The Great Outdoors Itinerary

Across the harbour on the chain ferry to Studland, the dunes, the coast path and Old Harry Rocks.

A day on the other side of the water, where the landscape changes completely within four minutes of leaving Poole.

Morning: the crossing

The chain ferry from Sandbanks crosses the harbour entrance in about four minutes and lands you in a different world: heath, dunes and National Trust coastline. Note the vehicle restrictions if you are bringing a coach.

Midday: Studland

Studland has miles of sand backed by dunes and heath, with views back across the harbour mouth to Sandbanks.

Afternoon: Old Harry Rocks

The coast path south leads to Old Harry Rocks, the chalk stacks that mark the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast. Roughly a mile and a half each way from Studland, mostly level with a gentle climb.

Back

Return by ferry, or extend to Corfe Castle if the day allows.

Wear proper footwear and take a windproof layer: the headland is exposed whatever the forecast said in town.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

How do you get from Poole to Studland?

The Sandbanks chain ferry crosses the harbour mouth in about four minutes, taking cars, bikes and foot passengers. The alternative is a long road route round through Wareham.

How far is the walk to Old Harry Rocks?

From Studland it is a straightforward coastal walk of roughly a mile and a half each way, mostly level with a gentle climb to the headland, giving views along the Jurassic Coast.

Planning your visit?

Where to stay in Poole

Sandbanks hotels, harbourside flats a street back from the Quay and the quieter beds out at Hamworthy and Broadstone, with the areas each one suits.

Where to stay →