The South Dorset Ridgeway
A moderate walk (countryside) starting and finishing in Dorset, England, about 19.40km (12.05 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 6:15h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
231m (757ft)
Descent
274m (898ft)
Max. Elevation
230m (754ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
505m (1655ft)
Start
Osmington
End
Abbotsbury, Weymouth, Dorset, England
Distance
19.40km
(12.05mi)
(12.05mi)
Duration
~6:15h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Map
Created by Anonymous Walker on 21 Feb 2012
The Dorset countryside is marvellous for walking. While many people are naturally attracted to the stunning Jurassic Coast, just inland is the South Dorset Ridgeway, from where you can still enjoy sea views and crisp breezes while also exploring the ancient burial sites along the chalk downlands. The coastal bus connects the start and finish, and also links both towns to Weymouth. It's a long day out but the going is easy, so manageable as a full day.
You can find out more information about the region here: www.dorsetaonb.org.uk/our-work/south-dorset-ridgeway.html
Walk Functions
Share
Nearby Walks
The Dorset Downs from Osmington
A moderate, circular walk (coast) starting in Dorset, England, about 12.80km (7.95 mi) long, duration: ~4:15h.The Portland Railway Walk
A moderate, linear walk (coast) starting in Dorset, England, about 10.50km (6.52 mi) long, duration: ~3:15h.Pottering around the Isle of Portland
A moderate, circular walk (coast) starting in Dorset, England, about 14.20km (8.82 mi) long, duration: ~4:15h.Walk Map
- $walk->POI array(0)
Waypoints
OS Grid SY723828
Take the Jurassic Coast bus to Osmington.
OS Grid SY722835
Head north along Church Lane towards the ridgeway.
About 0.65 km (~0.4 miles) from 
OS Grid SY719844
Join the South Dorset Ridgeway path at White Horse Hill. The man sat upon the chalk horse is King George III, who is related to our very own Queen Elizabeth. Probably.
About 1.00 km (~0.62 miles) from 
OS Grid SY695841
The path is well signposted, so navigation should be simple, leaving time to look out to sea.
About 2.39 km (~1.49 miles) from 
OS Grid SY686845
Pass Bincombe - pause to look at the village church - then take the track leading to Came Wood.
About 0.97 km (~0.6 miles) from 
OS Grid SY686856
At the road, take the path to the left.
About 1.11 km (~0.69 miles) from 
OS Grid SY671859
Cross the road at the bridge.
About 1.53 km (~0.95 miles) from 
OS Grid SY640867
The next section of the walk over Great Hill and Bronkham Hill passes several tumuli, ancient burial mounds on the hillside.
About 3.20 km (~1.99 miles) from 
OS Grid SY615876
At Black Down stands a monument to Sir Thomas Hardy, captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.
About 2.68 km (~1.67 miles) from 
OS Grid SY604868
Pass another burial mound at Hell Stone.
About 1.32 km (~0.82 miles) from 
OS Grid SY587864
The South Dorset Ridgeway crosses two minor roads as it heads towards Abbotsbury.
About 1.72 km (~1.07 miles) from 
OS Grid SY574860
At White Hill, leave the ridgeway and drop into the town.
About 1.42 km (~0.88 miles) from 
AbbotsburyOS Grid SY576852
Finish in Abbotsbury, where you can pick up the same Jurassic Coast bus service. The Ilchester Arms in town is a good place for a drink: www.ilchester-arms.co.uk/
About 0.77 km (~0.48 miles) from 
