Great Walks in West Lulworth

There are some wonderful well-known and scenic walks around Honeysuckle Cottage due to the area’s dramatic landscape. West Lulworth is in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, an UNESCO World Heritage site, with stunning cliffs, beaches and countryside to explore. Here are 10 walks in and around our beautiful village that you can enjoy from the cottage - many are just moments from the front door!

1. Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Circular Walk

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)

• Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: This is one of the most popular walks in the area, offering spectacular coastal views. Start at Lulworth Cove, follow the path to Durdle Door, and return via the cliff-top path to Lulworth Cove. It’s a short but rewarding walk, famous for the iconic limestone arch at Durdle Door.

2. Lulworth Cove and White Nothe Walk

• Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)

• Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate to hard

• Highlights: This walk starts from Lulworth Cove and takes you along the cliff tops to White Nothe, a striking headland. The path offers sweeping views of the coast and takes you through peaceful countryside.

3. The South West Coast Path: Lulworth Cove to Weymouth

• Distance: 8 miles (12.9 km)

• Duration: 4 - 5 hours

• Difficulty: Hard

• Highlights: This longer route takes you along the South West Coast Path, offering dramatic views of the coastline, including famous landmarks like Weymouth Bay and the Isle of Portland.

4. Lulworth Castle and Parkland Walk

• Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)

• Duration: 1.5 hours

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: Explore the Lulworth Castle grounds with its parkland, woods, and farmland. This is a lovely, gentle walk through the grounds of the castle with plenty of opportunity to enjoy local flora and fauna.

• Owners Tip - Be sure to take some 20p coins; you can get some Peacock feed for the birds.

5. Kimmeridge Bay and Cliffs Walk

• Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

• Duration: 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Start at Kimmeridge Bay, a famous spot for fossil hunting, and follow the coastal path up to the Kimmeridge Cliffs, offering stunning views of the bay and beyond. You can also explore the Kimmeridge Marine Conservation Zone along the way.

6. Chapman's Pool to St. Aldhelm's Head

• Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)

• Duration: 2.5 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: This coastal walk offers panoramic views over Chapman’s Pool, a secluded bay, and continues to St. Aldhelm's Head. Enjoy cliffs, valleys, and panoramic sea views along this wild stretch of the coast.

• Owners Tip - Keep your eyes peeled for the seals.

7. Lulworth Cove to the Fossil Forest

• Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)

• Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Walk from Lulworth Cove along the coastline towards the Fossil Forest, a fascinating geological feature with ancient tree stumps exposed on the shoreline. The walk offers dramatic views over the sea and surrounding cliffs.

8. The South West Coast Path: Lulworth to Osmington Mills

• Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)

• Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: This coastal walk takes you past Swanage Bay, Chapman's Pool, and the Osmington Mills. A bit more challenging but rewarding, with spectacular views over the English Channel.

9. Swyre Head and The Purbeck Hills

• Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8 km)

• Duration: 3 hours

• Difficulty: Hard

• Highlights: Starting at Swyre Head, this walk takes you through the rolling hills of the Purbeck Hills, offering breathtaking views over the Dorset countryside. It’s a more inland walk, providing a different perspective of the landscape.

10. West Lulworth to Mupe Bay Circular Walk

• Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)

• Duration: 2 hours

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: This is our favourite walk in the area, with a cove accessible only via foot or boat, and you can often be the only people in the bay.  Pack a picnic and enjoy this wonderful, quite beach.

Helpful Tips for Walking in West Lulworth:

• Wear sturdy footwear, as many of the coastal paths can be steep and uneven.

• Check the weather before heading out, as conditions can change quickly along the coast.

• If you plan to walk on the Lulworth Ranges, check the government website for opening times.  

• Some paths may have wildlife restrictions, especially during nesting seasons or lambing periods, so keep an eye out for signs.

• Be mindful of local conservation efforts and stick to marked paths.

Many of these routes link to the South West Coast Path, the UK’s longest national trail, which provides further opportunities for long-distance coastal walks. We have a selection of walking maps and books available at Honeysuckle Cottage which show the routes for these walks in and around West Lulworth.

Ready to book a stay at our beautiful self catering cottage in West Lulworth?  Contact us to check availability.