Walking in Weymouth and Portland (2024)

Weymouth and Portland has a wealth of walks, trails andlocal footpaths and bridlewaysto explore. You can travel through 20 million years of Jurassic time, explore flowery meadows andfossil-filled quarries and a wild coastline with an array of wildlife both on land and in the sea. One great way is walking theSouth West Coast Pathwhich skirts aroundWeymouth and the Isle of Portland.

For more information about other local walks seeWalking in WeymouthandWalking in Portland.

South West Coast Path

The South West Coast Pathis a great way to explore Weymouth and Portland and beyond. Dramatic landscapes and seascapes are at every twist and turn along this coastal walk.

Walking maps of Littlemoor

Walking maps of Littlemoorencouraging more people to walk and cycle in the local area.

Portland quarry trails

Portland's quarrying history has created a unique landscape to explore. Portland quarry trailsisa short walk, less than 2km, where you can find out about the famous Portland rock and quarries, how the stone was worked and transported over a century ago and the wildlife living there now.

The Rodwell Trail

The Rodwell Trail is very popular with pedestrians, cyclists and dog walkers taking in 3.5k along Weymouth's old railway line and Sandsfoot Castle.

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Walking in Weymouth and Portland (2024)

FAQs

Can you walk from Portland to Weymouth? ›

This walk was inspired by a BBC 'Railway Walks' program featuring a disused railway line between Weymouth and the Isle of Portland. It also features the sea, a stage of the South West Coast Path ("SWCP"), and industrial archeology - the quarrying of Portland stone.

What is Portland Weymouth famous for? ›

Portland is known world-wide for its sailing waters - the National Sailing Academy is based here which was the host venue for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic sailing events.

How long does it take to walk around Portland Bill? ›

This route is 2 miles (3.5km) and will take approx. an hour to walk.

How long is the Rodwell Trail in Weymouth in miles? ›

The Rodwell Trail is a short-distance footpath that runs from Wyke Regis to the town centre of Weymouth in Dorset – a distance of 2¼ miles (3.5 kilometres). The trail, opened in 2000, travels along the former route of the Weymouth and Portland Railway.

Can you walk from Chesil Beach to Portland? ›

Technically, Chesil Beach is 18 miles long, and runs from Portland at Chesil Cove, past Abbotsbury (where the spit rejoins the mainland), and on to West Bay near Bridport, so this walk is only walking part of the beach.

Is Portland very walkable? ›

(KOIN) — Portland is one of the nation's top five cities where you can go far with no car, according to a new report that ranked U.S. destinations by walkability.

Why is Weymouth so popular? ›

A seaside resort, Weymouth and its economy depend on tourism. Visitors are attracted by its harbour and position, approximately halfway along the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site, important for its geology and landforms.

What is the nice side of Portland? ›

Q: What is the coolest neighborhood in Portland? A: Nob Hill is the coolest Portland neighborhood on the west side of the river, thanks to its many trendy boutique shops, great restaurants and bars, and walkability. On the east side of the river, SE Hawthorne is generally considered the coolest or hip part of town.

What is Portland mostly known for? ›

Known for its eclectic and vibrant culture, Portland offers a unique blend of urban attractions and natural beauty. From the iconic Powell's City of Books to the breathtaking International Rose Test Garden, the city is a haven for book lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Is Portland Bill worth visiting? ›

The famous red and white lighthouse stands 41 metres tall and was built in 1906 to warn boats of the dangerous coastline. The lighthouse, fully automated since 1996, is a truly spectacular sight by day or night, and is open as a visitor attraction along with the former lighthouse keepers' dwellings.

How much time do you need to explore Portland? ›

You can see many of Portland's most popular attractions in two to three days if you stay in or near downtown. If you'd like to visit Mount Hood, hike in the Columbia Gorge, visit the Oregon Coast, or see how locals live by spending time in one of Portland's many neighborhoods, we recommend at least five days.

Can you go inside Portland Bill? ›

Portland Bill is located at the southernmost tip of the Isle of Portland. It is perhaps best known for its lighthouse, which is painted in distinctive red and white colours. The lighthouse is open to visitors and it is possible to climb the steep steps during a guided tour.

How long is the Weymouth tramway? ›

The overall length of the line is approximately 1 mile. From the King Street crossing south the line has been sold by Network Rail to Weymouth & Portland BC. The sale took place in 2009 (See BBC News report). The line was authorised as part of the Act of Parliament for the Weymouth & Portland Railway.

How long is the Promenade at Weymouth? ›

The Esplanade, Weymouth
The Esplanade, Weymouth looking towards Jubilee Clock
Length1.3 mi (2.1 km)
Coordinates50.6128°N 2.4532°W
south endWeymouth Ferry Terminal
north endPreston Road
2 more rows

How long is the Dorset Trailway? ›

The North Dorset Trailway is a well maintained path which extends approx. 14 miles from Sturminster Newton to Spetisbury. A safe route for walkers, runners, cyclists, equestrians and people with mobility scooters.

What is the bypass around Portland? ›

I-205 runs north-south east of Portland's city core and serves as a 37-mile bypass route of I-5 allowing commuters to avoid traveling through downtown especially during times of heavy traffic. Both I-5 and I-205 connect Vancouver in the north to Portland and its suburbs in the south.

How do you get from Portland to the coast without a car? ›

The best way to get from Portland to Oregon Coast without a car is to train and bus which takes 6h 1m and costs $6 - $90. How long does it take to get from Portland to Oregon Coast? It takes approximately 6h 1m to get from Portland to Oregon Coast, including transfers.

Can you walk the entire Oregon coast? ›

The majesty of Oregon's 362-mile coastline unfolds around every bend along the Oregon Coast Trail, also known as the OCT. Hikers cross sandy beaches, meander through forest-shaded corridors, traverse majestic headlands and pass through 28 coastal towns.

Can you walk on Portland Breakwater? ›

CAN I GO AND LOOK AROUND THE BREAKWATER FORT? Landing at the Breakwater Fort is prohibited due to Heath & Safety concerns and insurance liabilities. Many of the buildings are in a poor state of repair, there is signage indicating this. Landing is against the bylaws and may lead to prosecution.

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