Abbotsbury and Chesil Beach views — National Trust coastal walks in West Dorset
Abbotsbury and Chesil Beach views — National Trust coastal walks in West Dorset
4.8
(33)
163
hikers
Abbotsbury and Chesil Beach views — National Trust coastal walks in West Dorset
03:01
10.6km
230m
Hiking
This marvellous 7-mile (11 km) route has beach, hilltops, panoramic views and peaceful trails. It begins on the beach at Abbotsbury and takes you to the historic village itself before leading you up the ridge, showering you in fantastic views of Chesil Beach and Portland. Discover the Iron Age hillfort before descending and returning back to the start along the beach path.
1) Start at the Beach Car Park to the west of Abbotsbury and follow the stretch of the South West Coast Path first to the south east and then up towards Abbotsbury. Leave it when it takes a switchback and instead walk into the village.
2) Hike through Abbotsbury to Back Street and take the bridleway that leads north between two stunning thatched cottages. It almost immediately turns north west, and takes you steadily uphill to the top of the ridge.
3) When you reach the top, you’ll have exceptional views south to Chesil Beach. Follow the ridge westerwards to reach Abbotsbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort.
4) Shortly after, the path splits, one going straight on and one turning downhill. Head downhill and follow the trail over farmland to the beach.
5) Turn left at the beach and follow the tarmac path all the way back to the start.
by National Trust North and West Dorset
Last updated: July 24, 2024
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
152 m
Chesil Beach & The Fleet
Highlight • Beach
Whilst it’s a great place to visit, you are strongly advised not to swim here — or even get too close to the shoreline. Even in calm conditions large waves can suddenly appear. The shoreline of the beach is very steep and this can result in a very strong undertow, which makes swimming dangerous.
Tip by
2.19 km
St Catherine's Chapel, Abbotsbury
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
10.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.67 km
2.38 km
2.36 km
1.25 km
697 m
242 m
Surfaces
4.82 km
2.04 km
1.99 km
1.27 km
406 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (200 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 21 May
21°C
13°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Comments
February 18, 2022
This marvellous 7-mile (11 km) route has beach, hilltops, panoramic views and peaceful trails. It begins on the beach at Abbotsbury and takes you to the historic village itself before leading you up the ridge, showering you in fantastic views of Chesil Beach and Portland. Discover the Iron Age hillfort
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free