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The Best New Year's Day Walks in Dorset

Posted on 13th September 2024 by Melissa Hawkins
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After all the frivolity of the night before, no doubt you’ll be looking for a way to feel back to your normal self.
Luckily, there are plenty of activities on offer in Dorset to do just that. Our tops picks are either a chilly dip in the sea, or one of several fantastic New Year’s Day walks in Dorset.

The annual Lyme Lunge encourages you to take a plunge in the sea for charity on the first day of 2018. Lyme Regis has a gorgeous beach and is especially famous for its fossils.
Avon Beach in Christchurch also offers an organised New Year’s Day dip. A brilliant way to reuse your fancy dress from last night, and raise some much needed funds for charity while you’re at it. New year, new you!

Where to walk on New Year’s Day in Purbeck

If you’re into a more traditional New Year’s Day walk, there are some wonderful selections across Dorset. You’ll probably want a less challenging stroll rather than an uphill scramble along cliff edges!
We would recommend walking from Worth Matravers village, to either St Aldhem’s Chapel or down to Winspit and the quarry ‘caves’ along the coast. Here you can get your fill of refreshing sea air, without exerting yourself too much! While this walk would be particularly suited if you’re holidaying in Worth Matravers (see cottages in Worth Matravers), you can also easily extend the walk and start from your Langton Matravers holiday cottage (see cottages in Langton Matravers).

Another lovely level walk could take you along Ringstead beach to The Smuggler’s Inn at Osmington. The pebbly beach provides just the right amount of challenge to stretch your legs and the pub is your reward for that much-needed refuelling. See cottages near Osmington.

Finally, if you’re in Wareham, start your walk on the quay. Walk along the River Frome, taking in the peaceful sights and sounds of the riverboats. This could take you all the way to Poole Harbour should you so desire. Or maybe turn around at the sailing club for lunch at The Old Granary on Wareham Quay. Alternatively, RSPB Arne is a fabulous nature reserve. A lovely level walk through the trees (avoiding the tree roots of course) down to a secluded beach. Another great location for a walk is Wareham Forest, offering short circular walks as well as longer stretches through deserted heathlands. Find our cottages in Wareham.

No matter where you are in Dorset for your New Year’s break, we have plenty of ideas for things to do. Have a look at our What’s On pages, or give us a call in the office for some personalised recommendations.

Find all availability for holiday cottages for New Year’s break or availability for a Christmas break in Dorset.