Walks Programme
Thank you to all the walk leaders who have supported us through our first programme and submitted walks for winter. Without you none of this would be possible, so please keep sending them to us, and if you have walks that you would like to include in spring (March to June) then you can send them to us any time. As always, we would like walks from new leaders, so if you haven’t led a walk before please give it a try.
Please remember that some walks can be wet and muddy, so come in suitable clothing. If you are coming in someone else’s car, please bring a change of shoes and a bag to put your muddy boots into.
We’d also like to remind walkers to ensure they have their emergency information on them. The facility on mobile phones captures relevant details, is an ideal place to store it, and can be accessed without passcode or fingerprint.
We hope to see you all on the walks this winter.
Sean McLean and Nikki – Walks Programme
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GRID REFs and POSTCODEs: Show the starting points of walks. CAR SHARE: We only include a car share time where the walk leader will be at the lay-by in Northbrook Road opposite Day’s Park (SZ 026 799 / BH19 1QW). We suggest passengers make a contribution towards petrol costs, in proportion to the distance travelled. Please bring a change of shoes or covers for your shoes to avoid getting other people’s cars dirty. Note that there is no guarantee of lifts being available. CAR SHARE TIME: Indicates the time when cars will leave the Northbrook Road lay-by. BUS TIMES: Are departure times. Unless otherwise stated, all bus information is for “More” buses from Swanage Bus & Rail Station. Confirm times when latest bus timetable is printed. Concessionary bus passes are not valid for use on services before 09:30 Mon-Fri [N.B. valid all day on Saturdays]. MEMBERS TRAVELLING BY BUS from the Wareham direction for walks starting from Corfe Castle should contact the walk leader beforehand to let the leader know they could be late arriving for the start. WALKS DETAILS & POOR WEATHER: Walk leaders should be contacted if further information is needed about their walks. In inclement weather, please check your e-mail for late cancellation, even on the morning of the walk. For those members not on e-mail, please call the walk leader if unsure whether the walk will take place. Walk leaders have the right to decide whether to start a walk or not and to abandon or alter walks if they believe it is warranted by the conditions.
September Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the September 2026 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Wednesday 2nd – WORTH MATRAVERS CIRCULAR
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 974 776 / BH19 3LE / lemmings.openings.landlords
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Car Share: Space for 2; contact walk leader
Meet and start from Worth Matravers car park (£3 charge). Scenic walk taking in Hill Bottom, St Aldhelm’s Chapel and Winspit. Expect 2 steady climbs and 2 steady descents, but also lots of flat and no stiles! Some steps (descending) as we leave the coast path to join the Winspit path. Generally, good paths, but there is a section that is rocky/uneven so poles would be useful.
Friday 4th – YARMOUTH TO ALUM BAY – WAVERLEY PADDLE STEAMER
N.B. Waverley Excursions has cancelled its sailing from Swanage because of strong winds. Therefore THIS WALK IS CANCELLED
Start Time: 10:20
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 354 900 / PO41 0PE / group.follow.desktop (Yarmouth Pier)
Leader: Robin Brasher – 01929 427015 / 07767 693769
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; bring a picnic lunch
Check first thing on the Friday morning in case the sailing is cancelled: www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk. Meet on Swanage Pier (SZ 036 788) at 10:20 to catch 10:50 sailing on Waverley paddle steamer to Yarmouth, arriving at 12:30. Fare £55 adults. £53 seniors. Eat lunch on board as there will not be any long breaks on the walk. At 12:50 take No. 7 bus from Yarmouth Bus Station (stand B) to Alum Bay, arriving at 13:15, and walk back along cliff top paths and promenades. No stiles, some steps and road walking. Steep climb at Headon Hill. Refreshments are available on the boat to buy on the return journey. Return sailing leaves Yarmouth Pier at 17:00 to arrive at Swanage at 18:35.
Saturday 5th – HIGHER BOCKHAMPTON CIRCULAR
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 725 921 / DT2 8QH / recovery.notch.composer
Leader: Simon Nightingale – 07811 169702
Meet and park in Thorncombe Wood pay & display car park (i.e. the car park at Hardy’s Birthplace Visitor Centre DT2 8QH). Parking is £5 for 4 hours or £8 for up to 8 hours even for National Trust members. Car sharing recommended. The route follows a quiet road and footpath descending to Stinsford Church (graves of Hardy family) then on to Lower Bockhampton. Return through farmland into Puddletown Forest, ascending to Hardy’s Cottage and the visitor centre cafe for refreshments. Toilets available. (If you would like to visit Hardy’s Cottage after the walk you should pre-book on an individual basis – opening hours 10:15 to 15:00.
