Walk with us: guided walks in Dorset
- Published:
- 10 March 2025
Looking to get active, explore nature or meet new people? Our guided walks are for you. Enjoy fresh air, stunning views and great company while discovering more about Dorset. Most walks are free, but booking is required - check the details for each walk to secure your spot.
Top guided walks near Dorchester
Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate (Return)
Join a trained guide for a scenic walk from Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate, passing through the beautiful Stinsford St Michael’s Church, the resting place of Thomas Hardy’s heart and both his wives.
22 July, 10.30am More details
Hardy Literary Landscape Walk
Starting at Thorncombe Woods Visitor Centre, this 2-mile walk explores the childhood landscape of Thomas Hardy. Along the way, you’ll hear readings and discussions linking Hardy’s words to the natural surroundings.
Dates from May - August More details
Wildlife Wander Around Hardy Monument (Family-Friendly)
Join National Trust ecology volunteers at Hardy Monument for an interactive wildlife walk, exploring local animals and plants. The walk ends with pond dipping. As part of the Dorchester Walking Festival, tickets are £3 per family and must be booked through their website.
17 May, 11am More details
Hardy Monument Circular Walk
This 9.5km circular walk takes in the Dorset landscape, including the Valley of Stones and Littlebredy, before returning to Hardy Monument car park. The walk takes approximately three hours.
17 May, 10.30am More details
Walking in the Footsteps of T.E. Lawrence
Explore key locations linked to T.E. Lawrence, the military strategist and author. This 6.5km walk includes a visit to his burial site and ends outside Clouds Hill, his retreat. The terrain can be boggy, and booking is essential.
15 May, 10am More details
Exploring Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis to Charmouth – Bus It Back
This 5km guided walk follows the South West Coast Path to Charmouth, taking about two hours (excluding the return bus journey). Walks run on the first Wednesday of each month from April to September. Free of charge, but you must pay for the bus. Booking in person at the Lyme Regis shop.
Dates from April - September More details
Lyme Regis Circular Loops
These free guided walks run on the second Thursday of each month from April to September, alternating between a 4km walk (April, June, August) and an 8km walk (May, July, September). Booking in person at the Lyme Regis shop.
Dates from April - September More details
Walks on the Golden Cap Estate
Green-Winged Orchids
Join the National Trust Volunteer Ecology Team for a guided walk to see Green-Winged Orchids and take part in the annual orchid count. Details to follow.
Dawn Chorus
Experience the magic of the dawn chorus on a guided walk around Golden Cap on 10th May. Details to follow.
Trees in Our Landscape
Join the ecology team at Langdon Woods for a 3km walk celebrating ancient trees on the Golden Cap Estate. This walk is free but requires booking. Details to follow.
Orchards Walk
Walk through the orchards of the Golden Cap Estate with an Orchard Champion Ranger and take part in traditional apple pressing. Details to follow.
Walks Near Bridport
Bluebells and Spitfire Walk
Explore Lewesdon Hill, visit the Spitfire crash memorial from 1942, and enjoy the bluebell-covered landscape.
26 April, 10am More details
Eggardon Foraging Walk
Join forager Mat Follas for a 2-mile foraging walk on Eggardon Hill, identifying seasonal plants. Dogs are not allowed due to livestock. Booking essential.
More details to follow.
Hive Beach to Cogden – Climate Walk
Learn about coastal erosion on this informative walk, linked to Big Green Week. Details to follow.
Cogden Meadows Walk
Celebrate National Meadows Day with a walk starting from the Cogden picnic tables at 10am. The walk includes discussions on local plants like sea kale, yellow-horned poppy, yellow flag iris and meadow rue.
Hillfort Walks & Festival of Archaeology Walks
Details to follow.
Walk with us FAQs
Who can walk with us?
All our walks are led by fully trained National Trust Walk Leaders. You’re welcome to join on your own or with friends.
Can we bring children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. It is up to the adult to decide if the walk is suitable for the child. Please note that our walks are not suitable for prams or pushchairs.
Walk Difficulty & Facilities
Some walks can be long and challenging. Most routes do not have access to toilets, cafés, or other facilities, so please come prepared.
How do I book my place?
All walks require advance booking. You can book online or in person at locations such as the Lyme Regis Shop or the Hive Beach National Trust Hut. If you need help with booking, please email Elizabeth.flight@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on most walks but must be kept on a lead at all times. However, dogs are not allowed on the Eggardon Foraging Walk due to livestock and the slow-paced nature of the event.
If a walk includes a visit to a National Trust property (such as Hardy’s Cottage, Max Gate, or Clouds Hill), please note that dogs are not allowed inside the houses but are welcome in the gardens.
We look forward to welcoming you on a walk!