Walk

Ringstead Bay Coastal Walk

Dorset

Dog Friendly Rating:8/10A serious Jurassic Coast walk with significant elevation changes and big cliff views, quieter than the headline stretches.

Ringstead Bay sits on the Dorset coast between Weymouth and Lulworth, a quieter stretch of the Jurassic Coast where a broad shingle beach backs onto chalk downland and the South West Coast Path runs along dramatic cliff tops in both directions. This 9.7km circuit climbs from the bay onto the cliffs, heading east towards Burning Cliff and White Nothe with views across Weymouth Bay and Portland, before looping inland through chalk farmland. With 492 metres of ascent across the undulating coast path, this is a physically demanding walk that earns its views with genuine climbing. The chalk cliffs are white and sheer, and the turf is rich with downland wildflowers in summer.

Off-lead potential on this dog friendly walk is moderate on the cliff-top sections, but leads are essential through the farmland where livestock grazes the chalk downland year-round. The cliff edges are exposed and unfenced, so close control is needed near drops. The shingle beach at Ringstead provides sea access for dogs, and the coastal wind carries strong salt and seabird scent throughout the walk. Water sources are absent on the chalk, so carry plenty for the distance. The paths can be slippery on the chalk in wet conditions. Parking is available at Ringstead Bay car park, which fills quickly in summer. The village of Osmington nearby has the Smugglers Inn which welcomes dogs. A walk that delivers serious Jurassic Coast drama from a quieter starting point.

At a Glance

Distance: 9.7 km (6.0 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4 hr 30 min
Walk Type: Coastal
Route Type: Circular
Off Lead Potential: Moderate
Livestock Risk: High
Facilities: Limited at Ringstead
Parking: Free NT car park at clifftop; pay and display at beach level

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ringstead Bay Coastal Walk dog friendly?
Ringstead Bay Coastal Walk scores 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it a solid choice for dogs and their owners. The shingle beach at Ringstead offers sea access for dogs, and the South West Coast Path provides plenty of open coastal terrain to explore. If you're looking for somewhere to stop for a drink or a bite to eat afterwards, the Smugglers Inn in nearby Osmington welcomes dogs.
Can dogs be off lead at Ringstead Bay Coastal Walk?
Off-lead potential is moderate on the cliff-top sections, but leads are essential when passing through the farmland sections of the route, where livestock grazes the chalk downland year-round. The cliff edges are exposed and unfenced throughout the walk, so close control is needed near the drops regardless of how reliable your dog is. It's worth keeping that in mind on the stretches around Burning Cliff and White Nothe, where the chalk cliffs are sheer.
What should I know before visiting Ringstead Bay Coastal Walk with my dog?
This is a demanding 9.7km circuit with 492 metres of ascent, so it's worth making sure your dog is fit enough for a serious day out before you set off. There are no water sources on the chalk downland, so carry plenty of water for both of you , this is particularly important in warmer months. The chalk paths can also get slippery in wet conditions, and the car park at Ringstead Bay fills quickly in summer, so an early start is advisable.