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Best walking hikes in Dorset
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Best walking hikes in Dorset

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Dorset.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Lulworth Cove, Bat's Head, Butter Rock and Man O' War Beach Loop

Dorset, England · star 4.4 (7) · 10.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 33 min

2

Easy

Bestwall Park and River Frome Loop

Dorset, England · star 5.0 (1) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 12 min

3

Medium

National Trust - Ringstead Bay and Durdle Door Loop

Dorset, England · star 4.0 (1) · 13.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 27 min

4

Easy

Wareham Common via Purbeck Way

Dorset, England · star 4.5 (2) · 3.9 km · Est. 50 min

5

Easy

Little Sea, Studland Hill and Old Harry Rocks Loop

Dorset, England · star 4.0 (3) · 20.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 34 min

6

Easy

Portland Bill Lighthouse and SW Coastal Path Viewing Point

Dorset, England · star 4.7 (7) · 5.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 15 min

7

Easy

Chesil Beach and West Dorset Heritage Coast

Dorset, England · star 4.0 (3) · 32.0 km · Est. 6 hrs 53 min

8

Easy

Bovington, Morenton and Wool Loop

Dorset, England · star 4.5 (4) · 13.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 55 min

9

Medium

Swyre Head and Hounstout Cliff Loop

Dorset, England · star 4.3 (6) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 27 min

10

Medium

Walk around Eggardon Hill Fort

Dorset, England · star 4.0 (2) · 3.7 km · Est. 1 hrs

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for walking hikes in Dorset

Ian Mapp avatar

Lulworth Cove, Bat's Head, Butter Rock and Man O' War Beach Loop

Ian Mapp · reviewed about 2 months ago

star star star star star

Antony Thomson avatar

Bestwall Park and River Frome Loop

Antony · reviewed 3 months ago

star star star star star

Tyra Flatley avatar

National Trust - Ringstead Bay and Durdle Door Loop

CanyonFjordfinder48 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Vickie Schmitt avatar

Wareham Common via Purbeck Way

ExplorerFinder28 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Refugia Boehm avatar

Little Sea, Studland Hill and Old Harry Rocks Loop

PebbleLedgehopper54 · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Dorset

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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