Worth Matravers

Now, we go from the high profile to a lesser known walk on Purbeck. The pretty village of Worth Matravers is a great spot to start a walk along the coast. The walk to St Aldhelm’s Head is a 5 mile, circular walk and passes the windswept and mysterious St Aldhelm’s Chapel.

This tranquil chapel sits on the headland, and its claimed that it was built by a grieving father in memory of his daughter who drowned at sea in a storm. Its roots have been traced to as early as the thirteenth century, and it was reopened in 1874.

Durlstone Country Park

If you love wildlife then look no further than Durlstone Country Park when planning a Purbeck walk! This 280 acre expanse of Dorset landscape offers some of the best views Dorset has to offer, and spectacular wildlife.

There are plenty of walks to choose from, and many of them include breathtaking sea views. Take your binoculars along as you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins out at sea, and pop into the visitor centre before you start for more information on the park.

Lawrence Trail

This Purbeck walk veers inland, swapping sweeping Jurassic coast for winding country lanes and woodland. The Lawrence of Arabia Trail is just under seven miles, but it can be easily split into four separate walks if you fancy a shorter one.

Most of the walk sticks to fairly smooth tracks and gravel and there are no obstacles to climb. The trail passes Cloud Hill, where Lawrence lived after retreating from the limelight, St Nicholas Church where his funeral was held and Bovington, where he joined the RAF.

Durdle Door

Let’s start with one of the Jurassic Coast’s most known and photographed landmarks, Durdle Door. The striking rock arch juts out to sea, and makes a great idea for a Purbeck walk during your stay.

The walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most trodden trails, and although lengthy at nearly seven miles the stunning coastal views make it an exhilarating one to say the least. If you decide to wander this one with your dog, please keep him on a lead as there are some very sudden cliff drops throughout.