Dorset Walks

Walking written in white text over a photo of a coast path running along the top of a cliff in Dorset with the blue sea to the left.

Welcome to our Dorset Walking Guides page! Discover the best walking routes across Dorset, from scenic coastal paths to charming countryside trails.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, our comprehensive guides offer detailed information on routes, landmarks, and local tips to help you make the most of your walking adventures in this beautiful county. Lace up your boots and start exploring Dorset’s stunning landscapes today!

Dorset Walks Round Ups

Coast Walks

Weymouth to the Smugglers Inn, Osmington Mills – 2.5 miles each way
Scratch Arse Ware and Dancing Ledge – 3.4-mile circular
Dancing Ledge Walk – 5.5-mile circular
Golden Cap Walk – 4 Mile circular
Old Harry Rocks Walk – 4 Mile Circular
Lyme Regis To Charmouth Walk – 5 Mile Circular
Hengistbury Head Walk – 3.7 Mile Easy Circular
Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Walk – 5-mile circular

Countryside & Town Walks

Dorchester River Walk – 2.5 miles
Dorchester Historic Town Centre – 1.8 miles
Cerne Abbas Walk – 2.8 Mile Circular
Hardy Monument to Littlebredy Walk – 9-Mile Circular

All Walking Posts

11 Best Short but Scenic Countryside Walks in Dorset

A local’s guide to the best short, scenic walks in the Dorset countryside – all under 4 miles, and all offering beautiful views!

Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door: Walk, Bus, or Drive

An in-depth guide to how to get from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door by walking, driving, or using public transport – written by a local.

How to Walk from Weymouth to the Smugglers Inn, Osmington Mills

A short coastal walk over the cliffs from Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth to the historic Smugglers Inn pub at Osmington Mills.

9 of the Best Walks in Dorchester

A collection of some of the best walks in Dorchester – from short loops around the town centre to longer trails in the nearby countryside.

Dorchester River Walk: Roman Villa, Town Centre & Frome Valley

Discover Dorchester and the Frome Valley with this short circular river walk from the historic town centre to the River Frome.

Dorchester Walk – Discover the Historic Town Centre

A short circular walk around historic Dorchester – incuding the town centre, Maumbury Rings, and the Ancient Roman Walls…

Scratch Arse Ware and Dancing Ledge Walk: 3.4 Mile Circular

A circular walk route through Scratch Arse Ware to Dancing Ledge – for amazing coastal views on the Isle of Purbeck, Dorset.

Dancing Ledge Walk: 5.5 Mile Circular From Durlston in Swanage

A 5.5 mile circular walk to Dancing Ledge from Durlston Country Park in Swanage – a stunning coastal walk on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset!

Golden Cap Walk – 4 Mile circular from Seatown

This circular Golden Cap walk from Seatown takes you up the highest point on the South Coast, returning through picturesque woodland…

Old Harry Rocks Walk – 4 Mile Circular From Studland

An easy-moderate walk from Studland to Old Harry Rocks and Ballard Down on the Isle of Purbeck. Includes map, route photos and PDF.

Lyme Regis To Charmouth Walk – 5 Mile Circular Route

A lovely walk from Lyme Regis to Charmouth. Climb over the cliffs through peaceful woodland, then fossil-hunt your way back along the beach.

Hengistbury Head Walk – 3.7 Mile Easy Circular

A short, 1.5 hour circular walk around Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Sandbank in Bournemouth for some of the most amazing views in the area!

Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Walk – A Local’s Guide

A local’s guide to the Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door walk – a 5 mile circular that can be shortened to 3 miles (or a 2 mile linear option).

Cerne Abbas Walk – 2.8 Mile Village and Giant Circular

This circular Cerne Abbas walk is a short route taking you up to the famous Giant, around Giant Hill, and past some of the prettiest sites in the village.

Hardy Monument to Littlebredy Walk – 9 Mile Circular

This circular walk from the Hardy Monument to the picturesque village of Littlebredy heads through some of the prettiest countryside near Dorchester.

18 of the Best Springtime Bluebell Woods in Dorset

All the best bluebell woods to visit in Dorset this spring. From ancient forests to hillforts! Plus a map to help you find your nearest bluebell hotspot!

14 of the Best River Walks in Dorset

Some of the best river walks in Dorset to help you enjoy the spectacular countryside. From long distance trails to shorter walks and circulars.

Dorset Coast Walks – 15 Short Walks Under 4 Miles

15 amazing short walks on the Dorset coast, all of them less than two hours. Discover some of the most beautiful coastal walks in the county…