Get some fresh air this festive season, from a stroll after a dip on the Boxing Day Swanage Swim to some festive wine at Dorset’s most famous pub. We guide you through the best walks for the festive season.
Work off the mince pies with a stroll along this stunning National Trust beach. You can walk along the seashore or in the beautiful dunes that border Studland Heath. Perfect for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year, and parking is open all year round!
Walk to Winspit from the village green at Worth Matravers down a steep grassy valley. Now deserted, Winspit features derelict houses and quarry caves, some fenced off for safety. Enjoy a Christmas tipple at the Square and Compass, a Dorset gem!
For the best view in Dorset, take a crisp stroll onto the Purbeck Hills, offering views over Corfe Castle on one side and Brownsea Island on the other. From the walkers car park on Sandy Hill Lane, walk up the hill, with the option to continue to Swanage or the Bankes Arms at Studland.
Enjoy a frosty trek to Swyre Head, a pushchair-friendly route. To get there: Grid Reference; 943793. From Corfe Castle, turn right for Kingston, continue until reaching the Scott Arms on your right, then follow the road to the small car park.
If your idea of Boxing Day fun is a dip in the chilly Channel, head to the Boxing Day Swim on Swanage beach. Many participants brave the cold without a wetsuit. Afterwards, stroll along the beach and warm up with a drink in one of Swanage’s old pubs, many of which welcome pets.
Come here for a chance to spot dolphins – need we say more?
A must-visit for photography lovers, Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks. A frosty or snowy shot is a rare find. Start from the Lulworth Cove car park and take the challenging walk over the hill and down to the famous stone archway, with steps leading down to the beach.
This park and stately home, managed by the local council, hosts a Santa’s Grotto in the run-up to Christmas. The estate walk offers beautiful views of Poole Harbour, making it ideal for birdwatchers.
Weymouth Beach is popular year-round. Enjoy a stroll on New Year’s Day after the festivities. Weymouth is gaining popularity as a South Coast destination for New Year’s Eve, with a lively atmosphere and friendly crowds.
Kimmeridge is a favorite spot for a winter walk. Though access is steep and the beach rocky, the stunning winter waves make it worth the effort.
The Castle Inn: A cosy pub with an open fire and real ales. www.castleinncorfe.com 01929 480208
Scott Arms: An old Dorset pub with fantastic views over the Isle of Purbeck and Corfe Castle. www.thescottarms.com 01929 480270
On a Budget: Lizards Rest in Swanage sleeps up to 9 guests in comfort. A spacious home within walking distance of Swanage’s sandy beach. 01929 481547
01929 481547