush valleys, quaint villages, and rolling hills.

The county is also home to fascinating historical landmarks, such as the Cerne Abbas Giant and Corfe Castle, each offering a glimpse into Dorset’s past.

Whether you’re seeking coastal adventures, peaceful countryside rambles, or a mix of both, Dorset provides an abundance of opportunities to connect with nature and history.

The Top 10 Walks In Dorset

1. Jurassic Coast Walk (Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door)

  • Start/End Point: Lulworth Cove Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, chalk paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Durdle Door

This iconic coastal walk offers stunning views of Dorset’s UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, taking in the natural beauty of Lulworth Cove and the famous limestone arch of Durdle Door.

2. Golden Cap Walk

  • Start/End Point: Seatown Car Park
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, steep climbs
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Golden Cap

Climb the highest point on England’s south coast, Golden Cap, for spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast and beyond.

3. Old Harry Rocks Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Studland National Trust Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, flat paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Old Harry Rocks

A walk to the iconic chalk sea stacks of Old Harry Rocks, offering breathtaking views over Poole Harbour and the Purbeck coastline.

4. Chesil Beach Walk

  • Start/End Point: Abbotsbury to West Bexington
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Pebble beach, coastal paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Chesil Beach

This unique walk along Chesil Beach features stunning views of the lagoon and is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

5. Cerne Abbas Giant Walk

  • Start/End Point: Cerne Abbas Village Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Rolling hills, grass paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Cerne Abbas Giant

Explore the charming village of Cerne Abbas and enjoy views of the famous chalk figure of the Cerne Abbas Giant etched into the hillside.

6. Durlston Country Park and Anvil Point Walk

  • Start/End Point: Durlston Country Park Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal cliffs, rugged paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Anvil Point Lighthouse

Discover Dorset’s rich wildlife and geology on this scenic walk, which includes dramatic coastal cliffs and a visit to the historic Anvil Point Lighthouse.

7. Hambledon Hill Walk

  • Start/End Point: Child Okeford Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Hills, grassy paths
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Hambledon Hill

A walk up the Iron Age hillfort of Hambledon Hill, offering panoramic views of the Blackmore Vale and beyond.

8. Corfe Castle and Purbeck Ridge Walk

  • Start/End Point: Corfe Castle Car Park
  • Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km)
  • Terrain: Hills, grassy ridges
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Corfe Castle

A picturesque walk along the Purbeck Ridge with stunning views of the Dorset countryside, culminating in the historic ruins of Corfe Castle.

9. Hardy’s Cottage Walk

  • Start/End Point: Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, fields
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Hardy’s Cottage

Follow in the footsteps of author Thomas Hardy on this tranquil woodland walk, visiting his birthplace and the beautiful Puddletown Forest.

10. Weymouth to Portland Bill Walk

  • Start/End Point: Weymouth Esplanade to Portland Bill Lighthouse
  • Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, rocky trails
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Portland Bill Lighthouse

A coastal adventure that takes you from Weymouth’s bustling seafront to the dramatic and rugged Portland Bill Lighthouse, with stunning sea views throughout.

Summary – Top 10 Walks in Dorset

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Dorset. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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