Hikes in Dorset

Coastal landscapes made up of limestone arches and chalk headlands are what awaits on an exciting walking adventure in the picturesque county of Dorset in the southwest of England. With three quarters of the shoreline being made up of the 185 million year old Jurassic Coast, you will have plenty of opportunities to traverse the rugged coastal terrain along the English Channel and explore the rich geological history of the region through its many impressive landmarks.

When you aren’t walking along the coast and visiting popular sites like the impressive Durdle Door and scenic Lulworth Cove, you will have the opportunity to explore the rolling landscape of the interior of Dorset, over half of which is designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Furthermore, there are countless historical and cultural sites to experience in the county, with the 12th Century Forde Abbey and the cheeky hill figure known as the Cerne Abbas Giant being popular destinations for visitors to the area.

While the terrain in Dorset may be varied, and in some instances quite challenging, there are a plentiful amount of walking routes to suit every age and skill level. So whether you are a beginner walker looking for a low-lying riverside adventure or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast wanting to tackle the rugged terrain along the Jurassic Coast, you will find that Dorset has all that you need for an unforgettable walking excursion in the southwest of England.

What’s New in 2026

• The dramatic coast path between Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge crosses the Lulworth army firing ranges, and this stretch is part of the Lulworth Cove to Swanage and Flowers Barrow walks. The ranges are open to walkers on most weekends, school holidays and through August, but close for live firing on many weekdays, when red flags fly and the gates are locked. This is the one section of the coast path with no easy diversion, so always check the published firing times before you set out.
• Most of the Dorset coast follows the South West Coast Path along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are no entry fees, and public rights of way and open-access land let you walk the cliffs and downs freely.
• The honeypots at Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door get very busy in summer, with paid car parks that fill by mid-morning. Arrive early or visit in the shoulder seasons, and note that many coastal walks are linear, so plan the bus or train back before you go.
• Dorset walks are good year-round, but the cliffs are exposed and can be windy and slippery after rain, so bring proper footwear and a windproof layer. Most people walk Dorset independently, though self-guided and guided walking holidays are available if you would rather have the logistics handled.

The Best Walks in Dorset

From the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the chalk downs and quiet villages inland, these are some of the best walks in Dorset. They range from short, easy coast strolls to full multi-day sections of the South West Coast Path.

• Lulworth Cove to Swanage: the classic 32.5 km section of the South West Coast Path over the folded cliffs between Lulworth Cove and Swanage, often split across two days. It crosses the Lulworth firing ranges, so check the range opening times before planning it.
• Old Harry Rocks via Coast Path: a coastal walk to the chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, passing Studland beach on the way into Swanage.
• Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door and Ringstead Bay: links the coast’s two most famous landmarks, Lulworth Cove and the Durdle Door sea arch, then climbs west to the old lookout above Ringstead Bay.
• Isle of Portland Circular: a circular walk around the tied island of Portland to the lighthouse at Portland Bill, with wide views across the English Channel and mostly easy going.
• Golden Cap: a climb to the summit of Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast of England, for sweeping views along the Jurassic Coast.
• Corfe Castle to Swanage: follows the Purbeck Ridge from the ruins of Corfe Castle to Swanage, with the option of returning on the Swanage Heritage Railway.
• West Bay to Weymouth: a long but low-level coast walk past Chesil Beach from West Bay to Weymouth, easy underfoot despite the distance.
• Minterne Magna Loop: an inland loop past the Cerne Abbas Giant chalk hill figure and through a string of quiet Dorset villages.
• Lulworth Cove to Flowers Barrow Circular: a short but steep circular walk to the Iron Age hillfort of Flowers Barrow above Lulworth Cove. It sits inside the firing ranges, so check opening times.
• Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse: an easy coastal walk from Durlston Country Park past the Victorian lighthouse at Anvil Point, good for families.

When Is The Best Time to Walk in Dorset?

Dorset is walkable all year, but late spring and early autumn give the best mix of settled weather, wildflowers or turning colour, and quieter paths. Summer is the warmest and busiest time, especially around Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and the Isle of Portland, so start early to beat the crowds and the car-park queues. Winter walks are quiet and atmospheric, but the coast is exposed, and cliff-top paths can be muddy and slippery after rain, so check the forecast and wear proper footwear.

Plan Your Trip

Dorset is one of the finest counties for walks in England, part of our wider collection of walking regions across the UK. If you would rather have the logistics handled, browse our self-guided and guided walking holidays in England.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walking in Dorset

Do you need to check firing times for the Lulworth Ranges?

Yes. The South West Coast Path between Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge crosses the Lulworth army firing ranges, which affects the Lulworth Cove to Swanage and Flowers Barrow walks. The ranges are open to walkers on most weekends, school holidays and through August, but close for live firing on many weekdays, when red flags fly and the gates are locked. There is no easy diversion on this stretch, so check the published firing times and plan to cross when the range is open.

What are the best circular walks in Dorset?

Good circular options include the Isle of Portland circular around Portland Bill, the Melbury Downs circular over the chalk downs, the short but steep Lulworth Cove to Flowers Barrow loop on the coast, and the Minterne Magna loop past the Cerne Abbas Giant. Between them they cover the coast, the downs and the villages of inland Dorset.