Dorset

Walking holidays in Dorset

Like the mighty dinosaurs that roamed these shores millions of years ago, Jurassic Coast walking holidays are epic in scale. The 96-mile stretch of coastline here contains around 185-million years of history. Fossil-filled beaches, glittering Caribbean-like coves and a collection of enchanting castles have earned this part of Dorset UNESCO World Heritage status.

Take in time-carved landscapes and outdoor adventures

When it comes to unspoilt scenery, the Dorset Coastal Path delivers some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Lulworth Cove offers a bucketful of outdoor activities in and around its glisteningly clear teardrop-shaped lagoon. Try your hand at activities like rock-pooling, kayaking and coasteering, or simply sit back and enjoy an ice cream overlooking this geologically fascinating corner of southwest England.

The otherworldly rock formations don’t end there. Old Harry Rocks is a series of chalk stacks sticking out of Studland Bay that gaze out across the English Channel to the Isle of Wight. Then there’s Durdle Door – a photo-worthy limestone arch carved by centuries of erosion. The beach isn’t bad either. It’s a pleasing sweep of sand and shingle backed by sheer cliffs.

Elsewhere, you can trek the chalk ridge spine of the Purbeck peninsula for north-south views, or follow The Priest’s Way – a section of the South West Coast Path that ends in wildlife-packed Durlston Country Park and Nature Reserve.

A heritage-packed holiday

Dorset walking holidays are full of history and heritage. Ride the Swanage steam train to get a feel for the golden age of rail travel or explore the 10th century ruins of Corfe Castle. What was once the site of Edward the Martyr’s grisly murder in 978 – and later a Civil War stronghold for Royalist forces – is now a ghostly shell that stands over the otherwise charming namesake village. To travel further back in time, pay a visit to Dorset Museum where you can see a huge collection of fossils found in the local area. Don’t miss the Weymouth Bay plesiosaur, the remains of the largest marine reptile that ever lived – it’s the best-preserved fossil of its kind, anywhere in the world.