Wednesday 9th – WEYMOUTH TO SANDSFOOT CASTLE – WAVERLEY PADDLE STEAMER
Start Time: 11:00
Distance: 3 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 681 787 / DT4 8BG (Weymouth Harbour) / acted.verse.lined
Leader: Robin Brasher – 01929 427015 / 07767 693769
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; bring a picnic lunch
Check first thing on the Wednesday morning in case the sailing is cancelled www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk. Meet on Swanage Pier (SZ 036 788) at 11:00 to catch the 11:20 sailing on Waverley paddle steamer to Weymouth, arriving at 13:10. £55 adults. £51 seniors. The walk is on busy urban roads and a disused railway track with a tarmac surface. Approximately 30 min break at Sandsfoot Castle where there is a café. Arrive back at Weymouth Harbour at 16:15 for return sailing at 16:30, to arrive at Swanage at 18:15. Note: It is possible to take the No. 30 bus from Swanage to Weymouth to meet Waverley passengers at the Harbour Office (what3words gold.unable.longer) for the walk. Let the leader know if you choose this option.
Saturday 12th – WOOL CIRCULAR VIA COOMBE KEYNES
Start Time: 10:15
Distance: 6.4 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 841 868 / BH20 6EQ / birthdays.increment.inhabited
Leader: Lesley Watts – 07359 479879
Bus: 09:30 (No. 30) from Swanage; 10:10 from Wareham Post Office south bound. See timetable for other stops on the route
Meet and park in the car park alongside the railway line at The Ship Inn, Wool, BH20 6EQ. A circular walk mainly through fields to Coombe Keynes, then crossing the B3071 to Coombe Wood and walking via New Buildings back to Wool. Tracks, paths, and fields. Some lane and road walking. No stiles. If you are coming by bus, alight at Wool Primary School south bound (10:26) and the group will pick up there on the way out of Wool. Return buses at 13:26, 15:26 and 16:26. Please let leader know if you are coming by bus. Option to lunch at the The Ship Inn after the walk.
Wednesday 16th – SHAPWICK AND WHITE MILL, RIVER STOUR
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 6.23 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: ST 936 016 / DT11 9LA / fond.eagles.tougher
Leaders: Peter and Hilary Parascandolo – 01929 427174 / 07801 802095
Car Share: Use Swanage Car Share App
Meet in Shapwick Church car park (free). Follow along Stour Valley Way to White Mill. Return via edge of Kingston Lacy Estate, Sweetbriar Drove and Park Lane. A relatively flat walk with good views. Parts can be muddy after rain. Several low squeeze stiles. Stour Valley Way path adjacent to the River Stour is a no dogs permissive path. Welcome to join walk leaders for lunch in The Anchor Inn, Shapwick after the walk. Food served until 14:15.
Saturday 19th – OLD HARRY ROCKS AND BALLARD DOWN CIRCULAR
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 029 802 / BH19 1NE / slopes.frock.lurching
Leader: Celia Arnold – 07950 847450; Nick Arnold – 07771 361640
Meet at Ballard Stores. Take coast path to Old Harry Rocks. Continue along path to South Beach for short break (Joe’s Cafe and toilets in this vicinity). Return via church, through Glebeland and over Ballard Down. Some steps and hills. Walking poles may help with descent.
Wednesday 23rd – STRATTON FIGURE OF EIGHT
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5.5 or 11 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 651 937 / DT2 9SR / socialite.tumblers.rods
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; bring a picnic lunch
Meet outside the Church of St Mary, Stratton. Park on adjacent roads. The morning walk circles Stratton Down passing an old settlement following a ridge with very good views. Total ascent 706 ft. Afternoon walkers should aim to arrive between 12:30 and 13:00, which is the planned lunch break. The afternoon walk goes south of Stratton through Bradford Peverell over Penn Hill and down to Muckleford, arriving back at the start point. Total ascent 539 ft with excellent views and only 4 stiles. Option to visit The Saxon Arms (near the start point) for refreshments after the walk.
Saturday 26th – CIRCUIT OF CHRISTCHURCH HARBOUR
Start Time: 10:20
Distance: 8 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 150 920 / BH6 4JU / gravy.damage.insist
Leader: Brian Arnold – 07740 980056
Car Share: 09:05 (leader will be there)
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; bring a picnic lunch
Car share from Northbrook Road (Swanage) layby to leave at 09:05 to catch 09:30 Sandbanks Ferry. Park at junction of Wick Lane and Broadlands Avenue in Tuckton / Wick. Later start if heavy traffic from Swanage. Toilets near start of walk. Easy level walk via Hengistbury Head (small up/down), Mudeford Quay, Stanpit Marsh and Christchurch. Pub, café and toilets at picnic stop. No stiles. Two ferries during walk at total £5 (cash only) per person (Mudeford ferry £3.50, Wick ferry £1.50).
