Old Harry Rocks walk
Take in breathtaking views of the Jurassic coast and unique rock formations on this circular coastal trail from South Beach in Studland, with Celtic earthworks and plenty of wildlife to enjoy along the way.
Near to
Studland BayStart point
South Beach car park, Studland, Dorset grid ref: SZ038824Trail information
Beware of cliff edges
Beware of sheer cliff edges on and approaching Old Harry Rocks.
Total stages: 8
Total stages: 8
Start point
South Beach car park, Studland, Dorset grid ref: SZ038824
Stage 1
From the car park walk down the road past the Bankes Arms pub and turn left by the public toilets on to the path signed for Old Harry.
Stage 2
From Old Harry follow the coast path up a gentle rise, keeping well back from the sheer cliff edge.
Old Harry Rocks from the South West Coast Path, Dorset | © National Trust/Will Wilkinson Stage 3
At the first gate, keep to the cliff top path. There's a good variety of chalk grassland flowers in the short turf, but you'll need to go down on hands and knees to best enjoy them. Look back to enjoy a fine view of the Pinnacle stack.
Peregrine falcon near Old Harry Rocks, Dorset | © National Trust/Flickpicpete Stage 4
Go through a farm gate and head straight on past earthworks and along Ballard Down.
Greater black backed gull, Studland Bay | © National Trust/P Dean Stage 5
When you get to a junction with a sign on your left for Swanage and a stone bench on your right, turn right down the hill towards Studland.
Stage 6
Follow the road down through the Glebeland estate.
Stage 7
Go straight on at the crossroads, following the sign for the church.
Stage 8
At the end of the lane, go through the gate into the churchyard. Pass the church on your right then turn immediately right and follow the footpath back to your starting point.
End point
South Beach car park, Studland, Dorset grid ref: SZ038824
Trail map
Old Harry Rocks trail map | © Crown and copyright database rights 2012 Ordnance Survey 100023974
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