This independent walking holiday follows a stunning section of the South West Coastal Trail between Lyme Regis and Swanage in Dorset , with a possible extension to Corfe Castle.
Accommodation & Meals
This independent walking holiday in Dorset has a range of good quality guest houses, bed and breakfasts and inns. In some locations the choice of accommodation is limited so please book early to ensure that we can secure our first choice accommodation. Where possible, we choose guest houses with a distinctive local character, where charming surroundings are married with a warm welcome. All accommodation is on a B&B basis. Evening meals are taken in local cafes, tea rooms, restaurants and pubs, whilst lunches can be bought at local shops or from your guest house.
When to Travel
Our self-guided walking holiday on the Dorset Coast is available from mid March to the end of October. Rainfall on the south coast is well below the UK average, with conditions becoming drier as you head further east. July has the lowest level of rainfall on average of any month, as well as the warmest temperatures. As the walk takes place along the coast, you’ll be exposed to windy conditions, which may help to keep it cool in warmer weather but may make it feel decidedly cool in poor weather. Here is more detail concerning the walking seasons.
Spring
The climate is generally mild in spring, especially from April onwards with a good number of sunny clear days, interspersed with cooler and wet weather. There are fewer tourists than in peak summer and so for those that don’t mind cool mornings then April and May are ideal months.. From mid March to May the average daytime temperatures are between 10°C and 17°C.
Summer
Most days in summer range from mild to warm with the possibility of some rare hotter days. There may be overcast and humid conditions in the summer and the risk of storms is highest in the summer. From June to August the average daytime temperatures are between 19°C and 21°C.
Autumn
The climate can vary from some pleasantly mild days particularly at the start of September to cooler days in October. Visitors can see some wonderful autumn colours. From September to end of October the average daytime temperatures drop from 18°C to 14°C.
Navigation, Walking Notes & Maps
Most of this walking holiday follows the long distance South West Coast path which is signposted along its entire length. The symbol for the trail is an acorn and these are often shown on signposts accompanied by the words coastal path or a particular direction and the distance. The walking follows clear paths, tracks and minor roads for its entire duration. The walk will use other footpaths to access accommodation, villages or local sites. Our walking notes are very detailed (more information here) and include intermediate distances for sections of the trail. They also include information about the sites which can be explored along the route. We supply one walking guide per person on this holiday.
Extra Nights
Extra nights are possible at any of the stopovers during the holiday, for example you could stay an extra night in Abbotsbury if you wanted more time to explore the area including the amazing Chesil beach, as well as Abbotsbury’s tropical gardens and swannery. You may also wish to opt for an extra night at the start or end of your self-guided walking holiday. An extra night in Lyme Regis would give you the option of undertaking the walking stage of the South West coastal trail from Seaton to Lyme Regis which traverses Undercliff National Nature Reserve, a woodland with plenty of wildlife interest created from natural coastal landslides. If you are finishing in Lulworth you can stay an extra night to explore the beautiful Lulworth Cove.
Combining walking holidays
This coastal trail walking holiday can be combined with any of our walking holidays elsewhere on the southwest coastal path.
Tailor-Made Trips
Here is a selection of tailor-made trips to inspire you when considering your holiday in southern Britain.
A Quintessential English Coastal Getaway
Embark on an extraordinary journey, weaving through the captivating tapestry of England’s coastal wonders and historical treasures. From the treasures of the UNESCO listed Dorset coast to the beautiful remote Scilly Isles located beyond the tip of Cornwall your coastal adventure will be a rural escape sandwiched between the cultural delights of London and the Cotswolds. During you trip you’ll delve deep into the traditions and riches of the English coast. From the bustle of the capital to the invigorating sea air, this getaway is designed to be a rewarding experience for both adults and the little ones.
An Unforgettable Adventure Through the English Countryside
Imagine a 10-day English adventure packed with historic castles, charming villages, and a dose of that classic British charm. This trip has a bit of everything for everyone. As we kick off this journey, our suitcases are loaded with excitement, curiosity, and, of course, a solid dose of family spirit. We’re talking iconic landmarks, chill sessions in cozy pubs, and each day brings a fresh discovery and some quality family time. Whether we’re navigating cityscapes, chilling by the coast, or soaking in the countryside vibes, this trip covers all the bases. Get ready for a down-to-earth exploration that’s all about enjoying England’s diverse landscapes and soaking in its unique culture. It’s going to be 10 days of awesome discoveries and shared experiences – the kind of trip that sticks with you long after you’ve unpacked your bags.
Belgium
