Learn more about the Isle of Purbeck

Walking Routes in Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck

There are many footpaths around Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck. The South Coast walk route passes through the area. An excellent starting place for walks is Durlston Park which is well-signposted from the town centre. Swanage Maps are available in local shops.

The heathland at Studland is also popular for walking and Mountainbiking. The National Trust owns the heathland and most of the surrounding area, so it is always kept clean, and the animals are well-fenced in to stop them from going too far.

If you prefer a longer walk, we can recommend starting at Swanage seafront and following the cliff path to Kimmeridge, then heading inland towards Corfe Castle, then back to Swanage via the Purbeck Hills, which is approximately 20 miles with amazing views from on the top of the Purbeck hills.

We have curated a selection of routes that will take you through beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites. Walking is not only a great way to explore the outdoors, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Regular walking can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, and boost overall well-being. It's also a great way to get some fresh air, reduce stress and is a low impact form of exercise, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. So grab your walking shoes, a friend or your favourite podcast, and let's hit the trails!

Isle of Purbeck Walking Routes

Map for Studland Walk

Studland Village Walk

Exploring the paths and village of Studland in the Isle of Purbeck.

Map for Corfe Castle Walk

Corfe Castle Walk

A walk around Corfe Castle and Norden station.

Map for Corfe Castle West Hill Walk

Corfe Castle West Hill Walk

A hilly walk around the Purbeck Hills to the west of Corfe Castle.

Map for Hartland Moor Walk

Hartland Moor Walk

An easy flat walk around Hartland Moor near the Arne nature reserve with views over Poole Harbour and across to Corfe Castle.

Map for Norden to Scotland Heath Walk

Norden to Scotland Heath Walk

An easy level walk around the heathland at Norden and Scotland heath.

Map for Kilwood Nature Reserve Walk

Kilwood Nature Reserve Walk

This is a hilly 2.5-mile walk exploring the north side of the Purbeck hills between Norden and Creech.

Map for Studland Village to Agglestone Rock Walk

Studland Village to Agglestone Rock Walk

A 2.9-mile walk exploring Studland Heath and Agglestone Rock.

Map for St Aldhelms Head Walk

St Aldhelms Head Walk

A 3-mile walk exploring the coast path above Chapmans Pool to St Aldhelms Head with views along the Jurassic Coast.

Map for Chapmans Pool to Houns Tout

Chapmans Pool to Houns Tout

A hilly 3.5-mile walk along good tracks with stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.

Map for Hartland Way Walk

Hartland Way Walk

A flat 3.6-mile walk along good tracks following parts of the Hartland Way walk along disused clay mining railway lines.

Map for Durlston to Priest Way Walk

Durlston to Priest Way Walk

This is a 4-mile walk around Durlston Country Park and the Townsend Nature Reserve which crosses part of Priests Way. The walk offers stunning views over the Isle of Purbeck, the Jurassic Coast, and the Isle of Wight.

Map for The Obelisk Walk

The Obelisk Walk

A walk with some steep hills and steps giving you stunning views over Swanage, Studland and Poole Harbour from the Purbeck Hills.

Map for Durlston to Dancing Ledge Walk

Durlston to Dancing Ledge Walk

A walk from Durlston Country Park to Dancing Ledge along the upper path and returns via Priests Way and Townsend nature reserve. The walk offers stunning views over the Isle of Purbeck and the Jurassic Coast.

Studland To the Obelisk and Old Harry Walk

Studland To the Obelisk and Old Harry Walk

A walk starting at Studland and walking across the edge of the heathland, heading across the golf course and returning via Ballard Down and Old Harry Rocks.

South West Coast Path Walk

South West Coast Path Swanage to Sandbanks Ferry

A walk from Swanage to the Sandbanks chain ferry via Studland Beach following the South West Coast path.

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