Weymouth & Portland

'Weymouth and Portland has a wealth of walks, trails and local footpaths and bridleways to explore. You can travel through 20 million years of Jurassic time, explore flowery meadows and fossil-filled quarries and a wild coastline with an array of wildlife both on land and in the sea. One great way is walking the South West Coast Path which skirts around Weymouth and the Isle of Portland.'

'The Weymouth Wetlands are two fantastic nature reserves - Radipole Lake and Lodmoor - the Wild Weymouth Discovery Centre and the little tern project based on the spectacular Chesil Beach. Smack-bang in the heart of town there are breeding kingfishers, otters, marsh harriers and water voles and a whole host of other wildlife waiting to be discovered. Take a quiet walk round Lodmoor, nationally important for the European eel, to see common terns breeding in the spring, the massive green bush cricket in the summer and bitterns in the winter. Explore Radipole Lake for a chance to see otters, sticklebacks, bearded tits, orchids and marsh harriers.'

'Wide and sweeping coastal views are combined with quiet valleys on this splendid walk ... The walk is 10 miles long but can be shortened by finishing at Sutton Poyntz.'

Note: There is a Leaflet Dorchester to the Sea at Weymouth which was published by West Dorset District Council a few years ago. However, the Author (John Sissons) is planning to issue a revised 'improved' version in the near future. Dorchester Tourist Information Centre should have the latest information.

'Consists simply of the coastal path from Weymouth to Swanage, possibly with diversions where the path has fallen away or is dangerous. Anyone expecting a gentle stroll along the cliffs will be in for a shock, but the route has stunning views and is a true classic. The distance is about 32 miles, passing through the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site over some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in England, but including some tough climbs on the way.' Held Late August.

'The first stretch of the England Coast Path, from Rufus Castle on Portland to Lulworth Cove, is open to the public. Coastal access rights came into force along this stretch of coast on 29 June 2012.'

'Long distance path created to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Games. It starts in Weymouth and Portland at the National Sailing Academy and it finishes in London at the Olympic Stadium.'

'An excellent 7.5 mile walk which takes in Portland Bill, the quarries, Verne Prison and give a variety of great views, including views over Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and a fantastic view along the Jurassic Coast to St Alban's/St Aldhelm's head. No ascents or descents of any significance.'

'Provides a pleasant, traffic free 3.5km walk or bicycle ride from Westham Bridge in the heart of Weymouth's town centre to Ferry Bridge.  From there you can continue 0.8km along the traffic free Portland Beach Road route to the Chesil Beach Visitor Centre.  A further 2.3km will take you to Fortuneswell on Portland.' The Friends of the Rodwell Trail and Sandsfoot Castle work in partnership with Weymouth and Portland Council in the development and management of the Trail.