Poole Harbour

As the world’s second largest natural harbour (the first biggest being Sydney, a circuit of the harbour is a great idea for a Poole walk. Why not take a walk along the shore of the harbour and finish at the quay? Although just under 4 miles long, this is an easy walk and you’ll pass through the town centre of Poole if you’re ready to pause for a drink and something to eat before the end! With the views of the harbour as you stroll, this is one of the prettiest walks in Dorset.

Sandbanks to Swanage

For you South West Coast Path walkers, the 8 miles between Sandbanks and Swanage mark the very start (or end) of the Coast path, so it’s a great one. If you start this Sandbanks walk at South Haven Point you can follow the path along the  beach at Shell Bay. The path carries on along Studland Beach, up to Ballard Point from where you can admire spectacular views to Swanage. From here, it passes Peveril Point and ends on the Blue Flag Beach of Swanage.

Brownsea Island

This unique island has such a varied landscape that there are some brilliant choices of walks. A ferry service runs from Poole Quay and Sandbanks Beach throughout the summer, and the island’s diverse wildlife, plants and trails make it a haven for strollers. The island is owned by the National Trust, and it’s probably the best place for views of Poole harbour and the Purbeck hills. Look out for Red Squirrel too, as this rare species lives on the island.

Ham Common Nature Reserve

Ham Common Nature Reserve makes for a beautiful walk in Poole, as it’s home to a wide range of plants, flowers and wildlife. The nature reserve is a Special Site of Scientific Interest, and it’s a relatively easy walk with fantastic views.

Walkers at Ham Common enjoy peace and quiet, and often spot a variety of birds, brightly coloured heather and even fossil plants. Ham Common is one of very few areas in Britain where fossil plants are found, and they can show the patterns of plants that grew 55 million years ago!