The Dorset Holiday Specialists

The South Dorset Ridgeway is a scenic and historically rich walking route that runs roughly parallel to the coast between West Bexington and Osmington Mills, just inland from the Jurassic Coast. Stretching around 17 miles (27 km), it follows a chalk ridge offering sweeping views over the sea to the south and the rolling countryside of Dorset to the north.

This elevated route is part of the larger Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is often described as a quieter, inland alternative to the more well-known coast path—with just as much to discover.

You have the option to walk the whole path at 17 miles or this shorter, more popular route at 10 miles:

Starting above Weymouth the first place of interest you reach on your walk is Bronkham Hill which is dotted with Bronze Age barrows and one of the most significant prehistoric landscapes in the UK. You’ll see burial mounds, field systems and evidence of ancient settlement.

You then climb to Hardy’s Monument which was erected in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Hardy (of Trafalgar fame). This 72-foot tower is a prominent landmark and offers a good place to pause and take in wide views across Dorset.

You then take a short detour from the path to visit the Hell Stone, a notable Neolithic dolmen (burial chamber) which is one of the best surviving examples of its kind in southern England.

You have the option now to shorten your route by dropping down to the pretty village of Abbotsbury with is medieval tithe barn, St. Catherine's Chapel built as a retreat for the monks from the abbey which once formed the village as well as galleries, pubs and tea shops.

Otherwise, you walk on, climbing Abbotsbury Castle, an Iron Age hillfort with panoramic views of Chesil Beach and The Fleet Lagoon. You then follow the ridge to its ending place on the beach at West Bexington where you can grab a drink at The Manor House Hotel whilst waiting for your car to collect you.