The best dog walks in Dorset

Dorset is absolutely packed with things to set tails wagging – including fresh sea scents to sniff, undulating hills to chase up and forest floors to rootle through. We can’t imagine a more perfect holiday for your dog than exploring the miles upon miles of walks throughout Dorset.

With both the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the South West Coast Path to roam, it can be hard to know where to begin when it comes to finding the perfect Dorset dog walk. 

For more staycation ideas for your pet-friendly holiday, why not read our ultimate dog-friendly guide to Dorset for more staycation inspiration? Also, be sure to sniff out our complete guide to dog walks around the UK, where you'll find wonderful dog walks all over the country. For the ultimate Dorset break browse our collection of pet-friendly accommodation by clicking on the button below. It's the most relaxing way to get to know this beautiful part of England.

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Durdle Door and White Nothe walk | Lulworth Cove

On the Durdle Door and White Nothe walk, your pup can feel the wind through his ears and the salt in his fur on this high coastal path, which is also perfect for burning off excess energy. Plus, kids and the young at heart will be delighted that it passes through Scratchy Bottom! 

This is THE definitive Dorset walk, taking in the famous Durdle Door, so if you’re only going to do one walk in Dorset, make it this one (if your legs are up to it!) This walk starts in Lulworth Cove, where there is parking and toilets, and goes in a circular route along the South West Coast Path where there are abundant views but scarce facilities – so pack a snack and some water (plus some treats for your good boy). There are some steep sections of cliff on the coast path too, so keep an eye on your four-legged walking buddy. For more beach inspiration, here is our guide to dog-friendly dog beaches in Dorset.

Highlands End and Golden Cap walk | Bridport

If your hound fancies channelling his inner Indiana Bones, the walk between Highlands End and Golden Cap on the Jurassic Coast (near Bridport)  is for them – although if they've  got little legs, be prepared to take a few breathers as it’s a lung-buster! Fossil hunters – this walk goes along the World Heritage coastline which has been recognised for its archaeological significance. So, if your dog likes to dig, he may find some important old bones!

The trail begins in Eype where you’ll find parking. There are toilets a few miles down the coast path at Seaton, as well as an inn if you need some refreshment. It then takes a circular route past Golden Cap and back to Eype via Seaton.

Cerne Giant walk | Cerne Abbas

Take your dog to see the UK's largest and most famous chalk figure, the Cerne Giant at Cerne Abbas in Dorset. The walk is a fairly relaxing until you reach the climb which is long and steady. However, it's mostly flat through woodland, with a few small hills – plus a stream which we know your pup is going to love! 

Park in Cerne Abbas – there’s a car park near the village hall. There’s also an award-winning pub in the village for when you need a post-walk pint and something to eat, and it welcomes four-legged guests too. If you are feeling hungry, take a look at our canine-friendly guide to places to eat with your dog in Dorset.

Corfe Common walk | Corfe Castle

This gentle walk on Corfe Common (close to Corfe Castle)  is perfect for the smaller pup and the common is home to a wide variety of wildlife – and interesting scents – for your hound to explore. The walk starts and ends in Corfe Castle where there is parking, toilets and dog-friendly pubs.

At Corfe Castle you can also enjoy a dog-friendly visit to the castle ruins, or if you have time, climb aboard a stream train to the coast at Swanage. It's a gorgeous, dog-friendly area of Dorset's Isle of Purbeck.