In our never-ending battle against the expanding waistline (and in the name of sanity), Jackie and I have taken up deliberate walking. Not just the casual "wander to the fridge and back" type, but proper, purposeful striding. Sure, walking keeps us fit, but as many wise folk have pointed out, it’s also a tonic for the soul. There's just something about fresh air, movement, and the sheer joy of being out in the world that turns down the volume on life’s everyday nonsense. That endless to-do list? It fades. The siren call of the phone? Silenced. In its place? Something rather wonderful, let’s call it "contentment."
And so, because we love a good stroll (and an even better excuse to talk about it), we’re sharing our three favourite walks from both Belvedere Lodge in Swanage and Porth Sands. Don’t worry, we’ve catered to all levels of enthusiasm: a short 5K stroll, a medium 10K ramble, and a ridiculously long trek for those who really like to test their boots (and their patience). If walking isn’t your thing, you can cycle most of these routes, or simply read along and take pleasure in the knowledge that you’re warm, dry, and not about to get blisters.
PORTH WALKS
Short Walk – Porth Island Perfection
Hills. Everywhere. That’s Porth for you. But this walk keeps things manageable. Head to Porth Island, cross the footbridge (pausing to watch the mesmerizing sea swell below), and soak in the panoramic views stretching from Pentire to Watergate Bay. If the tide’s just right, you might catch the blowhole in action, shooting seawater high into the air like nature’s own fountain. Just over 2 miles in total, but absolutely packed with scenic punch.
This is the kind of walk that proves short but doesn’t have to mean boring. Whether it’s wave-watching, bird-spotting, plenty of Choughs here, or simply standing in awe at the crashing ocean below, there’s always something to catch your attention. And if you time it right, you might even have the whole place to yourself.
Medium Walk – Everyone’s Favourite Beach
Watergate Bay is a breathtaking stretch of golden sand, framed by dramatic dark cliffs that add to its wild beauty. With consistently great waves, it’s a magnet for surfers, and no matter the time of year, you’ll almost always spot someone riding the swell.
Start your walk on Porth Beach, strolling along the sand until you reach the road by the Mermaid pub (better known as The Pub on the Beach). From here, head uphill and pick up the cliff-top path, which will take you all the way to Watergate Bay. Just follow the South West Coast Path, and you can’t go wrong!
Watergate Bay is packed with fantastic places to eat, drink, and soak up the views. Whether you’re after a casual coffee, an indulgent ice cream, or a full-blown meal, you’re spoilt for choice. If you fancy a little luxury with a spectacular terrace view, we highly recommend the Watergate Bay Hotel, it’s a real treat.
It’s about two miles to Watergate Bay, making for a solid four-mile round trip. But if you’re in the mood for an even longer adventure, why not continue another two miles along the coast path to Mawgan Porth? This stunning bay boasts great restaurants, rugged sea cliffs, and excellent surf.
In recent years, Mawgan Porth has gained a bit of a reputation as “Hollywood-on-Sea,” with rumours that A-listers like Cate Blanchett, Jason Momoa, and Jason Statham own holiday homes there. Oh, and let’s not forget Chris Martin of Coldplay fame, just to add a touch of rock ‘n’ roll to the mix! If you’re keen on a bit of celebrity spotting, this is the place. That said, we Brits are far too polite to stare, and the idea of invading their personal space? Absolutely unthinkable!
Whatever route you take, this walk offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Cornwall. Enjoy!
Long Walk – The Quest for the Flattest Route
Newquay is cruelly hilly, so for a change of pace, we head to Padstow and walk the Camel Trail. Starting at the old railway station, this former rail line-turned-trail is blissfully level and follows the scenic Camel River. You can walk as far as you like, but we usually turn around at Wadebridge (5.5 miles in), making for a satisfying 11-mile round trip. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—last time, we spotted three Curlews overhead, a first for us! The best part? Returning to Padstow, where foodie delights await. After all, what’s a long walk without a well-earned reward?
SWANAGE WALKS
Short Walk – A Gentle Wake-Up Call
Swanage Bay in the early morning is a slice of pure magic. Picture this: the Victorian pier silhouetted against the sunrise, the sea glistening, and the beach blissfully empty (except for the odd ambitious jogger or a dog who’s just spotted a particularly exciting seagull).
From Belvedere Lodge, it’s a mere 100m downhill to the sea. Turn left, try not to fall in, and follow the promenade past the beach huts toward Ballard Down. When the walkway ends, stand there, breathe it all in, and soak up the views, chalk cliffs, golden sand, endless sea. Then, simply turn back or take advantage of one of the two beach cafes, it would be rude not to. Total distance: 2.25 miles. Feeling sprightly? Continue to Peveril Point for even more spectacular vistas. This walk will wake you up faster than a double espresso.