Wednesday 30th – WORTH TO SEACOMBE, BACK VIA EAST MAN
N.B. The leader for this walk has changed since the original walks programme was published
Start Time: 09:45
Distance: 4 miles (ish)
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 974 776 / BH19 3LE / dorms.sunroof.sculpting
Leader: Fiona – fionaak@hotmail.com
Notes: Option to walk from Acton Lane west-bound bus stop to the turning off Priests Way by Eastington (SY985 779), having arrived on the 09:00 bus (No. 40) from Swanage (bus time to be confirmed). Please contact the leader if you choose this option (extra 2 miles).
Meet at the Worth Matravers car park (charge). Walk along Priests Way past Eastington Farm, then down to Seacombe for coffee. Back up and over East Man to Worth. Good views; lovely coastal spot for coffee. Two stiles and one steady descent and one steep climb. Rocky coast at Seacombe, easiest to handle route down with a stick. Option for a drink and a pasty at the Square & Compass after the walk.
October Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the October 2026 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Saturday 3rd – STUDLAND TO STUDLAND HEATH AND LITTLE SEA – SHORT WALK
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 3.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 037 825 / BH19 3AU / juggles.goodness.reheat
Leader: Steve Williams – 07766 375151
Bus: 09:25 (No. 50). Bus time to be confirmed
Park in National Trust car park by Bankes Arms in Studland (free for NT members). Walk along coast path to Knoll Beach and then through Studland Nature Reserve to the Little Sea. Circle back through Studland Heath and return to Studland along the beach.
Wednesday 7th – FRITHAM AND ASHLEY CIRCULAR
N.B. THIS WALK IS CANCELLED
Start Time: 10:15
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SU 229 140 / SO43 7HY / hometown.arch.shredding
Leader: Jane Hamilton – 07935 074555
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; Bring a picnic lunch or eat in the Royal Oak pub
Park in the Forestry Commission car park just beyond the Royal Oak pub. Parking charges (£5 for 4 hours using the RingGo app) or park on the verges near the pub and walk across the green to the start point at the car park. A relatively remote walk on all-weather forest tracks with a mix of heath and woodland scenery and some good views across the New Forest landscape. The route also skirts the Ashley Walk bombing range – testing ground for the “Dam Buster” bouncing bombs used in WW2. The Royal Oak pub is famous for its ploughman’s lunches.
Saturday 10th – TARRANT GUNVILLE CIRCULAR
N.B. Some details for this walk have changed since the original walks programme was published
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 9 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: ST 914 128 / DT11 8JW / ages.beep.breeze
Leader: Mike Cleaver – 07778 505168; Penny Cleaver – 07870 437967
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; Bring a packed lunch
Meet in the parking field just opposite the entrance to Home Farm Café & Shop, about 1k west of Tarrant Gunville village. A lovely circular walk around the Tarrant Valley on Cranborne Chase. Fairly flat with no stiles. Great big-sky views over the north Dorset countryside and a lovely stop in the church next to the beautiful Chettle House. Walking part of the Jubilee Trail and passing various long barrows along the way. All welcome to join the leaders for tea and cake at Home Farm Shop afterwards. Note: Lift available from Langton or pick up in Corfe or Wareham (contact the walk leaders).
Wednesday 14th – BROADMAYNE FIGURE OF EIGHT
N.B. This walk was originally scheduled for Wednesday September 21st. The distances for this walk have changed since the original walks programme was published
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5.5. 7 or 12.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 730 863 / DT2 8EN / liberated.silly.view
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: ALL DAY WALK; bring a picnic lunch
Meet at Broadmayne Village Hall Sports Field, close to the junction of Osmington Drove and High Trees. Park in Osmington Drove. The first 5.5 miles follow the Drove to White Horse Hill, along the ridge to Poxwell and back to the start. Good views of Portland and Weymouth. The afternoon 7 miles follow the Jubilee Trail north towards Warmwell Heath, round Warmwell, and back to the start. A woodland and open heathland trail. Afternoon walkers should aim to arrive between 12:30 and 13:00, which is the planned lunch break. Please let the leader know if you intend to arrive for the afternoon walk. Toilets available in the village hall.
Saturday 17th – STOBOROUGH HEATH
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 923 871 / BH20 4LP / shallower.storm.cringe
Leader: Jane Bell – 07702 791749
Bus: 09:00 (No. 40). Bus time to be confirmed
Start on the grass opposite Wareham Quay and walk along the riverside path to Ridge. Walk along tramway, and across parts of Stoborough Heath, before going behind Stoborough Meadow and then through Stoborough back towards Wareham. There will be one fairly steep short upward section on the first part of the walk. No stiles – could be muddy in places. Option for lunch at the King’s Arms, Stoborough.
