The best walks in Dorset for 2023

A 1,024 square mile area of coves, castle ruins and dramatic coastline make Dorset a UK hotspot for an active staycation on England’s southern shores.

The diverse landscape of the British county includes Christchurch, Purbeck, Weymouth and Bournemouth, and the area has become known for its iconic rock formations from Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove.

England’s only natural Unesco World Heritage Site, the famous Jurassic Coast, stretches from Studland Bay to Exmouth in Devon and offers charming seaside villages, beaches littered with fossils and a vast space for long walks.

With over 3,000 miles of trails and paths, the rolling rural hills and country lanes beg to be explored on foot as post-card towns and cosy pubs link bridleways and byways – and don’t worry, signposts, maps and tours are available to guide you along the way.

Here’s The Independent’s selection of simple strolls, challenging hikes and winding walking routes to accompany quaint stays on a Dorset walking holiday.

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Golden Cap Walk, Seatown

Starting short and simple, the famous South West Coast Path, the UK’s longest National Trail, connects Seatown to Golden Cap, the highest point on England’s south coast and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This four-mile circular walk combines a steep climb with stunning views of Charmouth and Chesil Beach and ancient woodland on Langdon Hill. Beginning and ending in Seatown car park, return inland past the historic ruins of the 13th century St Gabriel’s Chapel on the National Trust estate in Bridport.

The Golden Cap walk takes on average just over two hours to complete and, while the multi-terrain can be challenging, this is a strong and easy-to-follow choice of coastal walk for families that is also perfectly situated for some post-climb pub grub in the Anchor Inn at Seatown.

Where to stay

Copse Gate Farm is a charming B&B set in Bridport, 4.2 miles from Golden Cap. Rooms feature countryside views and private bathrooms on the working farm with cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens.