Seven of the best river walks in Dorset

While Dorset is world famous for its stunning Jurassic coast and fabulous beaches, our county is also home to some of the most scenic river walks in the UK, with a variety of wonderful riverside routes and trails to explore. Whether you're looking for a lengthy hike or a casual stroll, these seven river walks are perfect for getting out and about in Dorset’s beautiful countryside.

The best Dorset river walks

1. Wareham Two Rivers Route

This circular walk features quiet roads and scenic paths that run alongside both the River Frome and the River Piddle. Along the way, you’ll take in Wareham Meadows, part of Dorset’s AONB, so it’s worth brining binoculars to try and spot the many wetland birds that visit the reserve and meadows, including black-tailed godwit, curlew and lapwing. Listen out for the pig-like ‘squeals’ of water rails and the ‘pinging’ call of the bearded tit from the reedbeds.

• Start/end: Connegar Lane Car Park, Wareham, BH20 4NQ
• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3.9 miles (circular)

2. Ratty’s Trail Circular Walk

Also known as the Dorchester river walk, this short but lovely circular route along the River Frome is named in honour of ‘Ratty’ the water vole, a frequent visitor to the river. From the historic town centre, follow the river as it meanders into the picturesque Frome Valley, taking in the famous Hangman’s Cottage en route before making your way back to the Top O’ Town Carpark.

• Start/end: Top O’ Town Carpark, DT1 1XT
• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 2.5 miles

3. White Mill and Shapwick Circular

Starting at the pretty White Mill which dates back to the 1800s, this circular walk takes you along water meadows, gravel tracks and tranquil paths that follow a scenic part of the River Stour. En route, keep an eye out for a vast array of birdlife, flora and fauna before making your way back to the mill. Please note: this route is not suitable for dogs due to grazing livestock.

• Start/end: Car park opposite White Mill, BH21 4BX
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 4 miles

4. Eye Bridge and Pamphill Circular

A tranquil 3.4-mile circular walk upstream along the Stour River, featuring ancient woodland and abundant birdlife through the unspoilt areas of Pamphill and Cowgrove. Starting at Eye Bridge car park, the route will take you along pastures and roads, passing the 17^th century Pamphill school and the site of a medieval Moot Court. The trail includes grass paths, gravel tracks and gentle ascents and descents. It is dog-friendly, but dogs should be kept on a lead near livestock and traffic.

• Start/end: Eye Bridge car park off the Wimborne/Cowgrove road, BH21 4EL
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 3.4 miles

5. Throop Mill to Stour Valley Nature Reserve loop

This walk follows a circular route around Throop Mill, known locally as the Throop Loop. Starting at the Throop car park by the river, explore the pretty weir and watermill before following the path through Stour Valley Nature Reserve, home to otters, kingfishers and a diverse range of flora. The route continues west through Muscliff and Ensbury, crosses the river and returns via Parley Green, where you’ll see a golf course and farmland. The final section passes through Merritown before circling back to Throop.

• Start/end: Throop Mill car park, BH8 0DN
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 6.7 miles

6. Lyme Regis to Uplyme

Starting from the West Bay Discovery Centre, the route takes you through a water meadow, rich in wildlife, before following the River Brit’s course. Keep an eye out for a variety of birds, including pied wagtails and starlings and - if you’re lucky –  otters (who are notoriously shy!). The return journey along the old railway line offers opportunities to spot local flora and fauna, with the chance to discover more about the area's history.

• Start: Lyme Regis Philpot museum, DT7 3QA
• End: Uplyme Village
• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 1.6 miles

7.. Stour Valley Way

The Stour Valley Way footpath follows the 64-mile route of the River Stour, starting at Stour Head in Wiltshire and ending near Christchurch. While walking the whole distance is a bit of a stretch for even the most seasoned of hikers, there are plenty of wonderful trails to explore along the way. Highlights include ancient mills from the 18th and 19th centuries, a diverse array of flora and fauna and famous Dorset landmarks such as Christchurch Harbour before ending at Hengistbury Head. The river transitions from tidal near Christchurch to tranquil, lily-adorned stretches further inland.

• Start Stour Head, Wiltshire
• End: Hengistbury Head
• Difficulty: Challenging (but easier trails en route)
• Length: 64 miles (shorter trails available!)

Tips for your Dorset river walk

• Check the weather forecast before setting off and dress appropriately.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear with good grip, especially if the path is muddy or uneven.
• Ensure you have a map and fully charged phone in case you get lost.
• Many of our river trails are prone to flooding. Be mindful of this, particularly after recent rainfall.
• Most routes are dog-friendly but there are some trails where dogs are not permitted due to livestock. Check local websites prior to setting off.
• Bring a water bottle and sun hat, particularly in summer.
• Respect private property and stick to designated paths.

Want to find more river walks in Dorset?

There are so many beautiful places to discover on foot in this amazing county we are lucky enough to call home. If you prefer walking or hiking as part of a group, use our activity finder tool to find clubs near you or if you’re looking to get more active in general, Register with LiveWell Dorset today and receive personalised advice from our team of LiveWell coaches. We’ve helped many people across Dorset live happier, healthier lives and we’d love to help you too!

Further reading

• Six outdoor activities for adults in Dorset
• Get into cycling
• Cycling for families