Wednesday 21st – SWANAGE – ROUND AND ABOUT
N.B. THIS WALK IS CANCELLED
Start Time: 10:15
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 032 788 / BH19 1DD / merge.panthers.orchids
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Bus: 08:40 (No. 40) from Poole; 08:55 (No. 50) from Bournemouth. Please let the walk leader know if you are travelling on the Bournemouth bus
Notes: This walk was originally scheduled for Wednesday September 14th
Meet on Swanage seafront next to the Mowlem. Lovely views as we walk to Peveril Point and across the Downs and Durlston Nature Reserve. Generally good, wide tracks. Steady uphill from Peveril Point until we reach Durlston. Then reasonably flat until we descend via the Priest’s Way back to Swanage. A bit of mud. No stiles. One field has cattle. Leader advises not to bring dogs.
Saturday 24th – CREECHBARROW HILL, STEEPLE AND TYNEHAM
N.B. THIS WALK IS CANCELLED (See email distributed on October 22nd)
Start Time: 09:40
Distance: 7.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SY 887 812 / walking.abolish.regrowth
Leader: Ian Swanson – 07906 333799
Car Share: 09:00 (Call leader for details)
Notes: Bring a picnic lunch
Meet at Whiteway/Povington Hill car park. Walk over Povington Hill and Grange Arch to Creechbarrow Hill with wide inland views towards Wareham and Poole. Down the hill to Steeple and its church and into the ranges down a more recent path to Tyneham. From there, climb back up to the ridge. One steep up and down. (Note: The leader is thinking of missing out Tyneham village for a slightly shorter walk with less climb). Three stiles, two of which are in less than perfect condition. One may be a little difficult for carrying dogs. Sheep in several fields.
Wednesday 28th – SWANAGE TO CORFE CASTLE “FLYING SCOTSMAN” WALK
Start Time: 09:50
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 029 789 / BH19 1HB / ranted.playful.archduke
Leader: Steve Williams – 07766 375151
Bus: (No. 40) from Wareham direction
Meet at Swanage Railway Station for a linear walk along the Purbeck valley, criss-crossing the railway. Walk via Herston camp-site, Windmill Knapp, New Barn, Wilkswood Farm, Haycrafts Farm, Woodyhyde Campsite and Sandyhills Copse. The Flying Scotsman steam locomotive will be operating trains on the Swanage Railway on this day and there should be opportunities to observe or photograph it in action. Return to Swanage by bus or train or join the leader for refreshments in Corfe Castle. Note: Walkers coming from the Wareham direction may wish to park in Corfe Castle National Trust car park (free for NT members) and catch the 09:20 No. 40 bus to Swanage for the start of the walk (The leader will await the arrival of the bus). The aim is to arrive at Corfe Castle in time to catch the 13:30 bus back to Swanage for those who want to.
Saturday 31st – BERE REGIS AND TURNERS PUDDLE CIRCULAR
Start Time: 10:00
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 846 948 / BH20 7HA] / widest.structure.unroll
Leader: Rob Lobley – 07766 630453
Meet at (free) car park in Bere Regis next to Manor Farm Road. Alternative parking in adjacent roads. Circular walk taking in Turners Puddle, Piddle Wood, Jubilee Trail and Shitterton. Fairly easy walking with woodland and rolling countryside. Expect some mud.
November Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the November 2026 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Wednesday 4th – NORTH BROADMAYNE CIRCULAR
Start Time: 10.00
Distance: 7 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 730 863 / DT2 8EN / liberated.silly.view
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: All day walk, bring a picnic lunch
Meet at Broadmayne Village Hall Sports Field, close to the junction of Osmington Drove and High Trees. Park in Osmington Drove. The route follows the Jubilee Trail North towards Warmwell Heath, round Warmwell, and back to the start. Toilets available in the village hall, if open.
Saturday 7th – OWER BAY VIA NEWTON HEATH
N.B. Details for this walk have changed since the original walks programme was published
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 7.1 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SZ 025 843 / oasis.turned.reactions
Leader: Lesley Watts – 07359 479879
Bus: The bus service to Goathorn Farm bus stop is suspended from November 2nd for approximately seven weeks
Notes: Limited parking at start point; please car share. Leader will cover pickup from Northbrook Road lay-by, departing at 09:30. Bring a picnic lunch
Meet at the Greenland Farm track entrance on Ferry Road. An (almost) circular walk via Newton Heath to Ower Bay, returning via Greenlands Farm. May need to vary/shorten route depending on underfoot conditions. Anticipate some mud. No stiles.
Wednesday 11th – KINGSTON & WORTH MATRAVERS CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:35
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SY 953 794 / coasted.buggy.settled
Leader: Rob Lobley – 07766 630453
Bus: (No. 40) 10:00 from Swanage
Notes: Closest postcode is for the Kingston church – BH20 5LL
Meet At Houns Tout car park in Kingston. Head to coast via The Plantation. At coast turn east and head down new steep steps along the coastal path. Continue along path until above Chapman’s Pool then head inland to Worth Matravers. Return to Kingston via Hill Bottom and fields to the bottom of South Street, which we follow back to Kingston. Option for refreshments at Scott Arms after walk. Anyone coming by bus from Poole direction should alert leader in advance.
