The Dorset Ridgeway Path

Enquire Now

The Dorset Ridgeway Path

Enquire Now

The Dorset Ridgeway Path

Enquire Now

2 Nights

Average

17 miles / 27km

total

17 miles / 27km

Average

549m / 1801ft

elevation

Hostels, B&Bs

accomodation

549m / 1801ft

elevation

Hostels, B&Bs

accomodation

The Dorset Ridgeway Path

difficulty Grade

Accomodation Type

Hostels, B&Bs

Activity

Walking Holiday

Start/Finish

Cornwall/Devon

Average Daily cost

COST

Best Months

April-Oct

costs based on two people sharing

Overview

The Dorset Ridgeway Path is a scenic trail that runs from West Bexington to Osmington Mills, offering superb views and a variety of landscapes including coastal paths and archaeological sites.

Itinerary

The South Dorset Ridgeway is a scenic inland walking alternative to the coastal route of the South West Coast Path between West Bexington or Abbotsbury and Osmington Mills. Covering 14 to 17 miles, the route can be completed in one or two days, with an optional overnight stop in Upwey. This moderate-grade path follows a high ridge above the coast, offering varied terrain and exceptional views of Chesil Beach, Portland, and the Dorset Downs. Once part of the "Inland Coast Path," this route now provides walkers a chance to explore a less-travelled, archaeologically rich landscape. Key highlights include Hardy’s Monument, Abbotsbury Castle Hill Fort, and numerous prehistoric barrows, including the Hell Stone Dolmen and over 150 Bronze Age barrows at Bronkham Hill, a site featured on Time Team. Walkers also pass Evershot Farm’s ritual stone circle and views of Maiden Castle, Europe’s largest hill fort. The route begins with a gentle inland climb from West Bexington or Abbotsbury, traversing historic and natural landmarks before descending toward Osmington Mills. Notable waypoints include Limekiln Hill, strip farming patterns near Bincombe, Chalbury’s hill fort, and the unique George III chalk figure at Whitehorse Hill. The walk ends in Osmington village, once visited by artist John Constable, and rejoins the coast at Osmington Mills, often concluding with a stay at the Smugglers Inn. Ideal for those short on time or seeking inland variety, this route combines history, nature, and panoramic vistas for a memorable walking experience.×

Estimated Cost Calculator

Itinerary:

68 days – 69 nights / 9 miles daily

Number in group:

Preferred units:

Accommodation Quality

What's Included

Luggage Transfer

ℹ️ Click for details

Accommodation

ℹ️ Click for details

App

ℹ️ Click for details

Support

ℹ️ Click for details

Travel Design

ℹ️ Click for details

Itinerary

68 Days / 69 Nights9 miles daily avgStandard

Cost £ per person

£10,643Auto-calculated

Based on two people sharing a Double or Twin Room

Total Cost

£21,286

Request a Bespoke Quote

Gallery

TRIP TESTIMONIAL

Felt like a true pilgrimage.

Kitchen

2 - 3 months

Wells was the highlight and Shepton the lowlight but all in all very good experience - Keith, St Albans

Rachel D.

TRIP TESTIMONIAL

Felt like a true pilgrimage.

Kitchen

2 - 3 months

Wells was the highlight and Shepton the lowlight but all in all very good experience - Keith, St Albans

Rachel D.

TRIP TESTIMONIAL

Felt like a true pilgrimage.

Kitchen

2 - 3 months

Wells was the highlight and Shepton the lowlight but all in all very good experience - Keith, St Albans

Rachel D.

Everything You Need to Know

More FAQs

What is a self guided walking holiday?

How do I choose a route

How hard are the walks?

Can I walk slower or faster than your suggested itineraries

Can I add in rest days and activity days?

Start planning your perfect trip — your trail begins here.

Plan My Trip

Inspiration

Why Slower Adventures Create Deeper Memories

Click Here

Why Slower Adventures Create Deeper Memories

Click Here

Why Slower Adventures Create Deeper Memories

Click Here

5 Dog-Friendly UK Adventures You’ll Both Love

Click Here

5 Dog-Friendly UK Adventures You’ll Both Love

Click Here

5 Dog-Friendly UK Adventures You’ll Both Love

Click Here

The Real Impact of Walking in Wild Places

Click Here

The Real Impact of Walking in Wild Places

Click Here

The Real Impact of Walking in Wild Places

Click Here

Check Other Posts