The Best Places to Walk near Poole This Spring
With the clocks going forward on March 30th, we’ll enjoy longer, lighter evenings, with beautiful sunsets and more sunshine—perfect for exploring the great outdoors! Spring also brings warmer temperatures and fresh, vibrant landscapes, making it an ideal time to plan your 2025 spring staycation in Poole.
Nestled along the stunning south coast of Dorset, Poole is home to breathtaking nature trails, coastal paths, and scenic countryside walks. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a relaxing stroll, these top walking spots should be on your list!

Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove – A Coastal Wonderland
The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is without a doubt one of Britain’s most spectacular coastal destinations, known for its dramatic cliffs, fossil-rich beaches, and iconic landforms. In particular, two must-visit locations along this 95-mile coastline are Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.

Durdle Door is a world-famous limestone arch standing tall over the turquoise sea. Take in breathtaking views from the clifftop or venture down the steps to the pebbled beach for a closer look. On a sunny day, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Lulworth Cove, just a short walk away, is a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay formed over 10,000 years ago. The cove’s tranquil waters and unique geological features make it a popular destination for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
📍 Distance from Poole: Approx. 40-minute drive
🥾 Best for: Coastal views, moderate hiking, photography
☕ Nearby Refreshments: Cafés and pubs in Lulworth village
RSPB Arne – A Wildlife Haven
If you love wildlife and birdwatching, RSPB Arne is a must-visit! Just a 20-minute drive from Poole, this stunning nature reserve is home to all six of the UK’s native reptile species and a variety of rare birds, including Dartford Warblers and Woodlarks. Arne’s incredible range of wildlife has been appreciated by the BBC and featured on the latest series of Winterwatch, tracking the day-to-day experiences of white-tailed sea eagles, foxes, owls, deer, and much more using live cameras! This national recognition highlights Arne as one of the best destinations in the UK for nature enthusiasts.

Explore diverse landscapes—from heathland and woodlands to wetlands and mudflats—before reaching a picturesque shoreline with views over Poole Harbour and Round Island. Keep an eye out for Sika Deer, often spotted grazing in the reserve.
🍽️ On-Site Café: Enjoy coffee, cake, and light lunches at the RSPB-run café.
💰 Entry Fee: Free for RSPB members; small fee for non-members to support conservation efforts.

Upton Country Park – History & Nature Combined
Just minutes from Poole, Upton Country Park offers 160 acres of lush parkland, woodlands, and beautiful gardens—perfect for a springtime walk. The park boasts six diverse natural habitats, 2.6km of scenic coastline, and a fascinating 2,000-year history.
🚶 Highlights:
- The Discovery Project, a recent £2.3 million investment, enhances accessibility and visitor experiences.
- Visit Upton Country House, a Grade II-listed Georgian mansion standing for over 200 years.
- Spot local wildlife in the park’s diverse ecosystems.

📍 Distance from Poole: 5-minute drive
🥾 Best for: Family-friendly walks, dog walking, historical interest
☕ On-Site Café: Enjoy refreshments at the Tea Rooms.
Kingston Lacy – A Historic Estate with Stunning Landscapes
Located near Wimborne Minster, Kingston Lacy is a breathtaking country home designed to resemble a Venetian Palace. The estate is rich in history and art, featuring a remarkable collection of historic paintings and antiques.
Beyond the mansion, the 8,500-acre estate offers a variety of landscapes, perfect for a springtime stroll. Visitors can explore beautifully maintained gardens, a Japanese Garden, and vast open parklands where Red Ruby Devon cattle graze.


Right now, Kingston Lacy is even more beautiful, transformed into a sea of white as thousands of snowdrops bloom, creating a magical spectacle that can only be enjoyed once a year—don’t miss it!
📍 Distance from Poole: Approx. 30-minute drive
🥾 Best for: History lovers, scenic walks, photography
☕ On-Site Café: Enjoy refreshments while soaking in the estate’s beauty.
Poole Park – A Victorian Gem
Dating back to the Victorian era, Poole Park is a much-loved green space with 110 acres of open parkland, gardens, and play areas. Evidently, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxing stroll or a family day out.
🌿 Key Features:
- A large saltwater lake, home to swans and ducks
- Tennis courts and open green spaces
- Scenic circular walks leading to Poole Harbour, Poole Quay, and Old Town Poole
- Recent improvements funded by a £2.7 million National Lottery Heritage Fund grant

Looking for refreshments? The Kitchen Restaurant offers stunning waterside views, while The Ark serves delicious ice cream, undoubtedly welcomed during the warmer months.
📍 Distance from Poole town centre: Walking distance
🥾 Best for: Leisurely strolls, family outings, birdwatching
🍽️ Nearby Dining: The Kitchen Restaurant & The Ark

Plan Your Perfect Spring Staycation in Poole
With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to book your 2025 getaway and explore Poole’s incredible landscapes before the summer crowds arrive.
Looking for the perfect holiday home? We can help you find accommodation tailored to your needs. Availability for the Easter Holidays won’t last long—so book now!
📞 Call us at 01202 683333
📧 Email stay@quayholidays.co.uk
🌐 Visit Quay Holidays to browse available properties.