Women-only NYD walk + swim | Studland + Old Harry Rocks | DORSET

Route Overview

• Starting Point: Knoll Beach Cafe, Studland

• Distance: 16km / 10 miles

• Time: ~6 hours (inc stops)

• Ascent: 264m

• Grade: Intermediate (Find out more about our grading system here)

• Terrain: Sand dunes, boggy ground, heathland, gravel tracks, muddy footpaths, country lanes, exposed cliff edges

Start your year with adventure, fresh air, and good company! Join The Adventure Girls Club for a beautiful New Year’s Day group hike along Dorset’s stunning coastline.

We’ll set off from Knoll Beach, winding through the wild sand dunes and the serene wetlands of Little Sea in Studland Heath. From there, we’ll climb up to Agglestone Rock, a mysterious sandstone pillar steeped in local legend, before continuing along the rolling chalk hills of Ballard Down.

Our route takes us past the iconic Old Harry Rocks, where we’ll pause to take in the dramatic sea cliffs and panoramic views across the Isle of Wight, before looping back along the golden sands of Studland Beach.

We’ll finish the day with an optional refreshing sea dip – the perfect way to welcome a new year of adventure, courage, and connection.

Getting There

By Car: There is a spacious National Trust car park at Knoll Beach, which is free for NT members (charges apply otherwise). The Cafe where we'll meet is just towards the beach, right next to the car park. Please make sure you go to the correct car park, as there are a few along the strip of coastline.

By Public Transport: Unfortunately, this walk is only accessible by car, but please utilise the liftshare WhatsApp group below - most people are happy to give lifts!

Liftshare: If you need or can offer a lift, please post in the Lift Share WhatsApp Group.

What to Bring

• Hiking boots

• Plenty of snacks and a packed lunch

• At least 1 litre of water

• A flask of hot drink

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Small first aid kit with personal medication

• A day rucksack for your essentials

• Swimsuit / towel / gloves / booties can be left in your car for the end of the hike

Who will be your guide?

Hi, I’m Alice! I’m a Qualified Mountain Leader and CEO of The Adventure Girls Club. I founded this club to create a welcoming space for women to reconnect with nature through adventure and outdoor skills. I love meeting the amazing women who join our events, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see participants leave feeling more connected to nature and to one another.

What to expect on a TAGC hike

• A qualified hike leader to lead the way and keep you safe

• A slow walking pace where no one gets left behind

• A welcoming and friendly group of like-minded women

• Plenty of facts about the nature and history of the walk

• Lots of 'faff' stops to drink water, snack and de-layer and re-layer

• A relaxing lunch/dinner break (if the weather allows!)

• A link to share photos after the hike

Who can join?

Our events are for cis-women, trans-women and non-binary people who feel safer in women-only spaces.

Club Membership

Non-members are welcome at all our events. We also offer a club membership, which provides free or discounted access to events, a community WhatsApp group, and route cards and resources via our online platform. You can find out more about the club membership here.

Safety & Participation

Our hikes are designed to be enjoyable and relaxed – it’s about experiencing nature, not rushing! However, you are responsible for your own health and safety. If you're unsure about your fitness level, consult your doctor or reach out if you have any concerns.

I am a Qualified Mountain Leader and Level 3 Outdoor First Aid trained, so I’ll be available in case of emergencies.

Consent Form

All participants must complete a consent form before joining the hike. Forms must be submitted the night before the event. A reminder will be sent two days before.

Fill out the form here.

Toilets

There are toilets at the start of the walk, but apart from that, be prepared for a ‘wild wee’ if needed—just let someone in the group know and find a private spot.

Dogs

Well-behaved dogs are welcome! However, I can't guarantee that all styles are dog-friendly, so be prepared to carry your dog over a style if necessary. Dogs must be kept on leads around livestock or wildlife, and the guide has the right to enforce this. If bringing a dog, please post in our Dog Chat WhatsApp Group to let other dog owners know.

Refund Policy

Refunds are only available if the event is cancelled. If you can no longer attend, you may sell your ticket to someone else using the Tickets for Sale/Swap WhatsApp Group

If you are a Dedicated Member, please cancel your space if you can no longer make it.

Terms & Conditions

By signing up for this event, you agree to our Terms & Conditions. Please note this event is for over-18s only.