If you’re looking for a great way to explore the natural beauty of Weymouth, then you’ll be spoilt for choice with the 15 best walks in and around the area.
From the stunning Chesil Beach to the lush green meadows of Maiden Castle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll around the Rodwell Trail or a more challenging hike up to Osmington Mills, you’ll find it all here.
So grab your walking boots and come explore the best that Weymouth has to offer.
Chesil Beach
Stretching eight miles long, Chesil Beach is a stunning sight to behold. Its sandy shoreline, backed by 18-meter-high shingle ridges, offers breathtaking views of the sea and the Jurassic Coast. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of spots to take a break and admire the beauty of the landscape.
The beach is a haven for wildlife, with wading birds feeding in the shallow waters and kite-surfers catching the waves. The beach is also a popular spot for anglers, with plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an energetic hike, Chesil Beach is the perfect place to explore.
Osmington Mills
The tranquil beauty of Osmington Mills will truly take your breath away. The hills of Dorset are alive with the sights of rolling fields, and the long stretch of coastline that adorns this rural paradise is sure to impress.
The walk from Weymouth to Osmington Mills is one of the most popular in the area, and while it can be a bit on the steep side, the views of the surrounding natural beauty are worth it. At the end of the walk, you are rewarded with the stunning views of the Osmington White Horse, a unique figure carved into the hillside.
Along the walk, you’ll find plenty of wildlife, with plenty of opportunities to spot some of the local birds and animals. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and you can even take a dip in one of the many picturesque coves along the way.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or something a bit more challenging, Osmington Mills is the perfect spot for a peaceful walk.
Nothe Gardens
Explore Nothe Gardens and be enchanted by its lush foliage and diverse wildlife.
This beautiful area is located in Weymouth, a popular tourist destination in the south of England. It offers a range of activities and attractions, including a children’s play area, a cafe, and a miniature railway.
The gardens are also home to a variety of wildlife, including an array of birds, butterflies, and the occasional fox.
Nothe Gardens is a great place for a leisurely stroll, and many visitors come here to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views of the surrounding area. The gardens also feature some interesting historical monuments, such as the Nothe Fort, which dates back to the 19th century.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon walk or a place to explore with the family, Nothe Gardens is the perfect spot.
The Rodwell Trail
Take a scenic journey along the Rodwell Trail and enjoy the spectacular views of South Dorset. The three-mile trail is located in the town of Weymouth, and it has been a popular walk for locals and visitors for many years.
It begins at the Nothe Gardens and meanders along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea, the harbour, and the surrounding countryside. The trail is well-marked with signs for cyclists, walkers, and joggers.
Along the route, there are benches and picnic tables, making it the ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or afternoon snack.
The trail continues through Ferrybridge and offers a stunning view of the Isle of Portland. It then continues along the coastline, passing by the ruins of the old Sandsfoot Castle before ending at the Wyke Regis recreation ground.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy a mix of beautiful scenery, wildlife, and the occasional glimpse of a boat sailing by.
The Rodwell Trail is an ideal spot to take a leisurely stroll and take in the beauty of South Dorset.
Maiden Castle
Admire the ancient Iron Age hill fort of Maiden Castle as you wander along the Rodwell Trail.
Located just a few miles outside of Weymouth, this impressive structure is one of the largest hill forts in Britain.
Constructed in 600 BC, the hill fort covers an area of more than 10 hectares and consists of two massive ramparts.
The inner rampart is made of earth and is believed to have been topped with a wooden palisade.
The outer rampart is made of chalk and is thought to have contained a wide, deep ditch.
With its thick walls, Maiden Castle was almost impregnable in its heyday.
As you make your way around the hill fort, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the Dorset countryside.
From the highest point, you can see the rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque coastline.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, Maiden Castle is the perfect destination for a walk.
With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, it’s easy to see why Maiden Castle is one of the best walks in Weymouth.
Weymouth Harbour
Leaving Maiden Castle behind, I headed towards Weymouth Harbour. This port has been in use since Roman times, and it is one of the oldest ports in the world.
Walking around it, I was struck by its beauty. Its bright blue waters and rolling waves, the colorful fishing boats that bobbed up and down, and the seagulls that swooped and squawked overhead. I could almost feel the history as I passed the old warehouses and grand buildings that line the docks.
It was a great spot to take in the sea air and admire the boats and the views. The South West Coast Path passes through the harbor area, and I enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
I passed the Jubilee Clock, a monument to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887, and the nearby Nothe Gardens, a sprawling green space with views out to the harbor.
The harbor is a great spot to take a break and relax while exploring Weymouth.
Portland Bill
From Weymouth Harbour, I headed towards the iconic Portland Bill, the southernmost point of the stunning Dorset coastline.
As I walked, I was surrounded by the sea air and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
On one side, I could see the beautiful harbour, with its picturesque seafront and the impressive Needles Eye archway.
On the other, I could see the majestic Portland Bill Lighthouse, standing proud against the horizon.
The views were breathtaking.
The walk to Portland Bill is full of beauty and history.
Along the way, I came across old ruins, dramatic cliffs, old-fashioned towers, and even a few gorgeous beaches.
It was a truly unforgettable experience, and I was grateful for the chance to take it all in.
The journey ended with a breathtaking view of the lighthouse, standing tall against a backdrop of the sea and sky.
It was an incredible sight to behold.
Abbotsbury Swannery
Discover the incredible Abbotsbury Swannery, a haven for thousands of Mute Swans living in harmony among the beautiful Dorset countryside.
