Best walks to Dorchester West

Weymouth Station to Dorchester West Station

the huge view of Weymouth Bay and over to Portland opens up suddenly and exhilaratingly from the top of the South Dorset Ridgeway; the views are spectacular. Undulating but easy walking, mostly on tracks across intensively farmed arable hills and with a roady margin leaving Dorchester. Climbs to the South Dorset Ridgeway before dropping through a holiday park to the coast and a long promenade walk. Follows the Hardy Way and the Jubilee Trail. Passes a reedy bird reserve behind the coast path. Trains roughly two-hourly. Worth a diversion to view the Osmington White Horse.

15km.

Lunch: A couple of pubs on the way, and plenty of chip shops on the Weymouth seafront.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Maiden Newton Station to Dorchester West Station

A solid, easy and direct walk following the Frome Valley cycle path, tarmac or gravel all the way and so good in winter with no mud. Almost flat from Maiden Newton with a few climbs and descents approaching Dorchester; mostly along quiet lanes and a bridleway. Mainly follows the Frome Valley Cycle Trail. A detour through access land near Dorchester takes in Poundbury Hill Fort.

13km. Moderate ascents.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route