Are you looking for the best walks in Bournemouth?
Well, look no further!
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, this stunning coastal town has lots to explore.
From peaceful hikes to scenic strolls, Bournemouth serves up some of the most beautiful nature walks in the UK.
So if you’re yearning for fresh air and outdoor adventure, here are 15 of the best walks in Bournemouth that you won’t want to miss.
1. Moors Valley Country Park And Forest
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is the perfect retreat.
Located only a short drive away from Bournemouth, this expansive area provides countless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and horse riding.
The park is home to an array of wildlife including badgers, deer, owls, and woodpeckers – making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
There are also plenty of ancient monuments scattered throughout the park for those keen to learn about its historic past.
The grounds offer fantastic views of the surrounding countryside as well as many tranquil spots to sit back and take in the beauty of your surroundings.
For those wanting to explore further afield, there are miles of paths and trails that can be followed through the forest.
Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or just want a peaceful stroll in the woods, Moors Valley has something for everyone.
And after all that walking, you can refuel at one of their onsite cafes before heading back home.
2. Upton Country Park
Transitioning from Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Upton Country Park is just as stunning.
Located on the south coast of Bournemouth, it is an idyllic park that boasts a range of activities for visitors.
From walking trails to bike paths, this park has something for everyone.
The walking trails are especially scenic and provide a peaceful escape into nature.
The routes range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes so there’s something to suit all fitness levels.
There’s also plenty of wildlife to spot along the way, making it a rewarding experience no matter how far you walk.
Upton Country Park also has some lovely picnic spots with amazing views across Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island.
It’s the perfect place for a family outing or a romantic afternoon with your loved one.
With its beautiful scenery and wide selection of outdoor activities, Upton Country Park is sure to be an unforgettable day out!
3. Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve
The Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve is a stunning area of natural beauty in Bournemouth.
This unique landscape offers spectacular views and incredible walking trails, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the outdoors.
With its rolling hills, lush green meadows, and sandy shoreline, there’s something here for everyone.
The reserve offers a variety of walking routes ranging from easy strolls along the beach to challenging hikes up the headland.
There are numerous paths that snake through the nature reserve, taking in a range of sights and experiences along the way.
From wildflower meadows to ancient woodland, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to scenic views.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an invigorating adventure, this place has something special in store.
So if you’re seeking some quality time with nature, why not take a trip to Hengistbury Head?
Here you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the British countryside and enjoy some truly unforgettable walks.
4. Boscombe Beach And Lower Gardens
The next destination for an enjoyable walk in Bournemouth is the stunning Boscombe Beach and Lower Gardens.
This area provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its tranquil beach and lush gardens.
The beach is a great spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, taking in views of the rolling waves and listening to the soothing sound of seabirds calling overhead.
The sand is soft and inviting, making it perfect for sunbathing or a picnic lunch with family and friends.
The lower gardens are also worth exploring.
Here, you’ll find an array of colorful flowers, shrubs, and trees, as well as many hidden pathways that lead to secret corners where you can sit back and admire the scenery.
There’s plenty to discover in this green oasis; it’s an ideal place to relax on a sunny day or take a romantic evening stroll.
Whether you’re looking for some peace and quiet or just want to get away from it all, this area is sure to provide an escape from everyday life.
5. Penn Hill To Branksome Chine Circular
The Penn Hill to Branksome Chine Circular walk is a great way to explore the beauty of Bournemouth.
Stretching over five and a half miles, it’s perfect for those who want to get out and experience nature.
You’ll be treated to stunning views of the beaches and clifftops that make up this part of the world.
With plenty of stops along the way, you can take in all the sights, sounds, and smells that your surroundings have to offer.
Beginning near Albion Road, you’ll start at a gentle incline as you make your way up Penn Hill.
On the way up, enjoy views of Bournemouth Bay and its surrounding areas.
Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across Poole Harbour and Sandbanks Beach before carrying on through Branksome Chine towards Canford Cliffs.
Along this section there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, so keep an eye out!
After winding through some woodland trails, you’ll eventually make your way back down toward your starting point, completing a circular route that offers something special whatever time of year you choose to visit.
6. Bournemouth Coast
Bournemouth’s vibrant coastline is a must-see for any traveler.
With its stunning views of the English Channel and miles of golden sand, it’s no wonder why locals flock to the shoreline.