Saturday 14th – CORFE CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:30
Distance: 5.85 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 959 824 / BH20 5DR / almost.achieving.pampering
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Bus: (No. 40) 10:00 from Swanage; 09:35 from Poole
Notes: If travelling by bus, please let walk leader know if you are delayed
Meet at Corfe Castle Visitor Centre car park. A reasonably gentle walk crossing heathland and through woodland. Expect uneven ground and mud. Route goes via Scotland, New Mills Heath and Norden Farm.
Wednesday 18th – WAREHAM CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 4.6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 919 873 / BH20 4PQ / thank.valued.worth
Leader: Celia Arnold – 07950 847450 / Nick Arnold – 07771 361640
Bus: (No. 40) 9.00 from Swanage
Notes: Bus gets to Wareham at 09:36, then a 5-minute walk to Streche Road
Meet at Streche Road car park (parking charge – free locally on street). Figure of eight walk around the walls and along the track to Swineham. Returning along Bestwall Road to the quay. Brief pause for toilets and snack. Then along the river to Redcliffe and Stoborough, returning along the causeway to The Quay with the possibility of lunch.
Saturday 21st – KIMMERIDGE QUARRY, TYNEHAM & WORBARROW CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 7.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SY 918 800 / hangs.confetti.anchovies
Leader: Mike Cleaver – 07778 505168 & Penny Cleaver – 07870 437967
Notes: Option to bring a packed lunch to eat in Kimmeridge Bay.
Meet and start in the quarry car park above Kimmeridge village. A lovely walk along the ridge above Kimmeridge to Tyneham village, before walking down to Worbarrow Bay. Then up to the coastal path and on to Kimmeridge Bay, returning to the car park. Beautiful far-reaching views throughout. Several steep descents and ascents along route.
Wednesday 25th – NINE BARROW DOWN / GODLINGSTON HEATH
N.B. Bus time subject to change
Start time: 09:45
Distance: 6.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 021 809 / BH19 3DG / clogging.linen.highly
Leader: Jane Hamilton – 07935 074555
Bus: (No. 50) 09:25 from Swanage. Arrive 09:32
Notes: Three stiles
Meet at first Ulwell lay-by opposite Ulwell Holiday Park. Circular walk up Nine Barrow Down to descend Brenscombe Hill, crossing B3351 to Rempstone Farm. Then track through Kingswood and Godlingston Heaths, passing through and over Purbeck Golf Course. Descend to Ulwell Road, returning on the road to the start point.
Saturday 28th – A CIRCUIT OF DURLSTON COUNTRY PARK
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 4 to 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 033 781 / BH19 2HU / fury.lyricism.political
Leader: Stephen Williams – 07766 375151
Notes: An anti-clockwise circular walk around the edge of Durlston Country Park
Meet at the junction of Bon Accord Road and Durlston Road. There is plenty of free on-street car parking on either road. Approximate route via Townsend Nature Reserve, Belle View Farm and Durlston Castle, but this may change depending on the state of the paths. Stop for break at Durlston Castle.
December Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the December 2026 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Wednesday 2nd – NORTH KIMMERIDGE & PURBECK HILLS CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 918 800 / BH20 5PH / hangs.confetti.anchovies
Leader: Julie & Dave Rollinson – 07935 226533
Notes: Postcode is for Kimmeridge Village.
Start at Kimmeridge quarry car park. This walk covers tracks, paths, fields and some road walking, ascending onto the ridge. Lovely views. Passing Grange Arch, a good coffee snack spot, walking along the ridge and dropping back down through Steeple. One ascent and a relatively steep descent. Poles advised. Approximately five stiles.
Saturday 5th – DEAN HILL BUS STOP VIA NINE BARROW DOWN TO VILLAGE INN (ULWELL)
N.B. Bus time subject to change
Start time: 09:40
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SZ 020 816 / dares.spouting.melt
Leader: Ian Swanson – 07906 333799
Bus: (No. 50) 09:25 from Swanage bus station
Notes: It would be possible to park at Ulwell and walk up to Dean Hill and back from the Village Inn at the end – adding about ¾ mile
Meet at Dean Hill bus stop (route to Obelisk). Along and over golf course and heath to Rempstone. Then up Brenscombe Hill and along past the Barrows. Lovely views of Poole Harbour, Studland and Swanage Bay. Back to the Village Inn for a drink/lunch or bus back to Swanage. Two or three stiles. One steep up and easier down. No toilets until end of walk.
