Walking Accessibility of the Jurassic Coast

Ryan Eddowes’ Accessibility observations of the Jurassic Coast stretch of the South West Coast Path

In spring (23^rd May-3^rd June) 2022, Ryan Eddowes along with friend, Matt and dog, Taz embarked on a challenge to walk the entire 95 mile length of the Jurassic Coast, from Exmouth to Studland. The purpose of Ryan’s challenge was to raise awareness for those with lower limb conditions and other physical and hidden disabilities, including his own condition – talipes,  known as ‘clubfoot’.

Ryan successfully completed his challenge and has compiled a summary of how accessible each section of the coastal path was.

Good walking areas 

Exmouth to Sidmouth

This section was great to walk as it was really accessible, it does contain many steps which if you have a lower limb condition you need to take care as you go and take your time, but it is doable.

Lyme Regis to Bridport 

This was an excellent walk, really accessible, the Golden Cap was easier to walk due to the lower-level steps with posts to hold on to. There are also many stop-off points to get supplies.

Swanage to Studland 

This was really accessible, again not for a wheelchair though, the only section I would say is perfect for wheelchair access was from the pub to old harry rocks, as there is an accessible path. The wheelchair would need to be sturdy as the path has loose rocks on it. The walk itself is pleasant.

Kimmeridge (Worth Matravers) to Swanage 

This was particularly pleasant, this was 6.8 miles and we came across this section (pictured above). The bannisters were great to get through this section. It had steps, which made it easier, going from Kimmeridge way to the bottom of the hill. The bannisters end and as you head up the hill towards Swanage the bannister are still there at the start of the hill but not at the top, which makes accessibility a little difficult because these were the most unstable.

Also, the first lot of bannisters was wobbly, and the other side going upwards was sturdy and looked new. I think the bannisters need to run the full length of the downward and upward sections of this hill.

More difficult walking areas

Sidmouth to Beer

This section was generally suitable but the majority was challenging due to inclines and deep steps, the signage was confusing, and in areas lacked direction, there could be more sign posts to make walking easier.

Beer to Lyme Regis 

This is the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve; this is a long and quiet treacherous area to walk if you have a lower limb condition or a physical disability. There’s nothing that can be done due to being protected for nature and the environment.

Bridport to Weymouth

This was not walked due to my feet; we had a lift through this one.

Weymouth to Lulworth Cove 

This one was particularly interesting, the walk was accessible, not for wheelchair access. However, the last 3-4 miles before Lulworth Cove was very dangerous to walk, the decline was very steep and unstable, the ground was crumbling and came loose and I fell twice, just before arriving at Durdle Door. I think moving forward with this section, it would be best to have bannisters installed with steps.

Lulworth Cove to Kimmeridge (Worth Matravers) 

I was only able to complete 7 out of the 14 miles on this one, as the height of the hills was steep and tough to decent (see image below). I would not class this as accessible – even able-bodied people were struggling. It looked better after Kimmeridge bay car park, but I did not complete the walk after this due to the pain.