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Walking

Sweeping chalk downlands, meandering river valleys, traditional English woodlands and sun-warmed heathland offer a wonderful variety of walks for both enthusiastic ramblers and those seeking a quiet stroll.

Walking in the Rural Dorset countryside

Long Distance Footpaths:

Wessex Ridgeway. 137 miles in total, from Marlborough in Wiltshire all the way to the coast at Lyme Regis, this route follows an ancient highway, once an important trade link. Crossing some of the highest points in Dorset, it also offers many shorter routes in some of the area's most stunning countryside.

Stour Valley Way. This route runs for approximately 60 miles from Christchurch in Dorset to Stourhead in Wiltshire, following the route of the valley of the River Stour.

Avon Valley Path. A 34-mile footpath running along the valley of the River Avon, from Christchurch Priory to Salisbury Cathedral.

The Dorset Jubilee Trail Created in 1995 for the 60th anniversary of the Dorset Area Ramblers’ Associatiog, this 90 mile trail runs from Bockerly Dyke on the north-eastern border and winds through quiet villages, hidden valleys and downland to Forde Abbey on the Dorset/Somerset boundary.

Castleman Trailway. Based on a 16-mile recreational route that follows the old “Castleman Corkscrew” railway line from Ringwood to Upton, near Poole. Parts of the route are also open to cyclists and horse riders.

Circular Walks:

There are a number of local circular walks; leaflets are available either from our Tourist Information Centres or via our brochure request panel (when in stock).