Accommodation near the South West Coast Path - Dartmouth to Poole

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Dartmouth to Poole Coast Path – Places to Stay Near the Route

The South West Coast Path from Dartmouth to Poole follows one of the most varied and rewarding sections of this iconic long-distance trail, taking in dramatic cliffs, sweeping bays, and the ever-changing coastline of South Devon and Dorset. Beginning in the historic harbour town of Dartmouth, the route heads east along rugged coastal paths, passing through picturesque villages, sandy coves, and elevated headlands with far-reaching sea views.

As the walk progresses, the scenery gradually transitions from the rolling cliffs of Devon into the distinctive landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, where striking rock formations and fossil-rich beaches add geological interest to the journey. Walkers will encounter a mix of terrain, including narrow cliff-top paths, woodland sections, and occasional quieter lanes, with frequent ascents and descents that make this a rewarding but moderately challenging route overall.

The route concludes at the Sandbanks Ferry near Poole, where the path meets the entrance to Poole Harbour. This scenic finishing point offers expansive views across the water and provides a natural endpoint to this coastal stretch, with easy onward connections and nearby accommodation options to rest after completing the walk.

Route length
157.3 miles
Accommodation options:
472 hotels, inns and B&Bs
Total elevation gain:
8540 m
Total elevation loss:
8554 m
Lowest point:
-2 m
Highest point:
172.4 m
Elevation gain and loss represent the total cumulative ascent and descent across the full route.

Route map and nearby hotels

Route line Other linked hotels Current hotel Hihest point

Elevation profile

The chart shows the route from start to finish. If a hotel has been selected, its nearest position on the route is shown as a highlighted marker.

Accessibility

This route is suitable for Walkers

About the Terrain

Difficulty: 🟠 Moderate

This section of the South West Coast Path from Dartmouth to Poole is graded as moderate to challenging, with varied terrain as the route crosses from South Devon into Dorset. The path is generally well waymarked but includes frequent ascents and descents, particularly along the Devon coastline, with uneven surfaces such as rocky paths, grassy tracks, and occasional steep steps.

As the route continues east, the landscape gradually becomes less rugged, especially across parts of the Dorset coastline, where some sections are more moderate and easier underfoot. However, the overall distance and continued elevation changes still require a reasonable level of fitness. The path is not suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, or cyclists, though some shorter, flatter stretches near towns may be more accessible.

The route finishes at the Sandbanks Ferry near Poole, where the path meets the entrance to Poole Harbour. Along the way, a good selection of hotels, inns, and B&Bs can be found in coastal towns and villages, making it easy to plan the journey in manageable stages with comfortable overnight stops.

The route shown is intended to give a general sense of how nearby accommodation is positioned in relation to the walk, helping you gauge proximity rather than providing a detailed navigation guide. While the map outlines the route, it should be viewed as an overview only and may not reflect every turn, feature, or on-the-ground condition you may encounter.

For the walk itself, it is advisable to use a reliable map and/or an electronic navigation aid to assist with route finding, particularly in areas where paths may be less distinct or conditions change. Taking time to plan ahead, check local information, and prepare for varying terrain and weather will help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Selected hotel

Select a hotel from the list to highlight its location on the route and see where it sits on the elevation profile.

Hotels along this walking trail