The Best Walks in Dorset

 

Dorset is arguable the UK’s most en-vogue location at the moment. Celebrity chefs, Broadchurch, dramatic gorgeous coast and new hotels have all contributed to what has been a slow-burn into the minds of the British Holidaying public.

Dorset is home to some unique geology and natural habitats, including the Jurassic coast, England's only natural world heritage site. We asked the local National Trust rangers for their favourite walks on and around this dramatic coastline

It’s the dramatic Jurassic coast line that make walking such a joy in the county.

Corfe Castle

Distance: 1.5 miles

The town of Corfe is lovely. Small and quaint with what has to be one of the most photographed castle in the UK. Rumour has it that the castle was the inspiration for Kirrin Castle in Enid Blyton’s Famous Five books.

Download the walk from the National Trust.

Burton Bradstock

Distance 1 mile

This has to be my favourite spot in the whole of Dorset. This location along with West Bay has now become synonymous with Broadchurch. Those cliffs are just amazing.

The best spot to start is The Hive Beach Café. Recently frequented by Mark Owen of Take That have an amazing selection of local sourced and made food and drink.

Chesil beach

Distance 5.7 miles

I remember learning about Chesil Beach in a Geography more years ago than I care to remember.  With 18 miles and 18 Billion pebbles (approx) this naturally made lagoon is home of Abbostsburry Swanary.  The home of some 600 swans.

This walk skirts along the coastline without walking the full length of the beach.

Link to Chesil beach and Abbotsbury Walk