About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
About Dorset
Dorset, a stunning county on England’s southern coast, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its dramatic cliffs, historic landscapes, and expansive beaches, Dorset offers an array of outdoor activities that cater to adventure seekers of all ages and skill levels. From paddle boarding and swimming to walking and island exploration, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque region. The main towns in Dorset include Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, Christchurch, Dorchester and Bridport.
Dorset’s amazing Jurassic coastline is perfect for paddle boarding. With its sheltered bays and clear waters, there are plenty of spots for beginners while more experienced paddlers can explore further afield. Poole Harbour, is a popular paddling spot. Here, you can glide past yachts and enjoy views of the rolling Purbeck hills. Venture to the iconic Durdle Door, where the limestone arch and calm waters create an idyllic backdrop for paddling. Local shops offer rentals and lessons, ensuring you have everything you need for a day on the water.
Dorset also boasts some of the finest beaches in the UK, many of which are awarded Blue Flags for cleanliness and water quality. The sandy shores of Bournemouth provide a family-friendly swimming spot with lifeguards on duty to ensure safety. For a more secluded experience, visit Studland Bay, where gentle waters and sheltered coves make for perfect swimming conditions. The area’s natural beauty is unmatched, with views stretching across to the Isle of Wight.
Walking enthusiasts will find Dorset’s landscapes a dream. The South West Coast Path, stretching along the Jurassic Coast, offers routes ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the coastline, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring natural wonders like the Old Harry Rocks and Lulworth Cove. Inland, the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a network of footpaths through ancient woodlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful retreats and stunning countryside vistas.
Exploring the islands around Dorset is a must. Brownsea Island, accessible by ferry from Poole, is an oasis of natural heritage. It’s one of the few places in England where red squirrels thrive and offers ample opportunities for wildlife photography. History buffs will appreciate the Isle of Portland, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Portland’s rich maritime history and rugged terrain make it a fascinating destination for both casual visitors and seasoned explorers.
Overall, Dorset’s diverse range of activities and its natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature. Whether it’s the thrill of paddle boarding, the relaxation of a swim, the challenge of a hike, or the joy of discovering new islands, Dorset provides an outdoor experience that is both enriching and exciting.
With its accessible location, natural beauty and charming towns Dorset has it all. Plan your trip to Dorset for an unforgettable adventure in one of the UK’s most beautiful and versatile outdoor playgrounds.
Paddleboarding in Dorset
Explore the joys of paddle boarding in Dorset, England’s coastal gem. Dorset offers some of the most scenic paddle boarding spots in the UK, with its stunning cliffs, serene beaches, and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, Dorset’s diverse coastline provides perfect conditions for everyone.
There are paddle boarding adventures all along the world-famous Jurassic Coast from the golden sands of Studland and secluded coves around Lulworth and Durdle Door to the fossil-rich beaches of Charmouth and beyond. The calm waters of Poole Harbour offer a safe haven for novices, while the more adventurous can venture around Old Harry Rocks or paddle around Brownsea Island. Inland the tranquil, meandering rivers beckon.
Local outfitters provide all the necessary equipment and offer guided tours that highlight hidden gems and the best sunset spots and there is a vibrant paddling community on Dorset’s waterways.
Here are some of our favourite paddles in Dorset:
Charmouth to Lyme Regis
Litton Lakes
West Bay to Bridport
Portland Harbour Explorer
Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
Kimmeridge Bay
Swanage Bay Explorer
Studland to Old Harry Rocks
Bramble Bush Bay and Islands
Brownsea Island Circumnavigation
Whitley Lake, Poole Harbour
Wareham to Gigger’s Island
Eyebridge to Coventry Arms
Blandford to Keyneston Mill
Christchurch Two Rivers Loop
Mudeford Quay and Christchurch Harbour
Islands in Dorset
Discover the enchanting islands of Dorset, iconic treasures along this beautiful coastline.
The largest island in Poole Harbour is Brownsea Island, renowned for its wildlife and as the birthplace of the Scouting movement. This tranquil spot in Poole Harbour offers lush woodlands, thriving red squirrel populations, and peaceful walking paths. There are numerous other smaller private islands in Poole Harbour. Nearby, Portland, connected to the mainland by Chesil Beach, is famous for its stone quarries, lighthouse and great scenery.
Whether you’re hiking, bird-watching, or simply seeking solitude, Dorset’s islands provide an escape into nature’s embrace. Ideal for day trips or longer stays, they offer something for everyone—from sandy beaches and scenic hikes to historic forts and lighthouses. Experience the charm and diversity of Dorset’s islands for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Where to go Paddleboarding in Dorset
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Route Map page.
Top 5 Places to Paddle in Dorset
Looking for a place to paddle this weekend? The county of Dorset has some wonderful blue space with plenty of amazing places to SUP. From [...]
Paddleboarding around Brownsea Island
Spectacularly located in Poole harbour this clockwise circumnavigation of Brownsea Island, along with optional satellite islands, offers great views and plentiful bird watching opportunities
Walks in Dorset
We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Routes Map.
Walk to Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks are three iconic chalk formations, including a stack and a stump, located [...]
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What to do on Brownsea Island
It isn't surprising that Brownsea Island was voted the best nature reserve in the UK.
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