10 locations in Dorset perfect for a lockdown walk

The Government has permitted people to leave the house for exercise, such as for a walk, during the second lockdown.

With shorter days and longer nights, the need to get outside for some Vitamin D and fresh air is more important than ever during these cold Autumn days.

Dorset Echo has rounded up a list of places you can visit for a walk during lockdown in Dorset.

If you do go for a walk, remember to follow social distancing measures, wash your hands with hand sanitiser and wear masks when appropriate.

1) Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens has remained open for visitors to enjoy fresh air and exercise during and take in its beautiful flowers and gardens.

Vistors on TripAdvisor in recent months have praised the gardens, calling it “lovely” with “very well laid out with an easy to follow path.”

One reviewer said: “The walkway takes you through the tropical splendour of the gardens, the initial part reminded me very much of gardens in Singapore, through to the view over Chesil beach and then the wetlands.”

A spokesman for Abbotsbury Tourism said that due to social distancing measures, visitors must pre-book their visit to the beautiful scenery.

He said: "The Gardens can be enjoyed safely by visitors with the safety measures that have been in place since reopening in June, including social distancing, enhanced cleaning and limits on visitor numbers.

"Mandatory pre-booking remains in place, and those wishing to visit the gardens must book a time slot online at www.abbotsburytickets.co.uk"

2) Badbury Rings

Badbury Rings, located in Blandford Forum, is one of Dorset’s eighteen Iron Age hillforts, rich in history, flora and fauna.

The rings, which hold the secrets of past civilisations, sit 100 metres above sea level and offer sweeping views across Dorset.

It is thought the inner most ring dates from around 500 - 600 BC.

Visiting Badbury Rings is the perfect opportunity to explore its history and enjoy the Dorset countryside.

3) Old Harry Rocks

There are some stunning views of the Jurassic Coast and unique rock formations can be seen on this walk.

The fresh sea air can help blow away the cobwebs as you walk along the rugged coastal path.

This walk is also dog friendly, and takes you on a circular tour of pubs in the area.

The walk begins at South Beach car park and will take you along a path full of breathtaking views, from the Pinnacle Stack to Ballard Down and through Glebeland Estate.

4) Kingston Lacy

This popular spot was fully closed during the first lockdown. But this time the garden, parkland, take away café and toilets at Kingston Lacy are open.

However, you will need to book your visit in advance. Visitors are warned that if they turn up without a booking, they will be turned away.

5)Corfe Castle

Managed by National Trust, the historic castle is currently closed during the second national lockdown but its car park, takeaway café and toilets at Castle View will remain open.

But this still doesn’t mean you cannot have an awe-inspiring walk around this area.

The silhouette of Corfe Castle dominates the surrounding landscape ensuring a dramatic backdrop for any walk.

Find your favourite view from the nearby Purbeck Hills, Corfe Common or Hartland Moor.

Parking, café shop and toilets are available at Castle View visitor centre with takeaway only food and drink.

6) Studland

There’s a secret woodland walk about a mile long which starts from the Discovery Centre car park at Knoll Beach.

At this time of year you can also spot deer and birdlife as well as enjoying the autumnal colours.

Make sure you wrap up warm!

7) Durdle Door

If you ever want to go for a walk in Dorset, a scenic walk around Durdle Door and West Lulworth is always a safe bet.

The Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door walk is just over a mile long and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, with walkers taking in some stunning views.

You can see the iconic, white limestone cliffs, golden sand on the beach and watch the sea's crashing waves.

Car parks at Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door remain open during lockdown.

If you need a refreshment, mobile catering services at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove remain open for takeaway refreshments.

8) Symondsbury Estate

The popular West Dorset estate has partly closed its doors during lockdown but its walking trails and free car park remain open

There is plenty of space to roam and places to sit while adhering to social distancing measures.

You could climb the iconic Colmers Hill for 360 views of West Dorset and East Devon or just explore its farmland and ancient woodland.

Symondsbury Kitchen will be open between Thursday until Monday from 10am to 3pm for takeaway lunches, cakes and pastries, and hot and cold drinks.

Its food shop will remain open during the same time period to support the local community with essentials, food and drink.

9) West Bay

You won't get a warm day on the coast, you will be left awestruck by the views that West Bay offers.

There are miles of cycle routes and walking trails that allow you to explore and take in the stunning surroundings.

A visit to West Bay and also its shops is always a safe bet on an Autumn day.

Just be aware of the people making Broadchurch references.

10) St Aldhelm's Head - South West Coast Path walk

This walk begins in the picturesque village of Worth Matravers and later joins the South West Coast Path above Chapman’s Pool.

The 5.1 mile walk includes a round-up of assorted fascinating features around a limestone headland where the chalk grasslands are rich in wildflowers.

The angular caves and tunnels in the vertical cliffs are home to the rare greater horseshoe bat.

Along the way, you can also take a detour to St Aldhelm's Chapel, dates back to the thirteenth century.

The chapel is unusually aligned, with its corners - and not its walls - facing the four compass point.

The walk comes to an end when you continue along Hill Bottom to the next footpath towards Worth Matravers, heading to your right below the quarries.