Wednesday 9th – CHRISTMAS LUNCH PRECEDED BY WALK
Start time: Walk 10:15; Lunch 12:30 for 13:00
Distance: 3.8 mile
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 013 819 / BH19 3AB / attending.hillsides.rope
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: This year’s Christmas lunch will be held at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club
The lunch will be preceded by a walk starting at the golf club car park and probably going via Agglestone Rock, skirting Studland and back via Black Down Mound. Full details to be emailed a week or so before. If it is raining significantly on the day, the walk will be cancelled.
Saturday 12th – CORFE TO SWANAGE LINEAR
Start time: 09:40
Distance: 7 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 960 820 / BH20 5EZ / transmit.ascendant.young
Leader: Rob Lobley – 07766 630453
Bus: (No. 40) 09:00 from Swanage; 08:40 from Poole
Catch 09:00 bus from Swanage or 08:40 from Poole to meet at 9:40 in Square at Corfe Castle by war memorial. Head along Purbeck Way and Priests Way to Swanage via Worth Matravers. There will probably be mud on the Purbeck Way and part of the track to Worth Matravers is rocky and slippery.
Wednesday 16th – WAREHAM FOREST WALK
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 5.5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: TBC
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Bus: (No. 40) 09:00 from Swanage
Notes: If coming by train: 09:40 from Bournemouth; 09:17 from Poole
Exact meeting point to be decided. Likely to be along Northmoor Way – a maximum 10-minute walk from the train station. Forest and heathland walk utilising parts of the Sika Trail. Walking via Northmoor Park and Northport Heath.
Saturday 19th – WEST KNIGHTON CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 732 874 / DT2 8PG / shaver.presides.seat
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: Please contact the walk leader should you want a lift from Wareham (3 spaces)
Meet on the play/sports area Glebe Way, West Knighton, and park in the same road or adjacent roads. A two church walk from West Knighton via Winterborne Came and Whitcombe, returning to West Kinghton. The Whitcombe church interior has several wall paintings, including one of St Christopher, and a 13th-century Purbeck marble font. A fairly flat walk.
Wednesday 23rd – WORTH MATRAVERS AND BONVILS (MINCE PIE WALK)
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 4 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 974 776 BH19 3LE / unions.pianists.palaces
Leader: Rob Lobley – 07766 630453
Notes: Non-walkers are welcome to come along to the village hall at approx. 12.15pm and join those that have walked
Meet at Worth Matravers car park. Head south to Winspit then west along coastal path. After about one mile head inland along new National Trust path past Bonvils. Follow track and road back to Worth Matravers Village Hall to deboot and enjoy drinks and mince pies. There are two sets of ascending steps on this walk.
Saturday 26th – NO WALK TODAY (BOXING DAY)
Wednesday 30th – OLD HARRY CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:35
Distance: 4 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 038 824 / BH19 3AU / helpfully.broom.remarking
Leader: Jane Hamilton – 07935 074555
Bus: (No. 50) 10:05 from Swanage. Arrive 10:18
Park in National Trust car park by Bankes Arms in Studland (free for National Trust members). Walk via Glebeland Estate, Ballard Down to Old Harry and back into Studland. One steep climb up from Studland to Ballard Down. Optional pre-New Year’s Eve drink at Bankes Arms afterwards.
January Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the January 2027 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Saturday 2nd – KIMMERIDGE AND TYNEHAM CAP CIRCULAR
Start time: 09:45
Distance: 4.75 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SY 919 800 / hangs.confetti.anchovies
Leader: Rob Lobley – 07766 630453
Meet at Kimmeridge quarry car park. Head west along top path to Tyneham Cap. Head to coast at Brandy Bay and follow coastal path above Hobarrow Bay to Kimmeridge Bay. Then head inland to Kimmeridge Village and the quarry car park. Hopefully lovely coastal views on this walk.
Wednesday 6th – A NEW YEAR STROLL OVER NINE BARROW DOWN AND ROLLINGTON HILL
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 029 789 / BH19 1HB / ranted.playful.archduke
Leader: Stephen Williams – 07766 375151
Notes: A linear walk from Swanage to Corfe Castle. Possibly the leader’s favourite local walk
Meet at Swanage Station for a linear walk through New Swanage (second pick up at the former Ballard Stores at 10:20) and along the chalk ridge to Corfe Castle. One challenging climb. Return to Swanage by bus or train (if trains are running) or join the leader for a new year drink/meal in Corfe Castle.
Saturday 9th – THE DORSET GAP
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: ST 765 032 / DT2 7PN / paddle.convinced.coconut
Leader: Lesley Watts – 07359 479879
Notes: Car share if possible; leader will cover pickup from Northbrook Road lay-by, departing at 08:55, but will not return until after pub lunch
Meet outside The Fox Inn at Ansty having parked nearby or in the pub car park if visiting the pub after the walk. A circular hilly route with good views taking in the always muddy Dorsetshire Gap. Half a dozen stiles or so and some rough ground. Sticks recommended. Waterproof boots essential. Walk leader will lunch at The Fox Inn after the walk if you would like to join her (more details later).
