The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Whitchurch Canonicorum
4.5
(1308)
9,826
hikers
26
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Whitchurch Canonicorum are set within the Marshwood Vale in West Dorset, an area known for its diverse landscapes and natural features. The region encompasses parts of the Jurassic Coast, featuring dramatic cliffs and ancient geological formations. Hikers can explore rolling hills, including Golden Cap (191 meters) and Pilsdon Pen, as well as tranquil river valleys like the River Char. This varied terrain provides a range of outdoor experiences for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(59)
196
hikers
9.26km
02:46
280m
280m
Embark on the Golden Cap and Stonebarrow Hill Circular Trail, a moderate hike spanning 5.8 miles (9.3 km) with an elevation gain of 921 feet (281 metres). This route offers…
4.2
(6)
17
hikers
6.31km
01:57
240m
230m
Embark on the Westhay Water & Charmouth loop from Stonebarrow Hill, an easy 3.9 miles (6.3 km) hike along the dramatic Jurassic Coast. This route offers a varied terrain of…
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4.0
(3)
21
hikers
4.30km
01:18
140m
140m
Embark on an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hike along the Charmouth loop via the South West Coast Path, offering spectacular coastal views across Lyme Bay. This route, which you can…
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.44km
01:58
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Whitchurch Canonicorum
Tips from the Community
On the right day the views across to Lyme Regis and towards Portland are spectacular.
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The highest point on the south coast of England. quite the lung opener and leg burner to reach. well worth it with the views though. Just be careful near the cliff edge. Constantly eroding away.
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Situated on the Dorset/Devon border and just two miles from Lyme Regis, Charmouth is a quiet, unspoilt village, with lots of amenities. The village has a rich history going back hundreds of years, and was once on the main road from London to Exeter. As a consequence of this historical strategic location the village has seen many important visitors over the years with King Charles II staying in the village during his escape to France, and Jane Austen who, as a regular visitor, once wrote that Charmouth was “a nice place for sitting in unwearied contemplation”. Fortunately these days the busy roads bypass the village, and Charmouth retains the charm and tranquility it has enjoyed for hundreds of years. Charmouth is best known for its beach. Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, the local coastline provides an unique insight into millions of years of evolution, and of course is best known as the Jurassic Coast due to the large number of fossils that can be found on the beaches. However, the beach is not just for fossil hunters, having large areas of sand and gently shelving waters that make it an ideal family day out when the sun shines. The local cafés, shops and the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre provide food, drink, beach goods and information about the geology and fossils. Within the village Charmouth has a wide range of shops to ensure that visitors do not need to venture further afield during their stay. Everything from daily essentials, household and holiday goods, gifts, and beauty salons all available right in the village centre. A range of pubs, restaurants and cafés give a fantastic choice of refreshments from breakfast to dinner. As part of both the Jurassic Coast and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it is possible to lose yourself in sights, countryside and wildlife.
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Stunning views of Lyme Regis from the top of Stonebarrow hill
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Opening1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 * March to October: 7 days a week from 10:30am until 4:30pm. (Closed Tuesdays in March) November to February: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10:30am until 4.00pm. Ticket Type Ticket Tariff Beach Clean / Nurdle Hunt Free Centre Admission Free Fossil Hunting Walk (Adult) £14.00 per ticket Fossil Hunting Walk (Child) £8.00 per ticket Seashore Safari (Adult) £10.00 per ticket Seashore Safari (Child) £5.00 per ticket Visit Raffle, a rare 3D plesiosaur skeleton. Named after Raffle the dog, who found the fossil whilst walking the beach with owner Tracey Barclay, this unique Jurassic marine reptile is one of the few 3D Lower Jurassic plesiosaurs in the world. Free to enter, it has an incredible array of fossils on display from the world-famous Jurassic Coast. Meet their newest and biggest residents: Raffle, a 3D plesiosaur skeleton, and David Attenborough’s Sea Dragon (as seen on TV). All the fossils are kindly on temporary loan from local fossil collectors, and so with more fossils found every day, the displays are frequently changing to showcase the newest fossils. Going out fossil hunting? they'll get you geared up to help you hunt! Whether that’s joining a guided fossil hunting walk with their expert wardens (run all year round) or getting free hints and tips from the knowledgeable volunteers in the Centre, they are there to help. Being right on the seafront of the world-class fossil hunting beach of Charmouth, they are well placed to identify your fossil finds too. The gift shop and online shop are well stocked to help you too, including fossil hunting kits, fossil ID guides and books. Right at the heart of the Lyme Bay Marine Conservation Area, they also celebrate the life under the waves. Between April – October they fill their catch and release fish tank with creatures from Charmouth’s rockpools. Why not join them on a Seashore Safari where they discover the fascinating local rockpool creatures. they are passionate about keeping the seas clean, and run regular free beach cleans and nurdle hunts. Public walks can be booked via their website: www.charmouth.org/chcc/events-calendar/.
