Walks
The Studland peninsula is woven with rural and coastal Dorset walks, through woodland and over rugged heath, sandy dunes and cliff tops.
The South West Coast begins its journey from the nearby Shell Bay, and you can pick it up from the beaches of Studland Bay on the hotel’s doorstep. The path runs for 630 miles all the way down to the Cornish coast and much of the peninsula is protected and managed by the National Trust, so there are also plenty of well-trodden tracks through the heathland, woodland and dunes of the nature reserves.
Studland to Swanage
If you’re setting out to explore Swanage, you can walk to the seaside town via the South West Coast Path in just over an hour. If you follow the path south it’ll take you up onto the chalky cliffs, with the views stretching out over Poole Bay to Bournemouth. During the spring and summer months, the cliff top is sprinkled with wildflowers.
Studland to Old Harry Rocks
After seeing Old Harry Rocks from Studland Bay, you may be inspired to get a closer look at the famous chalk formations. This four-mile round walk takes you up along the cliffs and south around the coast, with spectacular views over Studland and Poole Bays. Spring brings wildflowers, bees and butterflies; in the autumn, watch for migrant birds heading south for the coming winter.
Studland Beach sand dunes trail
If you’re looking for a gentle and peaceful walk, the 30-minute sand dunes trail begins close to the hotel, circling north through the dunes of Studland National Nature Reserve. A perfect morning or evening stroll, the path is clearly signposted and the terrain is fairly easy.
National Trust woodland walk
A little inland of the sand dunes is the woodland walk another short and leisurely trail. Keep your eyes open for bluebells, birds, deer and dragonflies – the woodland is alive with wildlife.
Second World War walk
During the Second World War, British troops used Studland Bay as a training ground for the D-Day landings. Walk the coast and discover the historical defences scattered about the landscape, such as the dragon’s teeth – designed to stop enemy tanks – and the many coastal pillboxes and forts.
Godlingston Heath walk
This track takes you out onto Godlingston Heath, through tangles of yellow-flowered gorse and uphill to the Agglestone. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot warblers and stonechats, and maybe even a sand lizard. Take in the views out over the heathland and coastline, before following the path down to the mire and into the woodland.
