Rugged headlands, majestic windswept beaches, and breathtaking ocean views characterise the picturesque landscape of Dorset. You and your canine companion should find it the paw-fect dog friendly place to spend an afternoon outdoors.
There is a variety of dog friendly terrain that ranges from steep cliffside inclines, to flat stretches of sandy beach for you to admire. You will also find plenty of places that are perfectly suitable for you to explore alongside your pup. They might not all be off-lead friendly, but you shouldn’t let that stop you!
Below you will find a list of seven amazing trails that you should explore. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua in tow, or are trying to wrangle in a pack of Great Danes, why don’t you enjoy a wander along the wonderfully scenic Dorset coastline?
Lulworth Cove to Dog Friendly Durdle Door
Distance: 11.3km
Elevation Gain: 527m
Time: 3.5-5h
This beautifully scenic intermediate-length adventure will allow you to take in some amazing views along the Jurassic Coast. After climbing uphill to a viewpoint overlooking Ringstead Bay, you will backtrack to the east to enjoy Bat’s Head and Durdle Door. This one will likely be pretty busy, so remember to keep your dog on a lead.
Do you need somewhere to stay near Durdle Door? Why not check out The Bakehouse, dog friendly accommodation at your convenience.
Dog Friendly Forde Abbey Walk
Distance: 8.4km
Elevation Gain: 218
Time: 2-3h
This fun walking route will take you through a beautiful stretch of countryside to a 12th Century AD Cistercian Abbey. Livestock dotted pastures, historic buildings, and a charming riverside setting characterize this easy-going route.
Will you need somewhere to retire to after a long day walking with the pooch? Why not stay at the Honey Bee Retreat in Tytherleigh. The ideal pitstop on a dog friendly staycation.
Minterne Magna Loop
Distance: 8.7km
Elevation Gain: 288m
Time: 2.5-3.5h
Another great walking route that is steeped in history, the Minterne Magna Loop will take you uphill to an iconic hill figure known as the Cerne Abbas Giant. Enjoy the countryside, pass through charming villages, and enjoy views of the 55m tall hill figure made of chalk.
Want to plan a nice lunch for your day out in Dorset? Why not eat at the dog friendly Summer Lodge Country House! With a spa and pool also on offer, why not stay for the entire weekend.
Old Harry Rocks via Coast Path
Distance: 14.5km
Elevation Gain: 345m
Time: 3.5-5h
A bit of a longer adventure, the Old Harry Rocks via Coast Path Walk explores the easternmost portion of the UNESCO Heritage Site Jurassic Coast. The sandy expanse of Studland Beach, located just off the trail, offers plenty of room for you and your furry companion to enjoy some fun outdoors.
Corfe Castle to Swanage
Distance: 12.6km
Elevation Gain: 366m
Time: 3-4.5h
Much like the other Dorset walks on this list, this straightforward excursion takes in the natural beauty of the coast and the rich history of the region. Pass through a charming village and visit the stunning castle, hike along Purbeck Ridge, and explore the sandy expanse of Swanage beach on this easy adventure. Just remember that this is a one-way trail, so you will need to either backtrack along the trail or take the Swanage Heritage Railway back to the trailhead.
Golden Cap
Distance: 6.6km
Elevation Gain: 292m
Time: 2-3h
Climb up to the summit of the seaside hill known as Golden Cap to enjoy sweeping views along the coast. The picturesque Dorset countryside will offer the perfect backdrop for you and your pup to explore, so lace up your boots and get ready to hit the trail!
Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk
Distance: 5.8km
Elevation Gain: 171m
Time: 1.5-2h
Take in the interesting historical buildings and sweeping views of the coast on the Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk. With your canine companion in tow, you will traverse the coastline from Peveril Point to Durlston Castle, before continuing on to the Anvil Point Lighthouse for incredible views. This is a wonderful dog-friendly adventure that you won’t want to miss.
Explore the Dog Friendly Southwest of England
With walking routes of varying lengths and difficulties, there is sure to be an amazing Dorset adventure for you. They will all be suitable for human and canine explorers of all ages and skill levels. If you enjoy visiting the coast for the views and the chance to let your dogs run free by the ocean, be sure to make the drive out to Southwest England this year to experience all that the breathtaking Jurassic Coast has to offer.
Do You Know More Places To Explore In Dorset? Let Us Know In The Comments!
If you would like to find more dog friendly places to explore with your pooch check out our website!