Wednesday 13th – NEWTON AND GODLINGSTON HEATH CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 5.9 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 025 843 / BH19 3BL / oasis.turned.reactions
Leader: Jane Hamilton – 07935 074555
Bus: (No. 50) 09:25 from Swanage. Arrive 09:41
Notes: Parking in lay-by by the Goathorn Farm bus stop. Postcode is for Goathorn Farm.
Meet at Goathorn Farm bus stop for a pleasant walk through Studland and Godlingston Natural Nature Reserve including Newton and Kingwood Heaths. Fairly flat throughout with good gravel tracks. Views to Poole harbour on return leg. No stiles.
Saturday 16th – SWANAGE CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:05
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 031 788 / BH19 1DD / overruns.regress.sentences
Leader: Lesley Watts – 07359 479879
Notes: Free on-street parking in nearby roads. Start timed to allow arrival by bus from Wareham direction (No. 40) and short walk to Shore Road
Meet at the King Alfred Memorial on Shore Road, Swanage, for a walk that aims to be passable whatever the weather. Mainly pavements and paths but some tracks and fields. A couple of stiles.
Wednesday 20th – STRATTON DOWN CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 9 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 651 937 / DT2 9SR / socialite.tumblers.rods
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: Bring a snack for lunch break
Meet outside the Church of St Mary, Stratton. Park on adjacent roads. A circular walk around Stratton Down via Cretre Hill, Godmanstone, Forston and back to Stratton. Elevation gained 1159ft, but worth it for the surrounding views. Contact walk leader should you require a lift from Wareham (3 spaces).
Saturday 23rd – WEST LULWORTH CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 4 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 823 806 / BH20 5SG / garages.leaves.rebounded
Leader: Kevin & Jean Harradine – 0774 8338294
Starting from The Lulworth Stores, Church Road, West Lulworth (parking on the roadside and also in the main Lulworth car park 0.25 mile away). Walking mostly through countryside with stunning views and through shaded woodlands. No stiles, but fairly steep elevation at start (total elevation of route = 784ft). Grass underfoot and some trip hazards. Some road walking. Coffee break at half way.
Wednesday 27th – KINGSTON CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:35
Distance: 6.3 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SY 953 794 / coasted.buggy.settled
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Bus: (No. 40) 10:00 from Swanage; 09:35 from Poole
Meet at Houns Tout car park. Great inland and coastal scenery. Walk via West Orchard Farm, Bradle Farm and Swyre Head before returning to Kingston. Some steady climbs and rutted tracks. Be prepared for mud. Walking poles helpful. Some walking on quiet roads (no paths). The route to West Orchard Farm has eight stiles. Option for refreshments at Scott Arms after walk.
Saturday 30th – BRANKSOME CHINE, COY POND, BOURNE STREAM, SEAFRONT
Start time: 10:15
Distance: 6.2 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 065 896 / BH13 6LP / glee.flute.sting
Leader: Jane Bell – 07702 791749
Bus: (No. 50) 09:25 from Swanage
Meet and start from car park at base of Branksome Chine. No 50 bus from Swanage at 09:25 or from Bournemouth Square at 09:46, or £3.60 to park. Walk up Branksome Chine, then roads to Coy Pond past viaducts, then down Bourne stream / Bournemouth Gardens to seafront, and back along promenade to start point. Easy walk, no steep hills. Return buses at 14:05 or 15:05 to Swanage, or at 13:44 or 14:44 to Bournemouth.
February Walks
View, print or download a PDF copy of the February 2027 walks. This PDF contains walks information as originally published. Any changes to walks or cancellations will be emailed to members or shown in the list below.
Wednesday 3rd – SWANAGE TO SOUTH BARN LIME KILN AND RETURN
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 4 to 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 031 / 788 BH19 1DD / merge.panthers.orchids
Leader: Stephen Williams – 07766 375151
Bus: Walk leader will wait for people travelling on the No. 40 bus from Wareham (arriving 09:50 at Swanage station)
Notes: A variation on the leader’s previous hidden footpaths of Swanage walk
Meet outside Mowlem Theatre at 10:00 for an out and back walk to South Barn Lime Kiln, partially on urban paths and cut-throughs, many of which are not Rights of Way though all are regularly used by the public. Exact route will depend on the condition of paths, but will certainly include a stretch of Priests Way, Sunshine Walk, and hopefully some paths not done before.
Saturday 6th – UPTON HEATH CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 986 958 / BH21 3QN / shelf.unwraps.neat
Leader: Sean McLean – 07305 999082
Notes: Please bring a snack for the midway break
Meet and start from the free Springdale Road car park, Corfe Mullen. A circular walk around Upton Heath. One slight hill and no stiles. Good views of Poole Harbour.
