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Dog Friendly Walks in Dorset

Posted on 20th September 2024 by Melissa Hawkins
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walk my dog in dorset

To help your plan your pet friendly adventure in Dorset, we have put together a list of walks that are very suitable for dogs.

1-5: Coastal Capers

  1. Jurassic Coast Path (Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door): Pet-friendly paths allow dogs to explore the iconic Jurassic Coast alongside their owners.  Pets are welcome, but please keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife.
  2. Charmouth to Lyme Regis: The beach walk is pet-friendly, providing ample space for dogs to enjoy the coastal scenery and fossil-rich shores.  Dogs are allowed, but should be kept on a lead, and there are dog waste bins along the route.
  3. Studland Bay Nature Reserve: Designated pet-friendly areas within the nature reserve ensure dogs can roam freely and enjoy the heathland and sandy shores.  Dogs are welcome in designated areas. Check the National Trust website for specific details.
  4. Ringstead Bay Circular Walk: The circular coastal route includes pet-friendly paths, allowing dogs to experience the beauty of Ringstead Bay.
  5. Portland Bill Circular Walk: Dogs are welcome to explore the rugged beauty of Portland Bill, making it a pet-friendly coastal adventure.  Dogs are allowed, but it’s advised to keep them on a lead, especially around the lighthouse.

 

Durdle Door on a sunny day, a great dog-friendly walk from Lulworth Cove

6-10: Woodland Wonders

  1. Wareham Forest: Well-marked trails make Wareham Forest a pet-friendly woodland destination where dogs can roam freely.
  2. Thorncombe Woods (Hardy’s Cottage to Thorncombe Beacon): Dogs are welcome to explore the scenic woodland and heathland paths associated with Thomas Hardy’s Wessex.
  3. Badbury Rings Circular Walk: A historical walk around Badbury Rings with pet-friendly trails, allowing dogs to enjoy the woodlands and historic site.  Dogs should be kept on a lead when livestock is grazing.  There is a car park on site.
  4. Hengistbury Head Coastal Reserve: Dogs are allowed on the varied coastal and woodland paths, providing a diverse and pet-friendly walking experience.  Dogs should be kept on a lead in bird nesting season.
  5. Hawkchurch Woods: A tranquil woodland walk where dogs can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, making it a pet-friendly destination.

 

Wareham Woods in Winter, a dog-friendly walk in Dorset

 

11-15: Countryside Capades

  1. Cerne Abbas Giant Circular Walk: Explore the countryside surrounding the famous Cerne Abbas Giant, with rolling hills and scenic vistas.
  2. Milton Abbas Circular Walk: The charming village walk is pet-friendly, providing a picturesque countryside experience for dogs and their owners.
  3. Toller Porcorum to Powerstock Circular Walk: Dogs are welcome on this countryside walk through the idyllic villages of Toller Porcorum and Powerstock.
  4. Piddle Valley Circular Walk: Meander through the peaceful Piddle Valley, a pet-friendly experience for dogs and their owners.
  5. Lyscombe and Chaldon Herring Circular Walk: Enjoy the tranquility of the Lyscombe and Chaldon Herring countryside on this circular walk.

Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset

 

16-20: River Ramblings

  1. Sturminster Newton to Hinton St Mary Riverside Walk: A riverside stroll along the River Stour, providing a pet-friendly route with scenic views.
  2. Sherborne to Castleton Circular Walk: This riverside walk along the River Yeo is pet-friendly, allowing dogs to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  3. Abbotsbury to West Bexington Coastal Walk: The scenic walk from Abbotsbury to West Bexington is pet-friendly, providing a coastal and river-themed experience.
  4. Beaminster to Netherbury Circular Walk: A river-themed walk through charming villages is pet-friendly, allowing dogs to explore the countryside.
  5. River Frome Circular Walk (Moreton to Wool): Dogs are welcome to explore the River Frome and its surroundings on this circular walk, making it a pet-friendly river ramble.

 

A dog friendly walk in Dorset along the river Frome

 

Dog-Friendly walking Tips for a Pawsome Experience:

  • Always check local regulations and guidelines for pet-friendly areas.
  • Carry essentials such as water, snacks, and waste bags for your furry friend.
  • Respect wildlife and other walkers to ensure a harmonious experience for everyone.
Find a

