Choose park
Check in
Check out
Guests
Check in/out
Guests
Search
16 coastal walks in Dorset you must try
Known and loved for its stunning coastline, Dorset is one of the best locations in the UK for you to experience natural beauty, dramatic scenery, and more. A great way to do this is to embark on one or more Coastal walks in Dorset throughout your holiday.
With these fantastic Dorset coastal walks, you'll stroll along picturesque regions from the iconic Jurassic Coast to hidden gems and coves in the county. Dorset offers a diverse range of trails that cater to all fitness and interests, whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual stroller.
You could take the famous trail from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door or try out the circular walk to find wildlife at Brownsea Island. Either way, these 16 Dorset coastal walks will leave you breathless with their stunning scenery and rich history.
The best Dorset coastal walks
There are many great choices regarding the best coastal walks in Dorset, but we'll make sure we cover some of the best so you have everything you need for an unforgettable break.
Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
Starting our list of coastal walks in Dorset is one of the most iconic choices, the Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door walk. This linear coastal walk takes you along the shores of the Jurassic Coast a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Starting at the picturesque Lulworth Cove, you will see one of the region's nicest beaches before following the South West Coast Path to the world-famous Durdle Door.
Find out moreThis natural limestone arch that leads out to the sea is one of the most famous landmarks along the coast of the UK, and tourists all over the world long to see it in person.
What's more, if you're staying at East Fleet Farm Holiday Park, you'll only be around a 35-minute drive away from this brilliant coastal walk in Dorset.
Distance of walk: 2 miles
Golden Cap
Situated near Bridport, the Golden Cap walk offers panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast from the highest point on the entire south coast of England. At 191 meters above sea level, Golden Cap is a great place to visit with the family, where you can take memorable photos - you'll feel as if you're on top of the world!
Find out moreThe walk provides stunning visuals of the countryside and coastline, so it's a must-visit Dorset coastal walk for those seeking a scenic and invigorating adventure.
Distance of walk: 4 miles
Mudeford Sandbank to Bournemouth Pier
For a more leisurely experience, the Mudeford Sandbank to Bournemouth Pier walk is a perfect choice. Despite being slightly longer, this flat and easy coastal trail takes you along the sandy beaches of Bournemouth - some of the nicest beaches in the UK – with the 2024 Blue Flag Awards too.
Find out moreYou'll get gorgeous views of the English Channel and the opportunity to spot wildlife in the Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve.
Distance of walk: 7 miles
Hive Beach to West Bay
The Hive Beach to West Bay walk is a delightful coastal adventure showcasing Dorset's coastline's rugged beauty. Starting at the iconic Hive beach, you'll navigate some beautiful locations, including the River Bride Footbridge, before reaching West Bay.
Find out moreYou may recognise this location from the famous TV series Broadchurch, so you can turn your walk into an escape into the fictional world of your favourite series. What could be more unique than that for your Dorset holiday?
Distance of walk: 6 miles
Weymouth to Smuggler's Inn
This short but scenic coastal walk in Dorset takes you from the village of Bowleaze to the renowned Smuggler's Inn, a historic pub nestled along the South West Coast Path. This easy-moderate trail offers stunning views of the coastline and ample opportunity to explore new things. For example, this fossil-rich area is a great place for the kids to go hunting for new finds.
Find out moreAlso, the famous Smuggler's Inn dates back to the 13th century, giving you the chance to add some great history to your coastal walks in Dorset.
If you drive from East Fleet Farm Holiday Park, you can reach the start of this walk in about 15 minutes.
Distance of walk: 2.5 miles
Kimmeridge, Kingston and Clavell Tower
Explore the geological wonders and rich history of Dorset on this coastal walk that takes you to Kimmeridge Bay, Kingston, and Clavell Tower. The bay is renowned for its rocky shoreline and unique geological features, while the 19th-century Clavell Tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Find out moreYou'll have the perfect mix of landscapes to explore on your walk. Due to its length and change in terrain, this trail is suited to more active walkers, but it's a must-try if you want to try the best coastal walks in Dorset.
Distance of walk: 9.2 miles
Tyneham Village and Flower's Barrow
Step back on this coastal walk in Dorset, which takes you through the abandoned village of Tyneham, evacuated during World War II. This is a great way to add cultural and historical intrigue to your relaxing walks in Dorset. The trail then leads you along the Jurassic Coast to the secluded and picturesque Flowers Barrow, where you can enjoy stunning views of rare flowers, fungi and insects.
Find out moreYou and your family can take turns spotting as many colourful fauna and flora as you can.
You can also take your four-legged friend along on this route. What's better than exploring this beautiful area with your dog?
Distance of walk: 3.7 miles
Why not try circular coastal walks in Dorset?
While we've explored a mix of our top coastal walks in Dorset, let's now focus on circular walks. After all, they provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's diverse landscapes and hidden gems and return to where you started to head home.
Fleet Lagoon
This easy circular walk takes you around the tranquil Fleet Lagoon, a nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. With its diverse wildlife, including wading birds and waterfowl, this scenic walk in Dorset will expand your knowledge of the animals of our UK coast. If you want a serene and relaxing experience where you can connect with nature, this walk is a great choice.