From breezy cliff walks to leisurely strolls along the beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
The Coastal Path takes you on an unforgettable journey past seven miles of beaches, quaint seaside towns, and beautiful scenery.
You can take a break at any number of charming pubs or cafes for some delicious refreshments before continuing onward.
The path also offers spectacular views of Old Harry Rocks and the Isle of Wight in the distance.
For a longer trek, head east from Bournemouth Pier to Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve – an area rich in wildlife and natural beauty.
Here you can explore ancient woodlands and observe rare birds.
No matter which route you take, it’s sure to be an adventure worth remembering!
7. Oceanarium Loop From Boscombe
Leaving the stunning Bournemouth coast, one of the best walks in the area is the Oceanarium loop from Boscombe.
From here, hikers gain a unique perspective of the city and its surrounding nature.
The hike starts with a gentle climb up East Cliff Drive, offering incredible views of all four beaches and the pier.
Next, it’s onto Boscombe Overcliff Drive for a winding descent through lush greenery toward Boscombe Chine Gardens.
This beautiful park is home to an abundance of wildflowers, providing plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Then it’s onwards to Boscombe Pier and Beach; a perfect spot to stop for a picnic lunch or just to take in the sea air.
Finally, hikers make their way back up cliff drive before looping around to complete their journey at East Cliff beach.
Whether you’re looking for exercise or simply want to enjoy some fresh air, this walk provides both physical and mental refreshment that’s sure to leave you feeling invigorated and ready to explore more of what Bournemouth has to offer.
8. Boscombe Pier
Boscombe Pier is the ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
Offering stunning views of the sea and unrivaled access to the beach, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful escape.
From here, you can take in the beauty of the sun setting over the ocean, or watch as boats sail by.
There’s something truly special about being able to breathe in fresh sea air whilst taking in all that this part of Bournemouth has to offer.
It’s no wonder that Boscombe Pier is such an iconic attraction in town.
The pier itself is full of character; it’s adorned with bright lights and graffiti art, making it a vibrant place to explore.
Visitors can stop off at one of the many restaurants offering delicious cuisine, or simply sit and relax with a cup of coffee as they admire the view.
With plenty of benches along the way, visitors are sure to find an ideal spot for their break away from home.
Whether you’re looking for some exercise or just want to watch the world go by, Boscombe Pier promises a wonderful experience like no other!
9. Canford Cliffs
Leaving Boscombe Pier behind, the next stop on your journey of discovery is Canford Cliffs.
Its stunning backdrop of vibrant green vegetation, majestic cliff faces, and crystalline waters make it a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the very best of Bournemouth’s natural beauty.
Take a stroll along the dramatic coastline and savor the salty sea air as you take in the breathtaking views.
Look out over Poole Bay and admire views that stretch across to Old Harry Rocks and The Needles off the Isle of Wight.
Stop at one of many picturesque spots, where you can enjoy some peace and quiet before continuing your walk along the shoreline toward Sandbanks Beach.
Here you can indulge in some beach activities such as paddle boarding or kayaking, or just relax with a good book as you soak up the sun’s rays.
Whatever activity you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
10. Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve
Bournemouth is home to some of the most stunning walking trails in England, and Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve is no exception.
Situated just outside of Ringwood, this nature reserve offers a variety of landscapes and wildlife species for visitors to enjoy.
From wetland areas full of birdsong to open heaths with sweeping views, Blashford Lakes has something for everyone.
The reserve provides an abundance of paths and trails so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, you won’t be disappointed.
There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer, badgers, foxes, otters, and even butterflies.
You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one of the rare species that inhabit these areas.
Whichever route you choose, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery and breathtaking views throughout your journey.
At the end of your walk, take a few moments to relax at one of the many birds hides scattered around the reserve – perfect for birdwatching or just soaking up the peace and quiet.
Then head back into Bournemouth feeling refreshed and with wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
11. New Forest Northern Commons
The New Forest Northern Commons is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful, scenic walk.
Enjoy the stunning views of the beautiful heathland, with its blanket of purple heather and tranquil lakes.
Take in the sights and sounds of this unique landscape, where ponies roam freely and birdsong fills the air.
For a leisurely stroll, nothing beats a journey through the commons.
