Suggested One Day Itinerary

The Classic Walk to Old Harry Rocks and Studland

Distance: Approximately 8 miles (13km) return
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: First-time visitors and stunning coastal views

After a hearty breakfast at The Pines Hotel, lace up your walking boots and head north along the South West Coast Path. Speak to Reception to gain access to the residents only access gate. Almost immediately you’re rewarded with sweeping views across Swanage Bay before climbing onto Ballard Down.

As you gain height, take time to look back. The views across Swanage, the Isle of Purbeck and the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast are simply unforgettable.

Before long you’ll reach one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks: Old Harry Rocks. These iconic chalk sea stacks mark the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast and make the perfect spot for a few photographs or a quiet moment watching seabirds soar above the cliffs.

Continue downhill into the village of Studland, where you’ve earned a well-deserved refreshment stop – you’ll find a small selection of beach café’s, a pub, a restaurant and a village shop to re energise.

Spend a little time wandering along Studland’s sandy beaches before retracing your steps back to Swanage. Walking the same route in reverse offers completely different views, especially as the afternoon light catches the chalk cliffs.

Back at The Pines Hotel, there’s nothing quite like enjoying dinner or a drink in the garden after a day entirely powered by your own two feet.

Helpful tips:

Bring your reusable water bottle and our team will be happy to fill it up for you before setting off. Travelling on foot keeps your carbon footprint to a minimum while allowing you to enjoy the landscape at its natural pace.

If you’re bringing your dog along with you to enjoy the walk, please note that there is no fencing or barriers along the cliff edge therefore keeping them on a lead is highly recommended.

As an alternative to walking back to Swanage, the Number 50 public bus from Bournemouth stops in Studland village and will drop you at the end of our road (Burlington Road).