We love this walk for its simplicity. No maps required, no chance of getting lost, and every step is a delight. There’s something about being out before most of the world has woken up that makes this stroll extra special. Plus, the added bonus of seeing Swanage in its early morning glow makes it even more worthwhile. You’ll be back in time for breakfast, feeling like you’ve accomplished something before the day has even properly started.
Medium Walks – The Best Views in Town
Why settle for one great walk when you can have two? Whether you fancy heading up or down the hill from Belvedere, both routes along the South West Coast Path offer breathtaking views. This Jurassic Coastline didn’t earn its World Heritage status for nothing!
Walk One: Old Harry’s Rocks
For this one, head downhill towards the shoreline and follow the path to the end of the bay. Then, make your way up onto Ballard Down. You can either walk along the beach and take the stairs up or weave your way through the houses—we prefer the beach route, as the views are spectacular, and hopping over the odd groyne keeps things interesting!
Feel free to take the OS Map from the flat with you, but as long as you follow the little acorn signs marking the South West Coast Path, you’re golden. Keep walking along the cliffs, and soon you’ll reach Old Harry’s Rocks, a stunning set of chalk stacks and arches.
It’s a picture-perfect spot, and no doubt the backdrop of countless happy selfies. Just remember, these cliffs are high, so no dramatic backwards shots that could turn into an impromptu cliff dive, oh and keep your dogs on a lead!
If you fancy making a longer outing of it, the Bankes Arms Inn in Studland is not too far away. They serve great food, and their beer garden boasts some of the best sea views around, ideal for a well-earned pint.
Walk Two: Anvil Point Lighthouse & Durlston Castle
For this equally-loved walk, head uphill from Belvedere Lodge. You can also take the gate opposite and walk along the Downs right by the cliff edge. Either way, your goal is Anvil Point Lighthouse, passing through the lovely Durlston Castle on the way.
As you wind through the houses at the top of the hill, you’ll reach the entrance to Durlston Country Park. Follow the beautiful tree-lined path, where regular viewing points offer stunning panoramas of the two bays, perfect for a photo stop (or just a moment to take it all in). If you’ve got kids in tow, there’s a fun adventure trail with a rope bridge, a swing, and a giant hammock scramble net, because who doesn’t love a bit of climbing?
The castle itself is a great place to pause for a coffee, cake, or (highly recommended) a scoop of Purbeck Ice Cream, arguably the best ice cream in the world. Built in 1887 to lure wealthy Victorians to Swanage, the castle also boasts a huge stone globe—well worth a look.
From the castle, head downhill towards the lighthouse. The steep-sided valleys aren’t for the faint-hearted, so tread carefully. On the way, you’ll pass the fascinating Tilly Whim Caves. Watching the waves crash against the cliffs, it’s hard to imagine how miners once lowered massive slabs of stone onto waiting boats below—using only wooden and rope cranes. Would love to see the health and safety report on that one... oh wait, they didn’t have one!
At the end of the trail, the lighthouse stands boldly in its bright white glory, striking against the green hills and deep blue sea. To get back, take the steep road up to Durlston Castle. This is the perfect excuse to stop, pretend you’re admiring the view, and catch your breath! And if you need an extra energy boost, why not pop back into the castle for another round of refreshments before heading home to Belvedere Lodge?
Whichever route you choose, you’re in for a treat. Happy walking!
Long Walk – For the Truly Determined or a walk of two halves
This one’s a beast—15 miles of pure walking joy (or torture, depending on your outlook). The route takes you up and over the Purbeck hills, past Corfe Castle, and back via the Jurassic Coast along the Priest’s Way. Expect rolling hills, breathtaking sea views across Poole Harbour, and possibly a minor existential crisis halfway through. Bring snacks, good shoes, and a strong sense of adventure. Bonus trivia: did you know Poole Harbour is the second-largest natural harbour in the world? Now you do. Enjoy that little nugget while you trudge along.
As an alternative the half way point is the magnificent Corfe Castle. Which nestles like a ruin out of a fairy tale on a manmade hill in the valley between two ridges of rolling down land. If you fancy shortening your walk hop on the steam train (cue childhood dreams of being a train driver), or if you're feeling particularly nosy, take the double-decker bus back for a sneak peek into some very enviable gardens. Either way this will shorten your time on legs to around 6 miles.
One of our favourite things about this walk is the sheer variety of scenery you’ll encounter. One moment you’re gazing over the sweeping countryside, the next you’re clambering down to the rugged Jurassic coastline. The changing landscapes keep things interesting—and keep you motivated when your legs start complaining.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, our favourite walks in all their muddy, wind-blown, breathtaking glory. Whether you walk, run, or simply enjoy reading about other people’s adventures from the comfort of your sofa, we hope this little guide inspires you to get outside… or at least to appreciate the beauty of it all from afar. Because, let’s be honest, sometimes the best part of a long walk is knowing you don’t actually have to do it.
Looks like an amazing place and can’t wait to visit! Thanks for all the advice on walks.