…perhaps even Christmas Day!
Some shy away from spending time outdoors during Winter. It’s no wonder why of course, the cold winds brushing against your face, trying to find the right balance between too cold and sweating profusely as you’re sandwiched between a million and one layers. With that being said, there’s so much beauty to winter too. It’s peace and quiet, it’s the crunching of leaves (or frost) beneath your boots, it’s breathing in the cool, fresh air that wakes you up and replenishes.
You can either see it as an icey punishment, or a refreshing renewal. The choice is yours, but if you’re the latter, follow our lead today by reading our top 10 winter walks in Dorset, near Wareham. We will discuss our top picks, with reasons why, along with activities in Wareham along the way and stop off’s where you can grab a coffee or a nice bite. Milage and difficulty level will be included too, of course. From Purbeck Hills to the crashing waves of the Jurassic Coast – let’s take a look at everything Dorset’s scenery has to offer.
All of our suggested walks are placed around The Priory Wareham Hotel: so if you fancy a bit to eat, a hot chocolate and warm fireplace or even a place to take a night’s rest – you know who to call.
The best walks in Wareham
1. Wareham Town Walls Walk
Distance: 1.6 miles (Circular) | Difficulty: Easy
For those who want to stay local, this historic circular walk takes you around the Saxon walls of the town. It is a gentle 40-minute stroll that offers elevated views without the need for hiking boots. The Perfect Stop-off: As this route loops around the town, it is the perfect “pre-dinner” stroll. Finish your walk at The Priory Hotel restaurant and bar (Church Green, Wareham, Dorset BH20 4ND). Nestled just off the route near the river, it is the ideal spot to warm up with a drink in our garden or a meal in our restaurant.
Wareham Town Walls Walk OS Maps Route
2. The Two River Walk
Distance: 3.1 miles (Circular) | Difficulty: Easy
This walk showcases why Wareham is famous for its waters, situated between the River Piddle and the River Frome. The route takes you along the banks and wetlands, where you might spot winter wildlife like otters if you are lucky. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The Perfect Stop-off: The walk starts and ends near the Quay. After navigating the wetlands, head to The Priory Hotel on Church Green to relax in a warm, historic setting.
3. Wareham Forest: The Woodlark Trail
Distance: 2 miles (Circular) | Difficulty: Easy
Wareham Forest is a winter wonderland of heathland and pine. The Woodlark Trail is a way-marked loop starting from the Sika Trail car park. The paths are generally wide and robust, making them good for winter walking, though there may be puddles during wet periods. It is a peaceful spot where you can enjoy the silence of the forest away from the summer crowds. The Perfect Stop-off: There is a picnic area at the car park, but for a hot meal, drive the short distance back into Wareham town centre for a visit to The Priory Hotel.
No OSMap needed for this one! It’s all signposted! Take a look at the trail on Forestry England.
4. RSPB Arne Winter Birdwatching
Distance: 2.6 miles (Red Trail) | Difficulty: Easy
Winter is arguably the best time to visit the RSPB nature reserve at Arne. The Red Trail is a circular route that takes about an hour. You can also try the Coombe Heath Walk (1.9 miles) for views over the harbour. The Perfect Stop-off: Arne has its own café for a quick coffee, but for a more substantial post-walk treat, the drive back to Wareham takes just over 10 minutes, bringing you right back to the comfort of The Priory Hotel.
RSPB Arne birdwatching – OS Maps Route
5. Wareham to Corfe Castle (The Purbeck Way)
Distance: 6.3 miles (One-way) | Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
If you are feeling adventurous, take the linear walk from Wareham Quay to the iconic ruins of Corfe Castle. Seeing the castle ruins emerge from the winter mist is a spectacular sight. The route crosses the Creech Heath and offers views of the Purbeck Ridge. The Perfect Stop-off: Once in Corfe, you can explore the village pubs. To return, hop on the bus or the heritage train back to Wareham, where you can celebrate your journey with a drink at The Priory Hotel bar.
6. Tyneham and Worbarrow Bay
Distance: 4 miles (Circular) | Difficulty: Moderate
Visit the “lost village” of Tyneham, evacuated during WWII and frozen in time. Wandering the deserted cottages and the restored church is particularly atmospheric in the quiet of winter. The walk leads down to Worbarrow Bay, a secluded beach perfect for a brisk coastal walk. Note: This area is within the Lulworth Ranges, so you must check firing times before travelling, as it is only open on specific weekends and holidays. The Perfect Stop-off: There are no cafes in Tyneham itself, so bring a flask!
Tyneham & Worbarrow Bay OS Maps
7. Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
Distance: 2 – 4 miles (Circular options) | Difficulty: Moderate
No winter visit to Dorset is complete without seeing the limestone arch of Durdle Door. While the path involves some steep sections that will definitely warm you up, the views of the Jurassic Coast are breathtaking,. The crisp winter air makes the sea look incredibly blue. The Perfect Stop-off: There are refreshments available near the Lulworth Cove trailhead.
Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door OS Maps
8. The Rodwell Trail
Distance: 4 miles | Difficulty: Easy
If the winter weather has been very wet and you want to avoid mud, the Rodwell Trail near Weymouth is an excellent choice. It follows a disused railway line, offering a fully surfaced path suitable for all abilities. It passes Sandsfoot Castle, a ruin built by Henry VIII, which overlooks Portland Harbour. The Perfect Stop-off: There is a café at Sandsfoot Castle, or you can find plenty of options in Weymouth.
The below OSMAPs trail shows The Rodwell Trail added to another trail. Instead of following the map as is, follow from the destination (Weymouth).
9. Upton Country Park
Distance: Various | Difficulty: Easy
Located near Poole, this Georgian country house is surrounded by parkland and shoreline trails. It is a fantastic option for a winter walk because of its network of hard paths, meaning you don’t have to worry too much about mud. The Perfect Stop-off: The park has tea rooms, and it is only a short drive back to Wareham.
10. Tout Quarry Sculpture Park
Distance: 1 mile | Difficulty: Easy
For something unique, explore the abandoned stone quarry at Portland, which has been turned into a nature reserve and sculpture trail. Discovering the hidden sculptures among the rocks is a great activity for a dry winter afternoon. The Perfect Stop-off: The Heights Hotel on Portland offers stunning views, or head back to the mainland for a cozy evening at The Priory Hotel in Wareham.
See more about the Sculpture Park
Hiking in Wareham is great, but the rest is always 10x better…
After a day of exploring Dorset and hiking in English weather, why not retreat to the luxury and comfort of Priory Wareham. Just a 10 minute walk from Wareham town centre, our Grade II-listed hotel sits beautifully beside the River Frome, offering individually designed rooms filled with antique furnishings and elegant 20th-century pieces. The hotel’s Garden Room restaurant showcases the finest local Dorset ingredients, while Cloisters Bar provides the perfect setting for unwinding with a hot drink by the fireplace (or something a little stronger!).
