The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Toller Porcorum
4.6
(457)
2,825
hikers
10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Toller Porcorum are situated within the West Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by chalk downland, ancient hillforts, and tranquil river valleys. Hikers can explore rolling hills and river valleys, with routes often featuring flower-rich meadows and ancient woodlands. The landscape's well-preserved environments provide varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Toller Porcorum
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Kingcombe and…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
6.73km
01:48
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
6
hikers
7.56km
02:07
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Be careful here. The bridge is collapsing.
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Mon - closed Tues-Thurs: 5-9 Fri - 12-2, 5-9 Sat - 12-9 Sun - 12-5 Tuesday to Saturday their daily changing menu features seasonal favourites and sharing plates plus specials from their smoker, fire pit and pizza oven. On Sundays they offer a traditional roast with meats from local butchers with lighter options including salads & sharing plates. Their delicious desserts feature classics such as Dorset apple cake and Eton Mess plus specials including their caramelised apple pavlova with burnt toffee sauce. They work with local suppliers and smoke all their our own meats. Has a beautiful outdoors seating area and beer garden.
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The top of Eggardon Hill...... Not that you can tell by the pic. Bad conditions this day made for poor viewing.
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The church dates from Norman times and the chancel arch is of Early Norman architecture. Outside is a very rare thirteenth century Dole Table, from pre-Reformation times when charitable doles of bread were distributed to the poor. Inside the south entrance is a fifteenth century carving of a king and crowned woman giving bread to children. The north and south aisle date from the fourteenth century, and there are two hagioscopes (squints) on the southern side of the chancel arch, which would have given a view of the high alter. Above the squints there is a fifteenth century doorway, which when reached by a wooden stair, would have led to the roof loft. The south doorway within the porch is also fifteenth century and features elaborate carving.
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Farmer has been doing a bit of landscaping to this section. Logs have been moved to the side and are behind an electric fence.
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Eggardon Hill is a prehistoric hillfort, and sits at 827ft above sea level. The hill provides extensive views of the surrounding countryside and the English Channel to the south. The southern half of the hill is owned and maintained by The National Trust (which permits free public access throughout the year) with the northern part in private ownership. The large multivallate hillfort dates from the Iron Age. The surviving earthworks enclose an area of approximately 21ha in total. The defences consist of three ramparts with two medial ditches with additional outer banks to the north-west and east. Ditches and counterscarp banks provide additional protection at the staggered entrances and to the south west where there is an additional outwork. classified as a Hump (hill of any height with a drop of 100 metres or more on all sides)
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There are a couple of logs just to the left of this shot which makes a good stop off point
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This footpath to the west of Eggardon hill creates a nice short loop from the car park at the top of the hill. The walking is along a grassy path across fields, down the steep bank which forms the front face of the hill and back up to the hill via south Eggerdon Farm & North Eggerdon Farm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the hiking trails around Toller Porcorum suitable for families?
The trails around Toller Porcorum are nestled within the West Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a mix of rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, and ancient woodlands. Many routes feature gentle gradients and well-maintained paths, making them ideal for families with children. You'll find opportunities to explore nature reserves, historical sites, and enjoy picturesque views without overly strenuous climbs.
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Toller Porcorum?
Our guide features 8 family-friendly hiking trails around Toller Porcorum, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These routes are carefully selected to provide enjoyable experiences for various family fitness levels.
Are there any easy circular walks for families?
Yes, for a gentle and scenic circular walk, consider the Kingcombe and Toller Porcorum loop. This easy 6.7 km path follows gentle gradients through the beautiful Kingcombe valley, often passing through the Kingcombe Meadows nature reserve, which is great for spotting wildlife.
Can we bring our dog on these family hikes?
Many of the trails in the Toller Porcorum area are dog-friendly, especially those on public footpaths. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, particularly when passing through farmland with livestock or nature reserves to protect local wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
What kind of natural features or wildlife can we expect to see?
The area is rich in natural beauty, characterized by chalk downland, ancient woodlands, and river valleys like the River Frome and River Hooke. You might encounter flower-rich meadows and diverse wildlife, especially in areas like the Kingcombe Meadows nature reserve or Powerstock Common. The upland ridges also provide expansive views across West Dorset.
Are there any historical sites or interesting landmarks to explore along the trails?
Absolutely! The region is steeped in history. You can climb to an Iron Age hillfort on the View from Eggardon Hill – Eggardon Hill Trig Point loop, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into ancient times. Some routes, like the Toller Porcorum Park Loop, even include remnants of an old Roman road. The Frome Valley Trail, a repurposed old railway line, also offers historical interest.
What are some good options for slightly longer family hikes?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Lankham Bottom Nature Reserve loop from Toller Porcorum is a moderate 7.5 km hike with some elevation gain, offering beautiful views and a chance to explore a nature reserve. Another option is the Eggardon Hill loop, which is around 9.7 km and takes you to the Iron Age hillfort.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Many trailheads, especially those starting from villages like Toller Porcorum or near popular spots like Eggardon Hill, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information, as some smaller village starts might have limited roadside parking.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Toller Porcorum?
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes, with wildflowers blooming in the meadows and generally pleasant weather. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter can be crisp and clear, though paths might be muddier. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, regardless of the season.
Are there any trails with great viewpoints suitable for families?
Yes, the climb to Eggardon Hill, featured in routes like the View from Eggardon Hill – Eggardon Hill Trig Point loop, provides expansive panoramic views across the West Dorset countryside that families will enjoy. The upland ridges throughout the area generally offer long-distance vistas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Toller Porcorum?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the tranquility of the river valleys, the historical elements like Iron Age hillforts, and the well-preserved landscapes that make for a truly immersive outdoor experience.
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