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Beach huts are available to hire for the summer or winter seasons. They can also be hired on a daily or weekly basis between May-September. Full time residents of Charmouth Parish may enter an annual lottery for a number of huts that are made available for the summer season at 50% of the full price. These are normally located on the grass area. The lottery also includes blue huts on the beach which are restricted initially to residents with children aged under 18. The lottery takes place at the beginning of April each year. ** PLEASE NOTE THAT SEASONAL HUTS ARE FULLY BOOKED FOR THIS YEAR AND THE SUBSTANTIAL WAITING LIST IS CURRENTLY CLOSED**
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More information about opening times etc. can be found here: https://charmouth.org/chcc/ Important⚠️!! You are not allowed to be on some parts of the beach at high tide, as there is a risk of being trapped or the beach could flood. The tide table is available in the visitor center and you can also find out the best time of day to search there. We had fun, the beach is very beautiful and we found something 😉
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Whitchurch Canonicorum?
There are nearly 30 family-friendly hiking trails around Whitchurch Canonicorum, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. This guide features 11 easy routes and 18 moderate ones, ensuring there's something suitable for families with varying experience levels.
Are there easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, there are several easy and short walks perfect for families with young children. For example, the Smugglers Trail at Stonebarrow is a gentle 2.2 km loop with minimal elevation, offering a pleasant outing for little legs. Another great option is the Charmouth loop via the South West Coast Path, which is just over 4 km and offers coastal views.
What kind of views and natural features can we expect on these family hikes?
The family-friendly hikes around Whitchurch Canonicorum offer a stunning variety of landscapes. You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast, Lyme Bay, and the Marshwood Vale. Highlights include the iconic Golden Cap Summit, the highest point on the South Coast, and the dramatic West Bay Cliffs. Many trails also feature rolling hills, tranquil river valleys like the River Char, and the ancient geological formations of the Jurassic Coast.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many of the family-friendly trails are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. A popular choice is the Golden Cap and Stonebarrow Hill Circular Trail, which is a moderate 9.3 km route offering spectacular coastal vistas. For an easier option, consider the Charmouth loop walk, an easy 5.4 km coastal path.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several interesting landmarks. The historic Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point offers views over the rolling Dorset countryside and archaeological significance. You might also encounter the ancient Church of St. Candida and Holy Cross in Whitchurch Canonicorum itself, a unique pilgrimage site. Coastal routes often lead to charming spots like Charmouth Beach, known for fossil hunting, and West Bay Harbour.
Is Whitchurch Canonicorum a good place for beginner family hikers?
Yes, Whitchurch Canonicorum is very welcoming for beginner family hikers. The region offers 11 easy trails, many of which are relatively flat and short, making them ideal for those new to hiking or families with younger children. These routes provide a gentle introduction to the area's stunning scenery without being overly strenuous.
Are the family-friendly hiking trails dog-friendly?
Many trails in the Whitchurch Canonicorum area are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths and bridleways. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly near livestock, on coastal paths with steep drops, and during bird nesting seasons. Specific routes like the Westhay Water & Charmouth loop from Stonebarrow Hill are generally suitable for dogs, but always check local signage.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in this region?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming in the Marshwood Vale and pleasant temperatures for coastal walks. Autumn also offers beautiful colours across the landscape. While winter can be crisp and clear, some coastal paths might be muddy or exposed to strong winds, so appropriate gear is essential. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Are there options for parking near the trailheads?
Yes, many popular trailheads and starting points, such as Stonebarrow Hill, offer dedicated parking facilities. In villages like Charmouth and Whitchurch Canonicorum, you'll often find public car parks or roadside parking options. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Whitchurch Canonicorum?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars from 180 ratings. Reviewers often praise the incredible coastal views, the diverse landscapes ranging from dramatic cliffs to peaceful valleys, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings. The sense of history and natural beauty, especially along the Jurassic Coast, is frequently highlighted.
Are there any family-friendly routes that include a visit to Charmouth Beach?
Yes, several routes offer access to Charmouth Beach, which is a fantastic spot for families to explore and even try fossil hunting. The Westhay Water & Charmouth loop from Stonebarrow Hill is an easy 6.3 km loop that takes you along the Jurassic Coast and includes Charmouth Beach. Another great option is the Charmouth loop via the South West Coast Path.
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