The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Purbeck

Embark on the Durdle Door, White Nothe & Hambury Tout loop, a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) hike that takes you along England's dramatic Jurassic Coast. You will gain 1247 feet (380 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes, encountering undulating terrain with numerous ascents and descents. The route offers striking coastal views, including the famous natural limestone arch of Durdle Door, and panoramic vistas of the Dorset Coast from Hambury Tout.

This trail starts from Lulworth Cove Heritage Centre, providing a convenient base for your adventure. Be prepared for a mix of surfaces, as some sections are paved, but you will also navigate unpaved, gravel, and natural footpaths, including steep parts. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider hiking during the off-season or on a weekday, as the section leading to Durdle Door can become quite busy, especially in fine summer weather.

As you hike, you will journey through millions of years of geological history, with visible rock layers and formations revealing the ancient story of this coastline. The path to White Nothe provides excellent retrospective views back towards Durdle Door, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the natural arch from a different perspective. This route is a prime example of the unique geological heritage found along the Jurassic Coast.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the iconic Jurassic Coast, where you'll discover the dramatic natural arch of Durdle Door and the perfectly formed horseshoe of Lulworth Cove. This route, spanning 4.9 miles (7.9 km), offers stunning coastal views with towering white limestone cliffs and golden shingle beaches. You will gain 702 feet (214 metres) in elevation, making for a rewarding journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete. The path provides a consistent display of the English Channel's turquoise waters.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the overall difficulty is easy, you will encounter some steep sections, especially the climb from Lulworth Cove towards Hambury Tout. It is advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots, as parts of the trail can become muddy, particularly after rainfall. Parking is conveniently located near Lulworth Cove, offering straightforward access to the start of your hike.

This trail is a highlight of England's Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, renowned for its significant geological formations. You will experience the unique natural beauty of this coastline, shaped over millions of years. The route showcases the striking contrast between ancient geology and vibrant marine landscapes, making it a memorable experience for anyone exploring this historic region.

Embark on a moderate 9.5-mile (15.3 km) hike around Kimmeridge Bay and Clavell Tower, offering dramatic coastal views and varied terrain. This route involves 906 feet (276 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 4 hours and 16 minutes to complete. You will traverse natural paths, asphalt, gravel, and unpaved sections, including some steep ascents and descents, especially along the South West Coast Path. Look out for the iconic Clavell Tower, a Grade II listed folly perched dramatically above Kimmeridge Bay, providing a stunning visual landmark. From high points like Swyre Head, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Jurassic Coast, including Corfe Castle and the Isle of Portland. The trail also winds through woodlands and pastures, offering a diverse walking experience.

Before you set out, be aware that some sections can be narrow and rough, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. The trail is accessible for much of its length, but prepare for the

The Old Harry Rocks and Ballard Down Circular offers a moderate hiking experience along the dramatic Jurassic Coast. You will discover exceptional panoramic views throughout this 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route, which includes a total elevation gain of 716 feet (218 metres). Expect varied terrain underfoot, from uneven dirt and loose-stone paths to grassy tracks, as you make your way to the iconic Old Harry Rocks and across Ballard Down. This hike, typically completed in about 3 hours and 30 minutes, provides a wonderful opportunity to spot wildflowers on the chalk grasslands and various seabirds along the cliffs.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features moderate inclines and one steep descent, so comfortable footwear is essential. If you choose to hike during winter, you should be prepared for potential muddy patches along the route, which can make some sections more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before you set out, as coastal paths can be exposed to strong winds and sudden changes in weather.

This route is particularly notable for its geological features, showcasing the dramatic chalk formations of Old Harry Rocks at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. From Ballard Down, you will be treated to expansive vistas that stretch across Swanage Bay and Studland, and on clear days, you might even glimpse the distant Isle of Wight. It is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique coastal landscape of the Isle of Purbeck.