Wednesday 10th – CORFE CASTLE / PURBECK RIDGE CIRCULAR
Start time: 10:30
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 959 824 / BH20 5DR / almost.achieving.pampering
Leader: Jane Hamilton – 07935 074555
Bus: (No. 40) 10:00 from Swanage. Arrive 10:23
Notes: Two stiles
Meet at Corfe Castle National Trust car park. Walk up and along the Purbeck Ridge with far reaching views, returning via the lane into East Creech turning right at junction with Furzebrook Road past the East Creech Memorial to climb back up onto the ridge back to the start point.
Saturday 13th – SNOWDROP WALK AROUND WITCHAMPTON & WITCHAMPTON ESTATE, WITH FIGURE OF EIGHT OPTIONS
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 8.3 miles (possibility of shorter options)
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: ST 989 065 / BH21 5AP / converged.guides.panther
Leader: Mike Cleaver – 07778 505168 & Penny Cleaver – 07870 437967
Notes: All day walk; please bring a packed lunch
Meet and start in Witchampton & Crichel Club/village shop car park. A lovely walk through fields and wooded areas full of snowdrops. Walking back to the Archway at Crichel, then along the Crichel Lake/stream where there are huge swathes of snowdrops. Back via Witchampton Mill and through the village to our start point. For a shorter 2.8-mile walk with the best of the snowdrops, meet at Crichel Archway and park just before it along the lane. Arrive for 1.30pm, TBC after recce. Alternatively, option to do just the first section to Crichel Archway (around 5.8 miles). Please let the leaders know if you plan on joining at Crichel Archway.
Wednesday 17th – BLOXWORTH, WHITEFIELD AND WEST MORDEN – SNOWDROP WALK
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 881 946 / BH20 7EG / servicing.skipped.mailbox
Leader: Brian Arnold – 07740 980056
Notes: It is hoped to offer tea and cake after the walk at the village hall – donations welcome. Confirmation will be sent by email before the walk
Park in Bloxworth Village Hall car park on right before church. Toilets will be available before the walk. N.B. Donation of £1 per car to Bloxworth Village Hall to be collected for use of car park. Walk via Woodlake, East Bloxworth, to Whitefield. Return via West Morden and Morden Lane. Gentle walk (a/d 350ft) over pasture and woodland. Several stiles. Hope to see lots of snowdrops.
Saturday 20th – SWANAGE – ROUND AND ABOUT
Start Time: 10:15
Distance: 5 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SZ 032 788 / BH19 1DD / merge.panthers.orchids
Leader: Barbara Pietrusiewicz – 07740 777800
Bus: (No. 40) 08:40 from Poole; (No. 50) 08:55 from Bournemouth
Notes: If travelling by bus from Bournemouth, please let walk leader know
Meet on Swanage seafront next to the Mowlem. Lovely views on walk to Peveril Point and across the Downs and Durlston Nature Reserve. Generally good, wide tracks. Steady uphill from Peveril Point until Durlston. Then reasonably flat until descent via the Priest’s Way back to Swanage. No stiles.
Wednesday 24th – CIRCULAR WALK FROM DEWLISH
Start time: 10:00
Distance: 5.8 miles
Location Grid Ref/Postcode/What3Words: SY 775 982 / DT2 7LU / pins.defected.skillet
Leader: Lesley Watts – 07359 479879
Notes: Car share if possible; leader will cover pickup from Northbrook Road lay-by, departing at 09:00, but will not return until after pub lunch
Park in road opposite All Saints Church in Church Street, Dewlish. A walk of ascents and descents, although none too challenging, and a dozen stiles. Mostly on good tracks and field paths with potential for some muddy patches in valley bottoms. Good waterproof boots recommended as some field paths indistinct in ankle-height grass. Walk leader will lunch at The Oak public house in Dewlish after the walk if you would like to join her. Please let her know in advance if you plan to stay as the landlady requires pre-orders for larger groups.
Saturday 27th – GOATHORN FARM BUS STOP TO CORFE (CASTLE INN)
Start time: 09:40
Distance: 6 miles
Location Grid Ref/What3Words: SZ 025 843 / oasis.turned.reactions
Leader: Ian Swanson – 07906 333799
Bus: (No. 50) 09:25 from Swanage bus station
Notes: People from further away wishing to come by car are advised to park in Swanage (Leader can suggest places to park for free)
Meet at Goathorn Farm bus stop on Ferry Road (there are a few parking spaces). Across Godlingston Heath towards Rempstone and then some quiet road walking to the bottom of Nine Barrow Down. Up and over the downs and then via Corfe commons to the Castle Inn for a drink or lunch. Precise route will depend on underfoot conditions. Bus (No. 40) back to Swanage. Not many stiles and some good views.