Bournemouth offers a range of coastal and seaside walks, combining long sandy beaches, promenade paths and views across Poole Bay. The area is well suited to linear walks, with good transport links allowing routes to be completed in one direction and easily returned by bus, train or ferry.
Walks from Bournemouth connect to nearby coastal areas including Sandbanks, Studland and Swanage, following sections of the South West Coast Path and quieter shoreline routes. Terrain is generally straightforward, with a mix of paved promenades, sandy sections and occasional cliff-top paths.
These walks provide a combination of accessible shorter routes and longer coastal stretches, with consistent sea views and well-defined paths throughout.
1. Bournemouth to Swanage Walk
Distance: 12.2 miles one-way
Difficulty: Medium
Estimated time: 5 hours 35 minutes
Total ascent 984ft, Highest point 364ft
Starting point: Bournemouth Pier (Google map)
OS Map: Explorer OL15 Purbeck & South Dorset
*** Route description and photos ***
Link to GPS route map
https://www.outdooractive.com/
https://www.alltrails.com/
https://explore.osmaps.com/
2. Mudeford Sandbanks to Bournemouth Pier Walk
Distance: 7.0 miles one-way
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 3 hours
Total ascent 167ft, Highest point 131ft
Starting point: Mudeford Sandbank Jetty (Google map)
OS Map: Explorer OL15 Purbeck & South Dorset
*** Route description and photos ***
Link to GPS Route Map
https://www.outdooractive.com/
https://www.alltrails.com/
https://explore.osmaps.com/
