Explore Activities in Studland
Discover Walking, Kayaking, Horse Riding and Outdoor Adventures in Studland
For guests staying in our holiday cottages in Dorset, Studland is one of those places that encourages you to spend the entire day outside. Whether you’re walking to Old Harry Rocks, paddling beneath the chalk cliffs, riding across the heathland or simply stopping to admire the views, it’s one of Dorset’s best destinations for outdoor adventures.
There are countless walks in Studland, from gentle National Trust trails across the heathland to the iconic clifftop route leading to Old Harry Rocks. We’ve walked these paths in every season, and the views across Poole Bay, Brownsea Island and the Isle of Wight never disappoint.
Kayaking from Studland towards Old Harry Rocks is one of our favourite ways to experience this coastline. We’ve paddled the route several times during calm summer mornings, and seeing the famous chalk stacks from sea level offers a completely different perspective. Always check conditions before heading out and wear appropriate buoyancy equipment.
Explore Activities in Studland
Dragon’s Teeth
Historical Landmark: concrete anti-tank defences
Old Harry Rocks
Iconic chalk stacks
Riding across the heath towards Agglestone Rock is one of Dorset’s most memorable riding experiences, particularly during late summer when the heathland is alive with colour.
For golfers, the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club is one of Dorset’s finest courses. Opened in 1892, its spectacular clifftop setting means the views are almost as memorable as the golf itself. The course also has a fascinating literary connection, having once been owned by Enid Blyton and her husband Kenneth Darrell Waters.
Why We Love Exploring Studland
No matter how many times we visit, Studland always encourages us to stay outdoors a little longer. We’ve paddled beneath Old Harry Rocks, walked across the heath to Agglestone Rock, enjoyed long afternoons on the coast path and finished the day watching the sun set over the bay. It’s one of those rare places where simply being outside feels like the attraction.
Studland is one of those places that changes beautifully with the seasons. Spring brings wildflowers across the heathland and quieter walking trails. Summer is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding and beach days. Autumn offers cooler temperatures for exploring Old Harry Rocks and Agglestone Rock, while winter transforms the coastline into one of Dorset’s most dramatic places for coastal walks and photography.
If you’re bringing a camera, early mornings around Old Harry Rocks and the heathland offer beautiful light with fewer visitors. Autumn colours across the heath are spectacular, while winter often produces dramatic skies above the chalk cliffs. As always, keep well back from cliff edges and respect National Trust guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Studland is home to some of Dorset’s finest coastal walks. The clifftop route to Old Harry Rocks is the most popular, while quieter National Trust trails cross the heathland towards Agglestone Rock. We’ve walked these routes throughout the year and each season offers something different.
Yes. Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience Studland’s coastline, particularly on calm days when conditions are suitable. Paddling towards Old Harry Rocks offers an unforgettable perspective of the famous chalk stacks from the water. Kayaks and paddleboards can be hired from Knoll Beach during the season, but always check weather and tide conditions, wear appropriate buoyancy equipment and only paddle within your abilities.
Yes. Studland Trekking Centre offers guided rides across the heathland, woodland, beaches and surrounding countryside, including popular pub rides. Riding towards Agglestone Rock is one of the most memorable ways to experience this beautiful part of the Isle of Purbeck.
Absolutely. Widely regarded as one of Dorset’s finest golf courses, the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club combines challenging golf with spectacular coastal scenery. Opened in 1892, the course also has a fascinating literary connection, having once been owned by Enid Blyton and her husband Kenneth Darrell Waters.
Studland is perfect for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Walking to Old Harry Rocks, kayaking and paddleboarding, horse riding across the heathland, wildlife watching and golfing at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club are among our favourite ways to experience this beautiful stretch of Dorset’s coastline. If you’re looking for even more memorable ways to experience Dorset, our guide to Extraordinary Luxury Experiences in Dorset includes paddleboarding adventures, wildlife experiences and other unforgettable days out across the county.
Yes. Knoll Beach is one of Dorset’s most popular places for paddleboarding, particularly during calm weather. More experienced paddlers often head towards Old Harry Rocks, although we only recommend this when conditions are suitable and appropriate safety equipment is used.
Definitely. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a longer coastal hike, Studland has something for everyone. Walk to Old Harry Rocks, explore the National Trust heathland, discover Agglestone Rock, or follow the South West Coast Path towards Swanage. It’s one of our favourite places in Dorset to stretch our legs.
Families will find plenty to keep everyone entertained, from building sandcastles and exploring rock pools to paddleboarding, kayaking and gentle walks across the dunes. If you’re planning a family holiday, our collection of family-friendly holiday cottages provides an excellent base for exploring Studland and the wider Isle of Purbeck.
Yes. Much of Studland is protected by the National Trust, creating an important habitat for rare birds, reptiles and insects. The heathland, dunes and coastline make it one of Dorset’s best places for wildlife watching throughout the year.
Yes. Quiet lanes, heathland tracks and nearby cycling routes make Studland a wonderful place to explore on two wheels. Many visitors also combine Studland with nearby Wareham and Corfe Castle, creating a fantastic day exploring the Isle of Purbeck by bike.
Many guests choose our Silverlake Estate Collection as a base for exploring Studland and the wider Isle of Purbeck. Within easy reach of Studland, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Lulworth Cove and the Jurassic Coast, it provides an excellent base for walking, cycling, kayaking and discovering some of Dorset’s most spectacular scenery.