Exploring Dorset’s Winter Wonders
Exploring Dorset’s Winter Wonders
Breath-taking frosty landscapes, chocolate-box villages with thatched cottages, traditional pubs with crackling fires and a packed schedule of family-friendly events, Dorset is a magical place to be at this time of year. We’ve put together this handy guide of coastal and countryside winter walks, cosy pubs to escape the chill, and events at beautiful Dorset must-visit destinations. Make sure you save it to your bookmarks!
Winter Walks in Dorset
Hardy's Monument and Black Down – Weymouth
Begin at Hardy's Monument, a historic landmark that towers over the village of Portesham, near Weymouth. Walk to Black Down, the highest point in Dorset, for stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. This walk offers a mix of heathland and woodland, with the chance to see local winter wildlife.
Langton Herring – Weymouth
Enjoy a peaceful coastal walk with views of the Fleet Lagoon and Chesil Beach. Winter often brings dramatic skies and birdwatching opportunities, with migratory species gracing the coastline.
Langdon Hill – West Dorset
Make the most of the beautiful seasonal colours with a woodland stroll at Langdon Hill on the Golden Cap estate in west Dorset. Rich in wildlife with glorious coastal and countryside views, you may see buzzards and ravens soaring overhead. Not far from Bridport, you could explore the town after your walk and shop for last minute Christmas gifts.
Storridge Hill – Beaminster
Starting from Beaminster’s charming market square, there’s a fantastic choice of pubs and restaurants to fuel up in after your walk. On your way, you can head past St Mary’s Church and at the hill’s highest point, admire breath-taking views of the west Dorset countryside, stretching to Lyme Regis and the sea.
Holes Bay Nature Park – Poole
The waterway, surrounding woodland and local wildlife make the park an idyllic place for a winter wander. Accessible via the paved cycle and walking route that connects Poole town centre and Upton Country Park, you can see swans, ducks, geese and more. There are various routes around the park – the most popular is the 5.5-mile circular walk.
Hengistbury Head and Mudeford Spit – Christchurch
Start at Hengistbury Head and take in views of Christchurch Harbour. Follow the path to Mudeford Spit, a stunning stretch of sand with rows of beach huts and views of the Isle of Wight and The Needles. This area is usually very busy in warmer months, so winter provides a great opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and scenic walk.
Stephen's Castle Nature Reserve – Verwood
If you’re looking for an easier walk for a blast of fresh air, head to Verwood and wander through Stephen’s Castle, a heathland nature reserve, home to a variety of rare plants and animals. Keep an eye out for Dartford warblers along the 1.2-mile route. The 'castle' is an Iron Age barrow at the top of an old sand and gravel quarry.
Remember to check local walking guides, weather conditions and any specific trail information before embarking on your winter walks in Dorset. Additionally, some paths may be muddy or icy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Cosy Pubs
There is a great choice of pubs near the above areas to warm your cockles after a bracing walk, but here are a few of our recommendations dotted around the county.
The Springhead, Sutton Poyntz: just a short drive from Weymouth, The Springhead has a log burning stove and traditional entertainment to enjoy throughout the colder months. There’s even a play area at the back of the pub and a duck pond opposite. Located in the pretty village of Sutton Poyntz, there are a variety of scenic walking trails to explore from here.
The Willett Arms, Wimborne: a stylish pub with an inviting atmosphere, a roaring fire and relaxed dining experience with fresh dishes served daily.
The Old Inn, Holt: an old, charming and traditional English pub with open fires, cushioned seats, cosy cabins and hearty meals.
The Royal Oak, Blandford: this family-owned business was awarded Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice 2022. Stay toasty by the open fire while digging into traditional pub grub or the popular Sunday carvery.
Check out our blog ‘10 cosy Dorset pubs to enjoy this Winter’ for more recommendations.
Winter Events in Beautiful Dorset Landscapes
Corfe Castle has a packed diary of winter activities this year, including a storytelling tour featuring real Victorian tales with a twist, fire pits with toasted marshmallows and a wishing bridge. On Saturday 2nd December, the night of the village light switch on, you can explore the castle ruins under the stars and magical festoon lights. On Winter Solstice, watching the sun rise over East Hill from the top of the castle would certainly be an unforgettable experience.
Head to Upton Country Park with the family to explore its festive adventure trail (selected dates from 9th December). Kids can look out for fairytale characters along the way and warm up by the fire with hot drinks and marshmallows to toast at the Christmas Tree Finale.
On 21st December, you can join the National Trust for a morning walk to watch the sunrise from Old Harry Rocks on the shortest day of the year. Following the walk, you can tuck into a full English breakfast at Knoll Beach Café.
Until 30th December, you can hop on board The Polar Express at Swanage railway station for a magical journey through the picturesque Purbeck countryside. Join characters from the film and be entertained with singing and dancing. Every passenger receives a hot chocolate, cookie and a present.
To fill your Christmas schedule, read our ‘Festive Fun in Dorset’ blog.
If your Christmas wish is to have Dorset’s breath-taking rural and coastal landscapes on your doorstep all year round, then get in touch and we can get the ball rolling. With nearly 40 years’ experience and six offices across the county, we are best placed to find your dream home in Dorset.
Added: 30th November 2023
