Route details
- Trail: Walking
- Grade: Easy
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km)
- Time: 1 hour to 2 hours
1. From the car park walk down the road past the Bankes Arms pub and turn left by the public toilets on to the path signed for Old Harry. Look out for rectangular earthworks in the wood near Old Harry - the remains of fields used by Celtic farmers.
2. From Old Harry follow the coast path up a gentle rise, keeping well back from the sheer cliff edge.
Old Harry Fact!
Old Harry, and the remains of Old Harry's wife, have been carved by the action of the waves. Together they form one of Dorset's most famous landmarks. Savour the fine views across Poole Bay to Bournemouth, Hengistbury Head and the Isle of Wight.
3. At the first gate, keep to the cliff top path. There's a good variety of chalk grassland flowers in the short turf, but you'll need to go down on hands and knees to best enjoy them. Look back to enjoy a fine view of the Pinnacle stack.
Look out for...
Peregrine falcons circling high above. This stocky falcon can fold back its wings and stoop on its prey with incredible speed. Listen out for its wild, piercing cry.
4. Go through a farm gate and head straight on past earthworks and along Ballard Down.
Look out for gulls...
With its bulky body and massive bill, the greater black-backed gull is our largest gull species. Look for them roosting on the stacks or flying on up-draughts of wind along the cliff tops.
5. Just before the stone bench marked 'Rest and be thankful', where the main paths cross, turn right down the hill towards Studland.
6. Follow the road down through the Glebeland estate.
7. Go straight on at the crossroads, following the sign for the church. On your right is the village cross, which was erected in 1976. The carvings depict a range of images both ancient and modern.
8. At the end of the lane, go through the gate into the churchyard. Pass the church on your right then turn immediately right and follow the footpath back to your starting point. Maybe treat yourself to a pub meal...
