Chickerell Fleet Lagoon Circular — Dorset

The Chickerell Fleet Lagoon Circular offers an easy hiking experience through diverse Dorset landscapes. You'll enjoy excellent views of the expansive Fleet Lagoon, a significant natural feature, and catch glimpses of the famous Chesil Beach, a long shingle barrier. This easy route covers 4.2 miles (6.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 302 feet (92 metres), taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. Expect a mix of coastal paths, grassy tracks, and woodland trails, with some sections potentially uneven or muddy after rain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is considered dog-friendly and accessible via public transport, with a convenient starting point at the Meadow Close bus stop in Chickerell. The paths are generally well-maintained, making it suitable for most fitness levels. While no specific warnings are noted, be mindful that some sections might be less even after wet weather.

This circular route is part of a network of trails highlighting the unique environment of the area, including sections of the South West Coast Path. You can observe rich wildlife, especially during spring when the lagoon is luminous with overwintering wildfowl, waterbirds, and spring migrants like the Abbotsbury swans. The trail also passes by the ancient village of East Fleet and its historic Old Church, rebuilt after the Great Storm of 1824.