SWCP Section 9, Lyme Regis to Poole

Totally unique section of path through a jungle like undercliff with its own ecosystem

Today's journey begins with a fascinating introduction to the dynamic coastline, passing through the remains of Europe's largest coastal mudslide before heading inland over Black Ven cliffs. After an early stop in Charmouth, famed for its fossil hunting, you ascend the challenging Golden Cap, the highest point on the South West Coast Path between Lands End and Poole. The ascent leads to breathtaking views from the summit, and after descending through woods and pastures, you'll arrive at Seatown, where you can celebrate your achievement at The Anchor Inn. The path continues with smaller climbs past Ridge Cliff, Thorncombe Beacon, and the intriguing World War II "Dragons Teeth" at Eypes Mouth. The day ends in West Bay, with its historic harbour and scenic views of Chesil Ridge, offering a perfect spot to rest before your next leg of the journey.

Today's walk offers a striking contrast of landscapes as you leave the rolling hills and cliffs of Lyme Regis behind, transitioning to the compact sandstone faces leading towards the famous Chesil Beach. After a final climb over East Cliff, you cross the River Bride and pass through the charming village of Burton Bradstock, before continuing along the Jurassic Coast Path. Chesil Bank, a unique 17-mile pebble ridge, becomes the focal point, with its ever-changing stones and scientific significance. As you traverse the beach, you’ll encounter wildlife, including dolphins and peregrine falcons, before reaching the serene lagoon at Burton Mere. After a few miles along the pebbles, you’ll reach West Bexington, where you can choose to head inland via the South Dorset Ridgeway or continue along the coast to the village of Abbotsbury. This idyllic stop offers stunning views over Chesil Bank and the Fleet, making for a memorable end to the day.

This section of the South West Coast Path features a peaceful walk along the Fleet Lagoon, the UK's largest inland saltwater lagoon, offering stunning views of Chesil Beach and Portland Island. The route follows the lagoon's edge, passing picturesque bays, tranquil villages, and abundant wildlife, including various wading birds. Highlights include the historic Moonfleet Bay, the legendary setting of J. Meade-Faulkner’s novel, and the fascinating "half-church" of East Fleet, destroyed by a storm in 1824. The journey ends at Ferry Bridge, where the Isle of Portland looms ahead for those continuing their walk. For those not taking on Portland, the route leads into Weymouth.

The Isle of Portland offers a unique and fascinating detour on the South West Coast Path, showcasing rugged landscapes and historical landmarks. Starting from the old railway causeway, you pass through abandoned quarries that supplied Portland Stone to iconic buildings worldwide. The path winds along dramatic cliffs with panoramic views of Chesil Beach and Lyme Regis Bay, leading you to Portland Bill, the most southerly point of the Dorset Coast, where three lighthouses guard the treacherous Portland Race. At Pulpit Rock, daring adventurers can climb to the rock platform for breathtaking vistas, while others can visit the Modern Lighthouse for a view that stretches back to Devon. The eastern coast of Portland offers a different perspective with views of rolling chalk cliffs, old fishermen’s shacks, and the ruins of St. Andrews Church with its pirate graveyard. The path continues past historical sites such as Rufus Castle, Portland Prison, and the Verne Citadel before reaching the expansive Portland Harbour. The day ends with a relaxing walk along the Rodwell Trail into Weymouth, passing Sandsfoot Castle and the charming Nothe Gardens before a ferry ride across Weymouth Harbour.

This section of the South West Coast Path offers a blend of nature, history, and geological wonders. Starting from the charming Weymouth, you pass the Lodmoor Country Park, a birdwatcher's haven, and the remains of a Roman temple before reaching the iconic Osmington Mills, with its 13th-century Smugglers Inn. As you continue, you encounter the eerie remains of an abandoned medieval village, the smouldering Burning Cliff, and the tiny St Catherine’s Church, associated with smuggling. The path then leads to dramatic cliff tops, with steep ascents and descents, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Durdle Door rock arch and the stunning Lulworth Cove. Along the way, you’ll witness rare wildlife, geological formations like the Lulworth Crumple, and the mesmerizing natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The day ends at the picturesque Lulworth Cove, where you can relax after a challenging but rewarding walk.

This section of the South West Coast Path takes you through some of the most remote and captivating landscapes of the Dorset coastline. You’ll walk through the Lulworth Army Firing Ranges, a unique area with rare wildlife and the ancient Fossil Forest, pass the ghost village of Tyneham, frozen in time since its evacuation in 1943, and explore Kimmeridge Bay, known for its marine wildlife reserve and snorkel trails. The path also takes you past stunning sites like the Clavell Tower, a 19th-century folly re-erected to protect it from cliff erosion, before descending to Chapman’s Pool and ending in Worth Matravers, where you can relax at the famous Square and Compass Pub. This challenging yet rewarding route combines nature, history, and breathtaking views.

This section of the South West Coast Path begins with a climb to St Aldhelm’s Head, offering stunning views back to Portland and as far as the Isle of Wight. The walk passes historical sites like the 12th-century St Aldhelm’s Chapel and remote quarries, such as Winspit, with poignant landmarks like a mass grave from the wreck of the Halsewell. The route then leads through Durlston Country Park, home to the Tilly Whim Caves and the impressive Victorian globe at Durlston Head, before descending into Swanage with its Victorian pier. After exploring Swanage, the path continues to Ballard Down, home to rare butterflies and flowers, and reaches the famous chalk stacks of Old Harry. The final stretch takes you through Studland and its Nature Reserve, ending with a serene walk on sandy beaches, finishing at South Haven Point and the ferry to Poole or Bournemouth, marking the end of your Dorset Coast adventure.