Lee Gilbert

View Original

Jurrasic Coast Hike - Isle of Portland Circular Walk

The Isle of Portland circular is a popular walk, and for good reason.  It is part of the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coastal Path so there are many wonderful views and interesting sights. 

At the southern end (Portland Bill) is Portland Lighthouse warning maritime vessels of the rocky peninsula’s existence.  Depending on weather conditions and tides the sea beyond the lighthouse, the infamous Portland Race, can be treacherous for seafarers and is always a concern for sailors passing through it heading in either direction.

In the same area is Pulpit Rock which is a large artificial stack of rocks left by quarrymen in the 1870s.  Towards the end of the walk you will experience the most spectacular views, to the west, of Chesil beach, a 19 mile length of shingle that protects low lying villages from flooding.  There are also 2 prisons still on the isle of Portland; HMP The Verne, and a Young Offenders Institution.

In terms of difficulty, the total distance is 9 miles and it will take around 4 hours to complete.  Some parts of the path are uneven and rocky under foot and there are a few ups and downs, but nothing to difficult.

Where does the walk start and finish?

The walk starts and finsihes at the parking bay's on on Brandy Row.

See this map in the original post

Route Details

Download GPX route file

What is a GPX file?

GPX stands for 'GPS eXchange Format' which contains route details that can be uploaded for use with most outdoor sports GPS navigation devices.

I don't have a GPS navigation device, can I still use the file?

Yes, if you have an iPhone or smartphone there are many walking/hiking apps that will allow you to upload the GPX file via the web for use on your iPhone or smartphone.

For the iPhone I recommend GB Outdoors for walking and hiking in the UK and have detailed instructions on using the app.

View the route at GB Outdoors

Once you have signed up for an account you will be able to view my route online.