Walk with us: guided walks in Dorset
- Published:
- 10 March 2025
Looking to get active, explore nature or meet new people? Our guided walks are for you. Enjoy fresh air, stunning views and great company while discovering more about Dorset. Most walks are free, but booking is sometimes required - check the details for each walk to secure your spot.
Top guided walks near Dorchester
*New for 2026* Walking in the paw prints of Wessex: Exploring the paths loved by Thomas Hardy and his faithful dog
Join us for a 2.5-mile stroll through the countryside near Hardy's home, Max Gate, following one of the writer’s favourite walks with his loyal four-legged companion.
Dates from March - October 2026 (excluding August)
For more details and to book your place: Walking in the paw prints of Wessex: Exploring the paths loved by Thomas Hardy and his faithful dog | National Trust
In the footsteps of Hardy's Childhood - Follow the link below to find out the dates for 2026. If you have a group who would like a bespoke walk organised please get in touch using the email below.
Starting at Thorncombe Woods Visitor Centre, this 2-mile walk explores the childhood landscape of Thomas Hardy. Along the way, you’ll hear readings and discussions linking Hardy’s words to the natural surroundings. This walk is a regular drop in so booking is not necessary. Follow the link below for the dates and times.
Dates from April - September In the footsteps of Hardy's childhood | National Trust
Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate (Return)
Join our trained guide for a scenic walk from Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate, passing through the beautiful Stinsford St Michael’s Church, the resting place of Thomas Hardy’s heart and both his wives.
17 June, 23 July, 25 August and 19 September all starting at 10.30am from outside Hardy's Cottage, follow this link for more details and to book a place Thomas Hardy Walk - Hardy's Cottage to Max Gate (return) | National Trust
Walking in the Footsteps of T.E. Lawrence - we are delighted to give you the dates of the three walks we have planned for 2026. If you have a group who would like a bespoke walk organised please get in touch using the email below.
Explore key locations linked to T.E. Lawrence, the military strategist and author. This 3.5 hour walk which includes a visit to his burial site and ends outside Clouds Hill, his retreat. The terrain can be boggy if weather has been wet before hand. Booking is essential. TE Lawrence Walk 2026 | National Trust
Dates for 2026 are: 21 May, 9 July and 10 September. All start in Moreton at 10am.
Walking in the Footsteps of our Ancestors - Watch this space for details of the next walk planned as part of the 2026 Festival of Archaeology. If you'd like our expert guides to lead this walk for your group, at a time and date to suit, please get in touch.
This is a 3.5 hour walk around the incredible landscape where the Hardy Monument sits. Starting at10.30am you can spend time with our expert guides who will talk to you about all things hisorical that we pass through or near.
#DorsetFestivalofArchaeology
Exploring Lyme Regis - 2026
This programme of regular, monthly walks around Lyme Regis and beyond are designed to have a focus on exercise, wellness, and being outdoors. People are invited to come for just one walk or take part in all the walks to create a monthly (or twice monthly) routine.
Lyme Regis to Charmouth – Bus It Back
This 5km guided walk follows the South West Coast Path to Charmouth, taking about two hours (excluding the return bus journey). Walks run on the first Wednesday of each month from April to September. Free of charge, but you must pay for the bus. Book in person at the Lyme Regis shop or call on 01297 445828.
Dates from April - September.
For more details follow this link: Bus it Back - Lyme Regis to Charmouth Heritage Centre | National Trust
Lyme Regis Circular Loops
These free guided walks run on the second Thursday of each month from April to September, alternating between a 4km walk (April, June, August) and an 8km walk (May, July & September). Booking in person at the Lyme Regis shop or calling: 01297 44 5828.
The walks are designed to have a focus on exercise, wellness, being outdoors and social connection, it is part of a programme of walks which depart Lyme Regis shop and people are invited to take part in as many walks as they like.
Dates from April - September The Lyme Regis Circular Loops 2026 | National Trust
Jane Austen Guided Walk - August 6th and August 13th 2026.
If you'd like our expert guides to lead this walk for your group, at a time and date to suit, please get in touch.
Lyme Regis was one of Jane Austen's favourite holiday locations. To celebrate her love of Lyme Regis the National Trust are offering a series of short walks along the Cobb with readings from Persuasion. Departing from outside the National Trust Gift shop these walks are perfect for any Austen fan, people wanting to learn more or those who are curious about her connection to the town.
You can book for FREE by calling the Lyme Regis gift shop on: 01297 445828 or by popping in and speaking to the team.
More details can be found here: In The Footsteps of Jane Austen | National Trust
Both days will see three walks departing at: 10.00, 12.30 and 15.00.
Walks on the Golden Cap Estate
Green-Winged Orchids - Monday 4th May 2026
Join the National Trust Volunteer Ecology Team for a walk to see Green-Winged Orchids.
Meet our ecology team in the Green-winged orchid meadows and speak to experts about this rare flower and the reasons for its success on the Golden Cap Estate. Park at Stonebarrow car park and follow the signs down to the meadow where our National Trust team will be on site to meet you.
Walks near Bridport
Hive Beach to Cogden – Climate Walk - these walks will start on 28th April (11:00 - 13:00) and will run monthly on the last Tuesday in the month until Spetember.
Check back here soon for more details. If you have a group who would like a bespoke walk organised please get in touch using the email below.
Learn about coastal erosion on this informative walk.
Take you on a walk from Hive Beach to Cogden and back. Although short in distance (just 4km) this may take around 2 hours due to the things we will be pointing out and discussing. Meet at the National Trust Car Park Hut at Hive Beach at 11am.
Hillfort Walks & Festival of Archaeology Walks - 29th July 2026 at Cogden.
If you'd like our expert guide to lead this walk for your group, at a time and date to suit, please get in touch.
More details to follow soon.
#DorsetFestivalofArchaeology
Bluebells and Spitfire Walk - 9 May 2026
Explore Lewesdon Hill, visit the Spitfire crash memorial from 1942, and enjoy the bluebell-covered landscape.
Walk with our ecology team to learn what a special place Lewesdon is: 9 May - more details to follow
Walk with us FAQs
Who can walk with us?
All our walks are led by fully trained National Trust Walk Leaders. You’re welcome to join on your own or with friends.
Can we bring children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. It is up to the adult to decide if the walk is suitable for the child. Please note that our walks are not suitable for prams or pushchairs.
Walk Difficulty & Facilities
Some walks can be long and challenging. Most routes do not have access to toilets, cafés, or other facilities, so please come prepared. Often it is the remoteness of the places we walk that makes them to special and beautiful.
How do I book my place?
All walks require advance booking (with the exception of the Hardy Literary Landscape Walk, which allow you to just turn up on the day). You can book online or in person at locations such as the Lyme Regis Shop or the Hive Beach National Trust Hut. If you need help with booking, please email elizabeth.flight@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on most walks but must be kept on a lead at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the Eggardon Foraging Walk due to livestock and the slow-paced nature of the event.
If a walk includes a visit to a National Trust property (such as Hardy’s Cottage, Max Gate, or Clouds Hill), please note that dogs are not allowed inside the houses but are welcome in the gardens.
We look forward to welcoming you on a walk.