8 Amazing Walking Adventures in Dorset

Friday, 24 June 2022

Sweeping ocean views, rolling green hills, rugged coastal headlands, and a rich history are just some of the reasons to come to Dorset. Tucked away in the southwest of England, this quaint region is known for its picturesque scenery and hospitable people.

Dramatic coastal terrain is one of the main draws of this region; however, there is so much more to experience when visiting Dorset. Over half of the region falls under the classification of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), meaning there is always something to do or see around every corner. Become enchanted by the history of the 12th Century Forde Abbey and the cheeky Cerne Abbas Giant, or explore the iconic chalk headlands and limestone arches that characterise the landscape here, the choice is yours.

Whether you are looking to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Jurassic Coast, stroll through charming villages, or simply breathe the crisp air of the countryside, there are a number of spectacular Dorset walks that are waiting to be experienced. Read on to find out what our favourite walking adventures are in the Dorset area:

1. Bulbarrow Hill Circular Walk | 16.6km | 471m | 5h

This lovely – if a bit long – walking route will take you around Bulbarrow Hill for gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Take in the agricultural beauty of the landscape here, as you meander along the trail and watch the livestock grazer out in the pasture.

2. Delcombe Woodlands Circular Walk | 14.8km | 469m | 4.5h

A charming Dorset walk, this trail will take you through a variety of terrain, including open countryside, serene woodlands, and a picturesque little village. Be prepared for a small amount of bushwhacking, as some sections can be a bit overgrown – but that’s all part of the fun, right?!

3. Okeford Hill to Blandford Forest | 5.5km | 119m | 1.5h

A bit of a shorter adventure compared to the previous two walks, this route will take you through peaceful woodlands and open fields. As the route begins at the top of Okeford Hill, there won’t be much in the way of uphill walking, which makes for a pleasant adventure the entire family can enjoy.

4. Turnworth and the Wessex Ridgeway Walk | 7.1km | 176m | 2h

Explore the Dorset Downs on this slightly strenuous route that offers beautifully scenic views. Along the trail, you will stroll through open pastures, explore the quaint village of Turnworth, and traverse a portion of the Wessex Ridgeway.

5. Lower Ansty and Higher Melcombe Short Circular Walk | 5.3km | 140m | 1.5h

A quick and relatively easy excursion near the villages of Lower Antsy and Melcombe Bingham, this family-friendly route provides some truly quintessential views of the English countryside that are hard to beat.

6. Lower Ansty and Higher Melcombe Circular Walk | 12.6km | 425m | 4h

This walk shares plenty of similarities with the one above – hence the name –with the exception that the loop extends further south and east. Enjoy an even greater selection of picturesque Dorset Views on this intermediate-length adventure.

7. Piddle Inn Circular Walk | 8.5km | 245m | 2.5h

If you find yourself visiting the charming village of Piddletrenthide, then you might be looking for a quick adventure that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. After making your way through the village – and stopping in at one of the local pubs for a quick pint – you will loop around the countryside through peaceful, open pastures dotted with livestock.

8. Minterne Magna Circular Walk | 8.7km | 288m | 2.5h

Equal parts mysterious and cheeky, the Cerne Abbas Giant hill figure is the prominent landmark that is featured on this moderate-length walk. Lovely villages, sweeping landscape views, and open countryside characterise this fun Dorset adventure.

Planning your Dorset Adventure

Looking to experience a cosy overnight stay in Dorset? The Victorian Barn is an exceptional place to use as a home-base while you explore the surrounding area, and is centrally located to all of the amazing walking routes listed above. Whether you are a solo traveller, have planned a quiet couples escape with your significant other, or are after a larger space to hold a gathering in the countryside (wedding anyone?!), the Victorian Barn is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy all that Dorset has to offer.

Blog brilliantly written by Lukas Savela, 10Adventures.com