Explore Dorset's ancient walking trails, from prehistoric ridgeways and Iron Age hillforts to peaceful river paths and coastal routes, discovering thousands of years of history alongside spectacular countryside.
29th June 2026
Dorset is famous for its stunning coastline, but some of its most fascinating landscapes lie inland, where ancient walking trails weave through rolling hills, prehistoric monuments and picturesque countryside. These routes have been travelled for thousands of years, connecting Iron Age hillforts, Roman roads, medieval villages and some of the county's most breathtaking viewpoints.
Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply looking for a scenic day out, Dorset's ancient trails offer a unique opportunity to explore the county's rich history while enjoying spectacular countryside and wildlife.
Here are four of the best historic walking routes in Dorset.
The Wessex Ridgeway is one of the oldest walking routes in southern England, following a prehistoric trading route that dates back to the Neolithic period over 6,000 years ago.
Stretching approximately 136 miles, with around 62 miles crossing Dorset, the trail passes through the beautiful Dorset Downs and links many of the county's most important archaeological sites.
One of the highlights is Maiden Castle, Britain's largest Iron Age hillfort, where visitors can explore impressive earthworks while enjoying panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. The route also passes Hambledon Hill, another remarkable prehistoric hillfort, as well as the famous Cerne Giant, the mysterious chalk figure carved into the hillside.
Walking the entire Dorset section takes several days, but shorter circular walks around Cerne Abbas and Dorchester offer an excellent introduction to this ancient landscape.
Highlights
Following the tranquil River Stour, the Stour Valley Way combines peaceful riverside scenery with thousands of years of history.
The 64-mile route follows landscapes once used by prehistoric communities before later becoming important trading and travel routes during the Roman and Saxon periods.
One of the trail's historic highlights is Hod Hill, an impressive Iron Age hillfort that was later occupied by the Romans following their invasion of Britain in AD 43. Today, visitors can walk among the ancient earthworks while overlooking the surrounding Blackmore Vale.
Compared to the Wessex Ridgeway, the Stour Valley Way is gentler underfoot, making it a fantastic choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone seeking a relaxing countryside walk.
Highlights
Inspired by the landscapes that shaped the novels of Thomas Hardy, the Hardy Way links many of the locations that became the fictional county of Wessex.
Although established more recently, much of the route follows ancient drove roads and footpaths that have been used for centuries by shepherds, traders and local communities.
The trail passes through the rolling Dorset Downs, the Blackmore Vale and picturesque villages before connecting with historic landmarks including Maiden Castle, Higher Bockhampton and Shaftesbury's famous Gold Hill.
The walk between Dorchester and Puddletown is particularly rewarding, combining peaceful woodland, open heathland and beautiful rural scenery that inspired Hardy's writing.
Highlights
For walkers wanting to combine history with dramatic coastal scenery, the Purbeck Way is one of Dorset's finest routes.
Running for approximately 27 miles between Wareham and Swanage, the trail follows ancient tracks once used by Iron Age communities before later serving generations of quarry workers travelling across the Purbeck Hills.
Along the way you'll discover Corfe Castle, one of Dorset's most iconic landmarks, together with the prehistoric burial mounds of Nine Barrow Down and sweeping views across the Isle of Purbeck.
The section between Corfe Castle and Swanage is especially popular, offering a memorable combination of historic landmarks, open heathland and spectacular views towards the Jurassic Coast.
Highlights
Before setting off, it's worth planning your route and checking the weather forecast, as conditions can change quickly, particularly on exposed hilltops.
To make the most of your walk:
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful times to explore these trails, with colourful wildflowers, autumn foliage and quieter footpaths creating an unforgettable walking experience.
From prehistoric hillforts and ancient burial mounds to medieval villages and sweeping chalk ridges, Dorset's historic walking trails offer far more than beautiful scenery.
Every path tells a story, allowing visitors to follow in the footsteps of ancient traders, Roman soldiers and generations of local communities who helped shape the county we know today.
Whether you're exploring the Wessex Ridgeway, wandering through the Blackmore Vale or walking the Purbeck Hills, these ancient trails reveal a fascinating side of Dorset that many visitors never discover.
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