Dorset 4050 Walkers group logo

Dorset 4050 Walkers Group

We are the Dorset 4050 Ramblers. We are a friendly, mixed-age group of walkers.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking
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Overview

This circular walk starts with an ascent of Ballard Down with fantastic views over Swanage Bay and Poole Harbour. It then follows the South West Coast Part past the famous landmark of Old Harry Rocks, and the pretty village of Studland, before heading on towards the Coast Path end and Sandbanks ferry departure point at South Haven Point. We walk back along the Poole Harbour side of the Studland nature reserve (along the sea shore if the tide is out and it’s not too wet), then up across Godlingston Heath, down Deans Hill, and back to the start. If we are making good time and everyone in the group agrees, there is the option of a detour to the landmark of Agglestone rock which will add about a mile to the overall distance.

Tuesday, 26 December 2023
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
4:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
21.7km / 13.5mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
circular

Please book free tickets using the link above if you wish to join this walk. If you subsequently cannot make it, please cancel your ticket through the booking system.

Expect the usual 4050 brisk pace. Due to the distance and short daylight hours, we’ll need to crack on a bit, but we’ll still find time to enjoy the views along the way.

Bring drinks, snacks and a packed lunch to keep you going.

Fields may contain sheep. There is one stile.

Public toilets at Studland, Shell Beach and South Haven Point.

No dogs (except RAD, but please discuss with the walk leader in advance)

All walkers are responsible for their own health and fitness to undertake this walk

Check the weather forecast beforehand and dress appropriately; layers, waterproofs, and good waterproof walking boots are recommended.

Non-members welcome (Ramblers have a limit of three group walks as a non-member) 

Features

  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available

Starting point

Grid reference:
SZ 02181 80904
Nearest postcode:
BH19 3DG
what3words:
chicken.potential.sheds
Start time:
10:00 am

Meet by the large layby at Ulwell, on the road linking Studland to Swanage. Free parking in either of the two laybys. Additional road side parking just down the road towards Swanage.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking