Our Recommended Dorset Winter Walks
Our Recommended Dorset Winter Walks
With its crisp coastal air, rugged landscape, magical misty valleys and frosty forests, you can’t beat a winter walk in Dorset with a cosy country pub at the end to thaw out.
It may be tempting to hibernate inside but it’s well worth donning a warm coat and venturing out for these walks:
At this time of year, there are spectacular views of the castle from Corfe Common, with the low winter sunshine glowing through the ruins. There’s a short 1.5 mile walk across the Common and a choice of pubs to enjoy a steaming hot drink at the end, including the traditional Greyhound Pub which features a huge roaring fire.
If you feel up for a bracing country walk with crisp woodland trails, head to Melbury Estate. You may even spot fallow, red and sika deer. With its flagstone floors, low beamed ceiling and blazing fire, the 16th century Acorn Inn is straight out of the Harry Potter films (not literally!) and the perfect place to relax post winter adventure. It even has rooms named after characters and settings from Thomas Hardy’s famous novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles.
Wareham
With the Two Rivers Walks and its large forest brimming with wildlife, including Sika deer, Wareham is a very popular Dorset location for walking. The forest’s two-mile Woodlark Trail is a circular route with good surfaces and gentle hills, ideal for the whole family. Grab a hot drink from the pop-up café on your way round.
The Two Rivers Walks are two circular walks that start at Wareham Quay and follow the banks of the River Piddle and Frome through Wareham Common and the saltmarshes, reedbeds and mudflats of Poole Harbour. In winter, you’ll see flocks of migrant wetland birds visiting the reserve and meadows and don’t miss the glorious sunsets blazing across the water.
At the quay there’s a variety of pubs and restaurants to put your feet up and warm your cockles.
Piddle Valley
Piddle Valley’s rolling hills and sweeping views are breath-taking in winter and you may be treated to deer sightings and buzzards soaring overhead. There are plenty of peaceful paths and bridleways to explore, including a 5.5-mile loop, or you can have a short wander around the village, admiring the pretty thatched cottages, quaint church and trickling brooks. Finish your day at the 18th century Thimble Inn with its open fires and antique furniture.
Fancy a challenge? Try an exhilarating hike up Golden Cap, one of the most iconic spots along the Jurassic Coast. At 627ft, it’s the highest point on the south coast and if you successfully reach the summit on a clear, crisp day you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of the dramatic coastal landscape. On your descent, relax with a craft ale or warming drink by the cosy fire at the Anchor Inn. You’ve earnt it!
Hampton Hill
With frosty woodland and misty downs, this 5.5-mile route is perfect for marvelling at Dorset’s stunning landscape. Stroll past country estates and explore the site of a Roman dam and reservoir. At the Saxon Arms in nearby Stratton, you can treat yourself to real ale and a hearty meal.
This stunning coastal landmark is one of the most famous in Dorset and is usually very popular with tourists. In winter, the area is much quieter and on the 3.5-mile circular walk you can breathe in the invigorating sea air whilst admiring the dazzling panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast. Look closely and you may even spot peregrine falcons swooping across the sky.
Have fun and remember to be careful when driving and walking if it has recently snowed or the roads and paths are icy.
Added: 22nd December 2021
