I thought I had found my favourite Jurassic Coast walk, but this route made for some pretty tough competition. If you’re wondering where to go hiking in the UK, look no further! There is not a part of this coastline that doesn’t offer amazing views, but this section of the coast felt a little more rugged, with jagged cliff edges and steep drops into the crashing waves below. The Jurassic Coast is a popular spot for coasteering and I can definitely see why.
Jurassic Coast circular walk: distance 8k, duration 2.5 hours.
STARTING POINT
The starting point for this Jurassic Coast circular walk is the village of Langton Matravers. Similarly to many of the rural villages in Dorset, the houses are built from local stone and retain plenty of character features, providing a beautiful start to this walk.
As you head out of the village you are met with rolling fields with the view of the sea in the distance. Heading down towards the sea, a steep winding stone pathway leads to The Dancing Ledge, a well know spot on the Jurassic Coast and one you may have heard of.
THE DANCING LEDGE
The Dancing Ledge is an area of rock at the base of a small cliff with serval caves in the cliff face, the shallow waters here look almost turquoise. It might have been the high temperatures and unbroken sunshine but standing up on the ledge overlooking the crashing waves felt almost like being in Greece! This is the perfect spot to stop for a picnic and admire the view.
Once you have explored this area, the next part of this Jurassic Coast walking route takes you through the fields along the coastline. The views are absolutely amazing, both looking along the cliff edge, and the glistening sea below. Head along the path which will lead you across the fields and to the next section of this Jurassic Coast walk.
MAP
Use the map to navigate your route, when you reach the pathway cutting back through the fields, take this to loop back to the village of Langton Matravers. This track will lead you uphill through the fields and back towards the village.
DIRECTIONS
- Park in the village of Langford Matravers.
- The walk starts from Durnford Drive, situated opposite St George’s Church. If you reach St Georges C Of E Primary School you have gone too far.
- Continue to follow this road, the path will narrow and you will pass Spyway Carpark.
- From this point you will be able to see the ocean in the distance. Walk towards the sea, you will follow a path which leads down the steep hill side and towards Dancing Ledge.
- Continue to follow the coast path alongside the coastline.
- When you reach Seacombe Cliff, you need to take the path heading back inland.
- Follow the path until you reach the road, when you reach the road turn right and start to walk back towards Langton Matravers.
- Follow the signs back down the road to Langton Matravers and return to the starting point.
MAKE IT A STAYCATION
If you are planning to stay in Dorset for a longer break, check out the following camping recommendations.
Share your thoughts on this Jurassic Coast circular walk in the comments below.
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