Meander along winding paths, taking time to explore every nook and cranny.
Spot wildflowers dotting the landscape while admiring majestic trees reaching up to the sky.
With its abundance of wildlife, this is an ideal spot for nature lovers to get lost in nature’s beauty.
12. Stourhead
Stourhead is a stunning national trust estate located in Wiltshire, England.
It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Bournemouth life.
The estate comprises more than 1,000 acres of magnificent gardens and woodland.
It’s an ideal place to explore on foot with its enchanting lake, historic temples, and grottoes, as well as plenty of wildlife.
The grounds are so inviting that you may forget the time and find yourself lost in their beauty for hours!
In addition to taking in the sights and sounds of Stourhead, there are also plenty of activities to choose from.
From bird-watching and cycling to picnicking by the lake or taking part in guided tours, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike – this is the perfect spot for it!
The gorgeous scenery combined with its peaceful nature makes it one of the best places to get away from it all.
So go ahead and enjoy the beauty that Stourhead has to offer – you won’t be disappointed!
13. Beaulieu National Motor Museum
With its beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, Stourhead is an enchanting place to explore.
But if you want to experience something different, the Beaulieu National Motor Museum is a must-see.
Located in Hampshire, this amazing museum has something for everyone.
From classic cars and racing cars to motorbikes and even military vehicles, there’s a wide range of vehicles to explore.
Visitors can take a guided tour or wander around independently, discovering the history of motorsport through interactive exhibits and displays.
There are also several special events throughout the year where you can learn more about different aspects of motoring heritage.
The museum also houses an impressive collection of original photographs that capture the spirit of motor racing from a bygone era.
The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to help answer any questions and make your visit even more enjoyable.
Beaulieu National Motor Museum is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon.
Whether you’re an avid car enthusiast or just looking for something new to do in Bournemouth, this museum promises an unforgettable experience full of fascinating sights and sounds!
14. Compton Acres
Compton Acres is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an enjoyable stroll in Bournemouth.
This stunning and diverse garden covers 10 acres of land, featuring a mix of formal gardens and informal pathways.
The garden includes a Japanese garden, an Italian Garden, and a Rock Garden, with plant life from all over the world.
With its variety of trees, plants, and flowers, it’s no wonder Compton Acres is so popular among visitors.
The winding paths meander through the lush vegetation – perfect for those seeking some serenity while they wander around.
You can easily spend hours exploring the grounds, taking in nature’s beauty at its finest.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the spring or summer months when the plants are in full bloom, you won’t be disappointed!
There are also plenty of spots to stop and rest while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Even if you’re not a keen gardener, Compton Acres is sure to delight you as you lose yourself in this spectacular paradise.
15. Highcliffe Castle
Highcliffe Castle is a breathtakingly beautiful place to explore, offering an array of trails and sights.
Set on the picturesque coastline, Highcliffe Castle is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike.
With its stunning views and rich history, it’s no wonder that this castle has become one of Bournemouth’s most popular sites for outdoor activities.
The grounds at Highcliffe Castle offer plenty of paths to explore, from woodland trails to open meadows.
Wander through the lush gardens, take in the vast sea views, or just relax in the shade – this is an oasis of tranquillity and natural beauty that will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
As you wander around, you’ll also get to learn about the fascinating history behind Highcliffe Castle and its former occupants.
Whether you decide to take a leisurely stroll or embark on a more challenging hike, Highcliffe Castle will provide an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss out on during your trip to Bournemouth.
Best walks in Bournemouth – Final Thoughts
Wrapping up our list of the 15 best walks in Bournemouth, we’ve seen some truly incredible sights.
From Moors Valley Country Park and Forest to Highcliffe Castle, there were plenty of beautiful places to explore–each one unique and stunning in its own way.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an all-day hike, you won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
What are some easy walks in Bournemouth?
Some easy walks in Bournemouth are the Canford cliffs loop from West Cliff, Fisherman’s Walk loop from Southbourne, and the Hengistbury visitor center loop from Hengistbury.
What are the best circular walks in Bournemouth?
Some of the best circular walks in Bournemouth are Branksome Chine circular, Upper Gardens circular, and Hengistbury Head circular.
What are some good family walks in Bournemouth?
Some good family walks in Bournemouth are Moors Valley Country Park, Upton Country Park, and Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve.