The best walks and hikes around Steeple With Tyneham

The area is located within the Ministry of Defence's Lulworth Ranges. This means public access is generally restricted to weekends and main public holidays. It's crucial to check the Lulworth Range firing times before you travel, as roads and paths can be closed.

The main car park is located at Tyneham Village, which provides direct access to the abandoned village and the walk to Worbarrow Bay. Another option is the Whiteways Car Park and Viewpoint, which is a good starting point for accessing trails on the Purbeck hills. Both can get busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Yes, the region offers several easier walks suitable for families. A popular choice is the Worbarrow Bay – Tyneham Village loop from Tyneham. This 4.2-mile (6.7 km) trail is relatively gentle and allows you to explore the historic Tyneham Valley and the secluded bay.

Tyneham Village was evacuated in 1943 during World War II to be used for military training. The residents were promised they could return, but the village was never reoccupied. Today, you can walk among the ruined houses and visit the restored schoolhouse and church, which have exhibitions telling the story of the village and its people.

Yes. Because this is an active military range, it is extremely important to stick to the marked paths at all times. Do not touch any metal objects you may find on the ground, as they could be unexploded ordnance. Always adhere to the official opening times and respect all warning signs.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique historical atmosphere of Tyneham village, and the wild, unspoiled character of the landscape preserved by the military range.

There are over 35 hiking routes to explore in the region. These range from 15 easy walks suitable for most abilities to 5 difficult treks for experienced hikers with a high level of fitness.

The area is excellent for circular walks. For a moderate challenge with rewarding views, consider the Tyneham Cap Viewpoint – Worbarrow Bay loop from Kimmeridge. This 7.6-mile (12.3 km) route offers fantastic coastal scenery and takes you up to a great viewpoint.

The region is packed with natural and historical sights. Key highlights include:

Tyneham 'Ghost' Village: The ruins of a village evacuated in WWII.

Worbarrow Bay: A beautiful and often quiet pebble beach.

Gad Cliff: Offers dramatic clifftop views along the South West Coast Path.

Fossil Forest: A geologically important site showing fossilised remains of an ancient forest near Lulworth Cove.

Dogs are welcome on the public rights of way within the Lulworth Ranges, but they must be kept on a lead at all times due to grazing livestock and the military nature of the area. Always follow the Countryside Code and be mindful of cliff edges.

Yes, for those seeking a tough challenge, the Kimmerage Bay, St Aldhelm's Head & Swyre Head loop from Kimmerage — Isle of Purbeck is a demanding 15.1-mile (24.4 km) trek. It requires a very good level of fitness to tackle the significant elevation along this dramatic section of the Jurassic Coast.