08 South West Coast Path Dorset
Walking the South West Coast Path in Dorset: A Complete Guide
*The South West Coast Path runs 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to
Poole Harbour in Dorset, and many walkers consider the Dorset section
the finest of all. From the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the
wild shores of Purbeck, walking this route offers an intimate encounter
with some of England’s most spectacular coastline.*
The Route Through Dorset
The Dorset section of the Coast Path runs roughly 72 miles from Lyme
Regis to South Haven Point near Poole Harbour. This stretch includes the
entire Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and encompasses an
extraordinary variety of coastal scenery: unstable landslips,
fossil-rich shores, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping beaches.
Most walkers take five to seven days to complete the full Dorset section
at a comfortable pace. The route is well-waymarked with acorn symbols
and is generally well-maintained, though some sections involve steep
climbs and descents that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Section by Section
Lyme Regis to West Bay (10 miles)
This opening section passes through the Undercliffs, a unique landscape
created by massive landslips in the 19th century. The path winds through
dense, almost jungle-like vegetation that has colonized the tumbled
cliffs—an eerie and atmospheric experience. The walking is rough in
places, with no escape routes, so allow plenty of time.
Emerging at Seatown, the route climbs to Golden Cap, at 191 metres the
highest point on the south coast. The views from the summit are among
the finest in Dorset, stretching from Portland Bill to Start Point. The
descent to West Bay passes the dramatic cliffs made famous by
Broadchurch.
West Bay to Abbotsbury (9 miles)
This section follows the cliffs above Chesil Beach, offering bird’s-eye
views of one of Britain’s most remarkable coastal features. The 18-mile
bank of pebbles curves toward Portland, with the Fleet Lagoon trapped
behind it. The path passes through Burton Bradstock before climbing to
the high ground above the beach.
The stretch inland to Abbotsbury offers a change of pace: rolling
farmland, ancient field patterns, and glimpses of the sea. Abbotsbury
itself is worth a lengthy stop for its subtropical gardens, ancient
swannery, and excellent village facilities.
Abbotsbury to Weymouth (12 miles)
From Abbotsbury, the path climbs to St. Catherine’s Chapel with its
magnificent views, then follows the ridge above the Fleet Lagoon. This
is exposed walking with dramatic views but little shelter. The route
eventually descends to the beach at Langton Herring and follows the
shore to Weymouth.
Weymouth offers a rest day opportunity with its traditional seaside
attractions, excellent restaurants, and comfortable accommodation. The
town also serves as a base for exploring the Isle of Portland, though
the Portland section of the coast path is technically a loop rather than
part of the main route.
Weymouth to Lulworth Cove (9 miles)
This section includes some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in
southern England. The route passes through the army ranges at Lulworth,
which are normally open on weekends and school holidays—check the
firing times before setting out.
The path descends to Durdle Door, the iconic limestone arch that graces
a million postcards, before continuing to Lulworth Cove. These are the
signature landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, and the walking is
exhilarating despite the crowds at the honeypot sites.
Lulworth Cove to Worth Matravers (10 miles)
Continuing through the ranges (when open), this section passes the ghost
village of Tyneham, evacuated during World War II and never reoccupied.
The village and its church are preserved as they were left, creating a
poignant memorial to a lost community.
The path emerges onto the spectacular Purbeck coast, passing Kimmeridge
Bay and the rock ledges beloved of fossil hunters. The walking is
dramatic throughout, with the path often clinging to steep hillsides
above crashing waves. Worth Matravers provides a perfect overnight stop
with its famous pub.
Worth Matravers to Swanage (7 miles)
This final Purbeck section includes Dancing Ledge—a natural swimming
pool quarried from the rocks—and the dramatic headland of St.
Aldhelm’s (or St. Alban’s) Head. The tiny Norman chapel at the
headland’s point is one of the most atmospheric spots on the entire
coast path.
The path continues past Durlston Country Park to the Victorian resort of
Swanage, with its restored pier and heritage steam railway. From here,
the route follows the bay to Studland and the Old Harry Rocks that mark
the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast.
Swanage to South Haven Point (5 miles)
The final stretch crosses Studland Heath and follows the magnificent
beach of Studland Bay. The walking is flat after the drama of the
cliffs, but the scenery—golden sand, blue water, views to the Isle of
Wight—provides a fitting finale.
The path ends at South Haven Point, where a chain ferry crosses to
Sandbanks and connects to Bournemouth. Most walkers end their journey
here, though the coast path officially continues through Poole and on to
the Somerset border.
Practical Information
Accommodation along the route ranges from hotels and B&Bs to campsites
and hostels. Booking ahead is essential in summer, particularly at
popular spots like Lulworth and Swanage. Several luggage transfer
services will move your bags between overnight stops.
The path is demanding, with cumulative ascent comparable to climbing
Everest from sea level. Good walking boots, waterproofs, and adequate
fitness are essential. The exposed sections offer no shelter from sun or
rain, so come prepared for all conditions.
Spring and autumn offer the best walking conditions: fewer crowds,
moderate temperatures, and often excellent visibility. Summer brings
reliable weather but significant crowds at honey-pot sites. Winter
walking is possible but challenging, with short days and potentially
difficult conditions.