Walking in Dorset is an excellent way to truly experience our county. Anyone with a keen passion for walking and wildlife will love the variety on offer here in Dorset; with easy-to-follow walks, short strolls or long-distance trails. Dorset's walking trails are internationally renowned and give you the chance to explore rolling hills, peaceful country lanes, dramatic clifftops and woodland trails.
The county's coast and countryside boasts over 3000 miles of signposted footpaths, bridleways and byways to hike, ramble or stroll. These paths meander and intertwine across Dorset, linking photogenic villages, cosy pubs, lush meadows and rocky coves. Each turning leads to a new adventure…
If you're seeking some local produce during your visit, why not choose a walking route which passes by one of our award winning vineyards, breweries, farm shops or cider farms? And if you're wanting to combine a walk with a bus ride or train trip, choose one of our top 10 walking trails which start or finish at a bus stop or trails by rail.
Top Walking Routes & Trails in Dorset
Dorset walks offer an exceptional mix of awe inspiring coastline, ancient woodland, rolling chalk downlands or secluded river valleys. It makes for a true rambler’s paradise and there are walks of all lengths, for all abilities. With just over half of our landscape designated as National Landscapes, you're assured the perfect backdrop for your walk!
For families, the Rodwell Trail is a level 2 mile walking and cycling route, teeming with wildlife it follows the trackbed of the old Weymouth to Portland Railway.
The Sika Trail is a popular 7 mile circular walking and cycling through Wareham Forest. Stroll through the pine trees and heathland and if you're lucky you might spot a Sika Deer which the trail is named after.
If you’re a seasoned walker and crave the challenge of a long distance hike, we have plenty of trails to keep your step count in check. The Dorset section of the Wessex Ridgeway runs from Ashmore in the north, past ancient hill forts and the Cerne Abbas Giant on its winding way to the coast at Lyme Regis. The Stour Valley Way follows the magnificent River Stour on its journey to Christchurch Harbour.
Coastal Walks in Dorset
The Dorset coast offers a variety of stunning walking routes, featuring dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and picturesque landscapes, perfect for all levels of walkers, and offers up many landmarks that you won't want to miss including Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Golden Cap and Portland Bill
Tread in the footsteps of smugglers along one of the world’s most famous rambles, the South West Coast Path. Enjoy the views along England's longest national trail as you imagine the thrilling tales of smuggling and dastardly deeds made famous by the J. Meade Faulkner novel, Moonfleet.
Dog Friendly Walks in Dorset
There's plenty of dog-friendly walks in Dorset where you can make unforgettable memories with your four-legged friend. From scenic countryside trails to breathtaking coastal paths, Dorset offers miles of walking routes perfect for you and your pooch. Enjoy stunning views, fresh sea air, and plenty of open space to roam.
With so many dog-friendly places to explore, there’s every reason to bring your pet along and experience the best walks Dorset has to offer!
Guided Walks in Dorset
There are many opportunities to join guided Dorset walks and tours are available on a wide variety of themes. Whether you're looking for Nordic walking, a history tour or want to go fossil hunting, we've got the perfect guided tour for you.
If you're feeling brave, you might like to take a guided ghost tour and learn the dark secrets of Dorset’s towns as you tiptoe down narrow streets and alleyways, listening to the stories of historic Dorset residents.
Accessible Dorset Walks
Explore Dorset’s accessible walks and enjoy the county’s stunning countryside without limits. Many routes feature wide, level trails through beautiful woodlands and rolling meadows, making them ideal for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and pushchairs. Along the way, you’ll find rest areas with benches, accessible toilets, and designated parking to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
To enhance accessibility further, some locations offer Braille signage and audio guides for visually impaired visitors. Plus, thanks to Countryside Mobility – a not-for-profit organisation – you can hire electric all-terrain mobility scooters at numerous Dorset attractions. These scooters are designed for rough ground, grass, and mud, helping everyone enjoy the great outdoors.
Walker friendly accommodation
Now we’ve convinced you that Dorset is one of the finest counties in England for walking and walking themed holidays, here are some suggestions for places to stay.
Accommodation in Dorset is plentiful and varied:
Dorset also provides plenty of accommodation that is part of the Walkers Welcome Scheme. These properties offer walkers all the facilities you may require after a long walk in Dorset.
But it's not all about walking
As Dorset is such a fantastic destination at any time of year, we thought it would be a good idea to tell you a little more about what Dorset has to offer!
If you head on over to our things to do, whats on, places to visit and food and drink online guides, you will be able to find out more information about making the most of your visit to Dorset.
Last but not least, on your walking travels, why not drop by to the famous filming location of ITV's smash-hit crime series 'Broadchurch' and see for yourself why its amazing landscape and stunning views played such an integral part in the TV series.
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