The Best Places For Walkies With The Dog In Dorset

For dog-friendly holidays, Dorset can’t be beaten, and one of the reasons is the wide range of fantastic walking routes available. Whether you’d prefer to stroll along the magnificent Jurassic Coast with your canine companion, or enjoy the breathtaking countryside views, this scenic county is guaranteed to have something for you and your pet. Here are some of our favourite walks in the area.

Golden Cap

The clifftops at Golden Cap are a destination well suited to dog-friendly holidays.Dorset is famed for the rugged beauty of the Jurassic Coast, and this is the highest point along it, offering stunning views, bracing coastal air and windswept scenery alike, as well as plenty of space for your dog to run and play.

The 4.5-mile circular route up to Golden Cap is part of the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile walking trail which takes in much of the English coastline. Set out from the waterfront hamlet of Seatown (note the dog-friendly Anchor Inn for refreshments afterwards), and make your way along the route up the cliffs. There are some steep climbs along the way, but the view at the end makes it all worthwhile.

You should take care to keep your dog under control near the cliff edge, and watch out for cattle in some of the fields, but other than that, this walk is definitely the perfect way to tire out the family pet!

Thorncombe Wood

Those looking for a woodland walk will find everything they want in Thorncombe Wood. Ideally suited to dog-friendly holidays, Dorset can be seen in all its natural glory on the wonderful walking trails here. There are 26 acres for you and your dog to explore, and if that’s not quite enough space, the area connects up to Puddletown Forest, another varied woodland area that’s perfect for a pleasant stroll.

There’s also a visitor centre with information about the area and a dog-friendly cafe. In addition to the woods, walking routes lead out to the more open Black Heath and Rushy Pond, though dogs should be kept on a lead in these areas to avoid disturbing the wildlife.

North Dorset Trailway

Built along the path of an old railway line which was closed down in 1966, this walking trail runs from Sturminster Newton to Spetisbury, passing through beautiful rural scenery and a number of picturesque towns and villages along the way.

The Trailway provides a wide, level path for pedestrians and cyclists, with plenty of access points as you make your way through the splendid rural surroundings, making for an easy walk catered perfectly to dog-friendly holidays. Dorset and its scenery open up before you on this lengthy trail, and it’s easy to choose for yourself how far you’d like to go and which parts of the route you’d like to see.

These are just a few favourites from the wide range of walking routes that make this county the perfect destination for dog-friendly holidays. Dorset really is a fantastic place to go when you want to bring your pet along with you – and have them enjoy a well-deserved getaway just as much as you do!

 

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Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for family getaways, romantic escapes or dog friendly holidays, Dorset is often at the top of Michael’s recommendation list. He and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.

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