Walk with us: guided walks in Dorset
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
- Dates from March - October 2026 (excluding August). 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.Book your place
- In the footsteps of Hardy's Childhood
- 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. If you have a group who would like a bespoke walk organised please get in touch using the email below.Dates and times
- Hardy’s Cottage to Max Gate (return)
- 17 June, 23 July, 25 August and 19 September all starting at 10.30am from Hardy's Cottage. 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.Book your place
- Walking in the footsteps of T.E. Lawrence
- 21 May, 9 July and 10 September. All start in Moreton at 10am. 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.Book your place
- *Coming soon* 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.
Exploring Lyme Regis
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
- Dates from April - September. 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.Book your place
- 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.Book your place
- Jane Austen Guided Walk
- August 6th and August 13th 2026, walks departing at: 10.00, 12.30 and 15.00. 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. 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. You can book for FREE by calling the Lyme Regis gift shop on: 01297 445828 or by popping in and speaking to the team.Book your place
Walks on the Golden Cap Estate
- Green-Winged Orchids
- On 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
- Starting on 28th April (11:00 - 13:00) and will run monthly on the last Tuesday in the month until September. Meet at the National Trust Car Park Hut at Hive Beach at 11am. Learn about coastal erosion on this informative 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 discussing. 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.
- Hillfort Walks & Festival of Archaeology Walks
- 9th 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.
- 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. More details to follow.
Frequently asked questions
We look forward to welcoming you on a walk.