Looking for a scenic yet challenging walk along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset? The hike from Weymouth to Durdle Door is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 9.5 miles along the South West Coastal Path, this route features uneven terrain, elevations reaching up to 1,100 feet, and breathtaking views of the South Coast, making it a rewarding adventure for experienced walkers.
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It should be noted that this isn’t an easy walk, and nor is it one to attempt without having some walking experience. Along the walking route there will be four locations with toilet facilities.
We also recommend using walking poles
Parking is available at Weymouth at Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth, DT4 7SX which charges between £9 and £15 per day. This is also where you can find Weymouth Sealife Centre. Considering if you wish to complete the walk to Durdle Door and back to Weymouth again, the walk would take you around 8 hours to complete.
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Weymouth To Osmington Mills
The first section of the walk starts in Weymouth where you have access to car parking and public toilets. You will walk out of the carpark and turn left to walk along the esplanade. The road veers to the left after a mile or so on an incline along Bowleaze Coveway until you reach Fantasy Island.
Walking through Fantasy Island and towards the derelict Riviera Hotel, you will join the South West coastal path. Climb some steps and follow the path towards Osmington.
This stretch of the coastal path will take you past the PGL at Osmington. This section is of moderate level with slight inclines across fields. There is a stile to navigate as well.
The Smugglers Inn at Osmington is a location available with public toilets opposite the pub, and a nice spot to stop for a drink or pit stop. This section of the walk is just short of 5 miles.
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Osmington Mills To Ringstead Bay
Leaving the Smugglers Inn, walk towards the rear of the pub garden and join the coastal path again. This section of the walk is moderately easy and around 3 miles in length.
You will possibly encounter some cattle as you have to cross a field on this section just behind the Smugglers Inn. Between Osmington and Ringstead the path goes inland offering shade if the elements are against you.
There are a couple of stiles to master along this section, but generally this is the easiest section. You will arrive at Ringstead Bay near the carpark and public toilets. There is also a kiosk selling refreshments.
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Ringstead Bay To Durdle Door
The Ringstead Bay to Durdle Door section of the walk is without a doubt the toughest in terms of elevation and exposure to any elements. Walking poles are a great idea for this section.
The stretch is only just over 3 miles in length along the South West coastal path, however it’ll probably take you the longest to navigate due to the hills.
Between Ringstead and Durdle Door there are three large peaks to navigate with the last one being the most difficult. Personally I find it easier to walk in this direction, than it is to walk from Durdle Door back to Ringstead bay.
Leaving Ringstead Bay along the coastal path, you will encounter an averagely steep incline that may feel as though it’s never ending. This isn’t one of the three inclines however you will come across soon.
The elevation increases at this point in the walk, however you are treated to some stunning views and it’s difficult not to stop and take lots of photographs.
As with any walk along the coastline, make sure to stay away from the edge. Some parts of the path do get quite close to the edge so care is always needed.
Parts of the path between Ringstead and Durdle Door have been diverted through fields away from the edge due to erosion. The diversions are clear to follow.
The path is very straightforward to follow, and you will welcome the sights of the arch at Durdle Door. You have a little way to go up another hill if you want to reach Durdle Door holiday park however.
This is probably the least forgiving hill for your tired legs at this point. Your rewards at the end are toilets and a snack bar with seating.
If you’d like to enjoy a shorter walk in the area why not discover the walk between Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
A shorter but challenging walk can also be completed between Lulworth Cove and Mupe Bay.
If you’re thinking of completing a hike along the Jurassic Coast across differing terrain, you should consider your walking attire, footwear and essentials items to take with you. I recommend taking:-
- A rucksack with plenty of water / or a water bladder
- Mobile phone with full charge and charged power bank in case of emergency
- Decent walking boots (not new ones for this walk)
- Walking socks (wool based are good for letting your feet breathe)
- Snacks to keep your energy up
- Walking poles are a good idea to help along both the inclines and descents.
- Light waterproof jacket in case of bad weather / sun block and hat in case of good weather.
- Travel first aid kit including plasters in case you get blisters on your feet and need to stop.
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Done this walk several times as well as the whole of the dorset coastal walks until I was 75. Now 82 I can’t manage them anymore but so pleased that I had the privilege to have done them.