Walk Away: Purbeck Paths & Dorset Coastal Trails

After breakfast, we take a local bus to Poole, where we meet our Blue Badge Guide for a morning walking tour of Old Poole, whose rich history dates back to Roman times. In the afternoon, we take the ferry from Poole Harbour and enjoy a walk around Brownsea Island, with outstanding views back towards the mainland. One of the island's best-known attractions is its colony of red squirrels, among the few still seen in southern England. Alternatively, you may wish to return to Bournemouth (1.5 hours/3.5 miles total walking, 50 metres total ascent/descent).

We begin the day with a scenic journey to Corfe, home to one of the country's most picturesque castles, standing dramatically above the village. Travelling by hired transport gives us plenty of time to explore this charming setting at an easy pace. With time to visit the castle if you wish (entrance not included, free to National Trust members), you also walk above the village for superb views across the Isle of Purbeck. This afternoon, we continue with a walk up West Hill to enjoy fine views over Corfe and the surrounding Dorset hills. On our return to Bournemouth, those who wish can join the tour leader for an additional gentle walk exploring the town's chines - steep-sided dry river valleys leading down to the sea. The route is gentle underfoot and follows good paths (1 hour/2.5 miles total walking, 100 metres total ascent/descent).

We make a slightly earlier start today to catch a local bus to Christchurch. Here, your tour leader introduces this intriguing town with an orientation walk. Later, we take a ferry across the River Stour to begin our walk across salt marshes and along the beach paths towards Hengistbury Head. A hill in the middle of the route offers, for those who choose to climb it, sweeping views along the coast from Swanage to the Isle of Wight. At the end of the walk, we take the ferry across the mouth of the Stour before returning to our hotel (2.5 hours/3.5 miles total walking, 35 metres total ascent/descent).

Enjoy another day out today, this time to Swanage, a delightful slice of seaside Victoriana. One highlight is the seafront, with our Blue Badge Guide bringing Swanage's history and character to life. This afternoon, we take a gentle stroll onto the cliffs above the town for fine sea views, before returning to the hotel by public transport (2 hours/2.9 miles total walking, 110 metres total ascent/descent).<br />

After breakfast, we begin our journey home by coach, taking with us lasting memories of Dorset's coast, countryside and historic towns.