Find out moreYou can find the entire route here in this leaflet!
Distance of walk: 4 miles
Hengistbury Head
Explore the Hengistbury Head circular walk, where you can experience this Nature Reserve and all it offers. The trail takes you through various habitats, including woodlands, heathlands, and sandy beaches, allowing you to spot all sorts of wildlife that reside in different terrains. Not to mention, you'll have various types of views along the walk.
Find out moreThis is also a relatively short walk, which makes it a great way to relax and explore, especially with young ones.
Distance of walk: 3.7 miles
Old Harry Rocks
If you want to see the beautiful landmark up close, the Old Harry Rocks circular walk offers a unique perspective on one of Dorset's most iconic spots. This moderate trail takes you along the dramatic cliff tops, providing breathtaking views of the striking rock formations – the scenery you'd see in postcards for Dorset, except you get to witness it in person.
Find out moreOn top of that, the walk is only around a 10-minute drive from Swanage Bay View Holiday Park.
Distance of walk: 3.5 miles
Brownsea Island
You can access Brownsea Island via an easy boat ride from Poole and embark on a short, sweet, circular coastal walk around the picturesque island. Along the way, you'll encounter the diverse wildlife that resides on this amazing island, including red squirrels, a variety of bird species, and many more enchanting animals.
Find out moreOf course, you'll also get to see the historic Brownsea Island Castle along the trail.
Distance of walk: 1 mile
Abbotsbury to St Catherine's Chapel
The Abbotsbury to St Catherines Chapel and Chesil Beach circular coastal walk in Dorset combines history, natural beauty, and stunning coastal scenery in one. Starting in the charming village of Abbotsbury, you'll follow the South West Coast Path to the historic St Catherines Chapel and the iconic Chesil Beach before looping back through rolling countryside.
Find out moreKeep an eye out for St Catherine's Chapel, a 14th-century building that will surely add amazement to your walk.
Distance of walk: 3.2 miles
Charmouth to Lyme Regis
Explore the fossil-rich Jurassic Coast with your loved ones as you try out this circular coastal walk that takes you from the quaint village of Charmouth to the picturesque town of Lyme Regis. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to put on your science hats and hunt for fossils, as well as take in the stunning coastal scenery.
Find out moreYou'll also get to see the iconic Cobb Harbour, a huge part of the fishing culture in Dorset.
Distance of walk: 5 miles
Corfe Castle to Kimmeridge, Swyre Head
Another more challenging coastal walk in Dorset is the Corfe Castle to Kimmeridge, Swyre Head, and Kingston circular walk. However, this rewarding walk takes you through some of the region's most iconic landmarks and landscapes.
Find out moreYou'll start in the historic village of Corfe before traversing the Jurassic Coast and passing through Kimmeridge Bay, Swyre Head, and the charming village of Kingston. The Castle is a definite highlight, and it's bound to make you and your family feel like UK royalty from the past!
Distance of walk: 9.3 miles
Portland Bill
Explore the rugged beauty of the Isle of Portland on this circular coastal walk in Dorset, where you'll venture around the iconic Portland Bill lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs and quarries. This fairly short walk will give you every opportunity to spot various seabirds and marine life and enjoy stunning views of the English Channel.
Distance of walk: 3.5 miles
Find out more
Studland and Ballard Down
This circular coastal walk-in Dorset combines the beauty of the Studland Peninsula with the stunning vistas of Ballard Down. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches, chalk downs, and rolling hills of the Dorset countryside.
Find out moreMany of the areas in this walk are protected by the National Trust, so you can explore new wildlife as you feel a deeper connection to nature and its protection today.
Also, if you stay at Swanage Bay View Holiday Park, you can drive to this walk-in area in only 10 minutes.
Distance of walk: 4.5 miles
Coastal walks in Dorset FAQs
If you want even more information about coastal walks in Dorset, here are our most frequently asked questions:
What is the Jurassic Coast walk?
The Jurassic Coast walk is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches along the stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 96-mile trail runs from Old Harry Rocks in Dorset to Exmouth in Devon.
How long does the Jurassic Coast walk take?
The Jurassic Coast walk is typically completed in sections because it is a long-distance trail. However, for those looking to tackle the entire route, it often takes 7-10 days, depending on your fitness level and desired pace.
How long is the Dorset Coastal Path?
The Dorset Coastal Path is a 630-mile long-distance trail that follows the entire coastline of Dorset, from Poole Harbour in the east to Devon in the west. While it's possible to complete the whole trail, many hikers tackle it in sections.
Are you ready to explore the various coastal walks in Dorset?
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, it's undeniable that Dorset's coastline offers a wealth of stunning coastal walks that cater to all interests and abilities. From the iconic Jurassic Coast to hidden gems, each trail promises breathtaking scenery, a dive into Dorset's rich history, and unforgettable experiences.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and embark on one of the most unforgettable holidays exploring coastal walks in Dorset.