Dog Friendly cottage in Dorset

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Juniper Cottage image
Juniper Cottage
West Lulworth
4.9/5
Juniper Cottage is a recently refurbished Victorian terraced cottage tucked away off the main road in the scenic village of West Lulworth, close to both Lulworth Cove and one of the Jurassic Coast’s most iconic features, Durdle Door. This two-storey, dog-friendly cottage accommodates up to 4 adults or a family of 5. The ground floor is an open-plan living and dining space with small, private front and rear gardens, upstairs are two bedrooms and a bathroom.
5
2
1
2
Holiday prices from  £443
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Hill View
Weymouth
5/5
Set in the peaceful Weymouth suburb of Preston, Hill View offers a delightful retreat for couples or small families.
4
2
1
1
Holiday prices from  £320
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Below Decks
Swanage
4.8/5
Below Decks is a gorgeous, seafront holiday home that sleeps 6 guests. Situated on the Parade in the heart of Swanage with the main beach, restaurants and shops directly on your doorstep, it is perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway.
6
3
2
2
Holiday prices from  £507
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Castle View House
Corfe Castle
5/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle View House, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle View House invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
9
5
4
1
Holiday prices from  £1,630
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Froxfield Cottage
Langton Matravers
4.9/5
3 Bedrooms. Froxfield Cottage is a cosy renovated quarryman’s cottage built in the 1850’s, sympathetically decorated in a mix of contemporary and traditional style.
6
3
2
1
Holiday prices from  £528
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Castle Heights
Corfe Castle
5/5
Escape the ordinary at Castle Heights, a haven in the countryside that accommodates up to nine guests. With its enchanting views of Corfe Castle, stylish open-plan interiors, and dog-friendly atmosphere, this residence promises a unique and memorable retreat. Nestled in the heart of Corfe Castle village, it provides an ideal setting for switching off from the demands of everyday life and savoring every moment with friends and family. Whether you're captivated by the historic charm of the surroundings or indulging in the comfort of the stylish interiors, Castle Heights invites you to create lasting memories in a tranquil and welcoming escape.
6
3
3
1
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Save 25% on stays between 1st Nov 2025 - 19th Dec 2025
+2 more discounts
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Orchid House
Langton Matravers
4.9/5
A delightful four-bedroom holiday accommodation, set right on the doorstep of Dorset’s most breath-taking coastal walks, in the village of Langton Matravers.
8
4
3
2
Holiday prices from  £561
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The Wedge
Swanage
4.9/5
A spacious 3 bedroom bungalow, set on the cliff top in a private part of Swanage overlooking picturesque Purbeck Hills. Situated just outside of the town centre on a quiet road but with all amenities nearby, this holiday home is within a short walk of the beach. It is ideal for those wishing to explore most spectacular walks and enjoy the scenery of a pretty coastline.
6
3
2
1
Holiday prices from  £523
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Cherry Tree Cottage
Ridge, Nr Wareham
4.8/5
2 Bedroom delightful holiday cottage with log burner in Ridge. Well equipped with all you might need for a family get away in peaceful surroundings, yet still within easy reach of a wide range of attractions and sandy beaches.
4
2
1
1
Holiday prices from  £462
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White Sands
Swanage
4.9/5
4 Bedrooms. This stunning property is set on the cliff top in a secluded part of Swanage, boasting panoramic sea views over the bay toward Peveril Point, the Isle of Wight and Ballard Down. Situated just outside of the town centre and well away from any main road, it is beautifully quiet, ideal for those of you wishing to escape it all.
9
4
2
2
Holiday prices from  £974
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Wye Knot
Swanage
4.8/5
A delightful ground floor apartment with private garden is perfectly placed for a family's getaway, within easy access to Swanage beach and town attractions.
4
2
2
1
Holiday prices from  £458
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Church Cottage
Corfe Castle
4.7/5
Set in an idyllic location, this welcoming 18th century, Grade II listed character cottage stands in the heart of the picturesque village of Corfe Castle. Church Cottage boasts a beautiful garden and welcomes two dogs, making it an ideal base for a family get together.
6
3
2
2
Holiday prices from  £475
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Cheesemans Cottage
Muckleford, Dorchester
4.6/5
This traditional home embodies all the distinct qualities of a quintessential English country retreat in Dorset. This ‘chocolate box’ thatched cottage, located on a quiet country lane is surrounded by a beautiful garden.
5
2
1
3
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Littlecot
Weymouth
5/5
A gorgeous, detached family home within stones throw of Smallmouth Bay and the Rodwell trail. Ideal for those who want a comfy base for friends or extended family.
8
4
2
2
Holiday prices from  £588
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The Hollies
Nr Lulworth
5/5
A boutique, single storey holiday home, which overlooks open countryside, on a quiet country lane - just a couple of miles from Lulworth Cove.
6
3
1
1
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Bronte Cottage
Wareham
4.8/5
3 Bedrooms. Bronte Cottage is a charming holiday cottage in Wareham, hidden away in a fabulous location a few strides from Wareham Quay and the river Frome.
4
3
2
1
Holiday prices from  £449
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holiday home wareham with hot tub
Cherry Lodge
Wareham
4.7/5
Comfort and space to be enjoyed by friends and family in this large, modern home complete with bubbling hot tub. Its pet friendly and has plenty of parking. The quality of this home and the size of the garden are what attracts guests to Cherry Lodge.
9
4
2
2
Holiday prices from  £555
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The Lawns
Charlton Marshall, Nr Blandford
4.8/5
2 bedroom holiday cottage near to Blandford in the pretty village of Charlton Marshall, lovely country views and walks. Property all on one level with stunning garden.
4
2
1
2
Holiday prices from  £418
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Forest Edge
Sandford
4.8/5
Forest Edge is a two bedroom semi-detached chalet bungalow offering luxury accommodation near Wareham. Mainly laid out on the ground floor, this delightful holiday home has been completely refurbished to a very high standard.
4
2
2
2
Holiday prices from  £364
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Honeysuckle Cottage
Kingston, Nr Corfe Castle
4.8/5
This two-bedroom + annex Purbeck stone cottage is tucked away in the very quiet village of Kingston, near Corfe Castle. Escape the everyday, with luxury interiors and enhancing views! Pet-friendly.
6
3
2
2
Holiday prices from  £843
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