A visit to the Swannery will take you on a journey of discovery, surrounded by beautiful views of the Jurassic Coast.
Abbotsbury Swannery has been in operation since the 11th century and is a rare sight to behold – the only managed colony of Mute Swans in the world.
The swans are free to roam the grounds, and visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the gardens and observe the swans from close quarters.
The swans are also cared for by the Swannery staff, who’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Swannery also offers a range of educational activities and events, making it the perfect place to learn about the fascinating species.
From feeding the swans to attending the annual Swannery Festival, there’s something for everyone at Abbotsbury Swannery.
And with a variety of nearby attractions, such as Chesil Beach and Portland Bill, this is the perfect spot for a day out.
Golden Cap
For those looking to explore the stunning Jurassic Coast, Golden Cap is a must-see destination. Situated on the highest point along the coast, the hill provides unparalleled views of the surrounding area.
On a clear day, visitors can take in the stunning vistas of the sea and the countryside stretching as far as the eye can see. The walk to the top is relatively easy, although it can be a bit of a challenge for those who are not used to longer hikes. It’s well worth the effort though, as the view from the summit is absolutely breathtaking.
The walk back down is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the Jurassic Coast in all its glory. Golden Cap is a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, providing an unforgettable experience for any outdoor enthusiast.
Castle Cove
Experience breathtaking views of Weymouth and beyond from the top of Castle Cove!
Starting at the beach, Castle Cove is a great spot for a leisurely hike and a stunning view.
The trail winds its way around the cove and up the hill to the top of the cliffs, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
As you ascend the trail, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, foxes, and wild birds.
The views of the sea, the coast, and the rolling hills beyond are truly spectacular.
At the top, the view stretches for miles and you can even spot the Isle of Portland in the distance.
Take your time exploring the area and enjoying the views before making your descent.
Castle Cove is a great spot for a leisurely walk and a stunning view, sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Portland Castle
Perched atop the cliffs is the historic Portland Castle, overlooking the coastline and providing a unique glimpse into the past. Built by Henry VIII in the 16th century, it was meant to protect the south coast from French and Spanish invasions.
Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds and take in stunning views of the coastline from the ramparts.
Inside the castle, you can explore the fascinating history of the area while admiring the many artifacts, such as the 16th-century kitchen, fireplaces, and numerous cannons. You can also explore the many passages and dungeons that make up the castle and its grounds, as well as the secret tunnels and secret stairways that were built to give the castle’s defenders an edge against any possible attackers.
On top of all this, Portland Castle is just a short walk away from Weymouth, so you can take in the sights of the historic town while you explore the castle grounds.
Lodmoor Country Park
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lodmoor Country Park, where lush, green views of the marshlands and the sea beyond await.
The park is a haven for bird watchers, with a wide variety of species making their home here.
You can explore the winding trails, where you’ll come across an array of plants and wildlife.
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, where you can take in the spectacular views of the marshland and Weymouth Bay.
There’s also a nature reserve with a wide array of habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
You may even spot some rare species, such as the marsh harrier.
The park also has a play area for children, a café, and a visitor center with interactive displays about the local area.
Whether it’s a tranquil stroll or an exciting wildlife adventure, you’ll find something to enjoy at Lodmoor Country Park.
Weymouth Bay
Take in the stunning views of Weymouth Bay on your visit to Lodmoor Country Park. The bay is located a stone’s throw away from the country park and offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town centre.
With a wide expanse of the sea stretching out to the horizon, this is a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or picnic. When the tide is out, the bay reveals a vast expanse of sandy beach full of shells and sea creatures to explore. When the tide is in, the water laps against the shore and fills the air with a calming rhythm.
You can also take a boat ride out to the nearby islands for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll or an adventure with the family, Weymouth Bay has something for everyone.
Radipole Lake
Explore Radipole Lake and discover its tranquil charm as you wander around its picturesque waters.
Located in the heart of Weymouth, the lake is a peaceful nature reserve with a rich history. It was once a medieval fishpond, and later became a popular spot for duck hunting.
The lake is now a haven for wildlife, with a variety of birds, bats, and other animals living among its lily-covered waters. Its lush vegetation provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk, as you take in the sights and sounds of nature.
Along the way, you can admire the views of the sea from the lake’s two bird watching hides.
The lake is also a great spot for fishing, as it is home to carp, bream, roach, and perch.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a spot of fishing, Radipole Lake is sure to provide a tranquil atmosphere and a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Fleet Nature Reserve
The Fleet Nature Reserve is a tranquil haven of diverse wildlife, offering a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Located in the heart of Weymouth, the reserve is made up of ancient woodlands, wetlands, and salt marshes, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
This beautiful area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
There are also plenty of stunning views of the Fleet lagoons, the Jurassic Coast, and Portland Harbour.
The Fleet Nature Reserve is a great spot for wildlife watching, with plenty of trails and hides to explore.
It’s also a great spot for a peaceful walk, with plenty of benches dotted around the reserve, perfect for taking a moment to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an exciting wildlife watching experience, The Fleet Nature Reserve is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
I’ve explored some of the best walks in Weymouth and there’s something for everyone.
Whether you want to take in the stunning views of Chesil Beach or explore the wildlife at Radipole Lake, there’s something for everyone.
From the peaceful trails of Nothe Gardens to the adventurous hikes of Maiden Castle, Weymouth has it all.
From short strolls to longer hikes, this town is the perfect place to get out and enjoy the fresh air and beauty of nature.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get walking!