Walking Holidays in Dorset

Start locally around the harbour

You do not need a long drive for every walking day. Explore Old Town and Poole Quay, or consult the tourism guide for the Quay-to-Whitecliff route. Check the distance, surface and return plan for your group. The house itself has several flights of stairs, which is a separate consideration from how manageable a local walking route may be.

Make Purbeck a planned day trip

For Studland, Old Harry Rocks or other Purbeck walks, plan transport out of Poole and back. The Sandbanks Ferry is one possible crossing, subject to its service and queues. Use published route descriptions and maps, check weather and path conditions and choose a route within everyone’s ability. The Mariners is not positioned directly on every Dorset trail.

A comfortable evening after the walk

Cook together, put your feet up in either lounge or choose dinner nearby in Old Town. Bring suitable footwear and discuss muddy equipment or drying needs before booking; a dedicated boot room is not included. One dog may join by prior agreement, with an additional fee and rules that apply throughout the stay.

Know the details before you book.

The Mariners is at 24 Market Street, Poole Old Town. Standard beds are two superkings, a double and a bunk bed across four bedrooms. Requests for alternative sleeping arrangements must be agreed in advance and never increase the eight-guest maximum.

Whole-house rates start from £275 per night September–April and £385 per night May–August. July–August Friday and Saturday nights are £595; Christmas, New Year, Easter and bank holidays are quoted separately. Cleaning and laundry are £160 per booking. One dog may stay by prior agreement for £30. Ask about discounts for stays of more than seven nights.

The booking deposit is 25%, with the balance due six weeks before arrival, or full payment for bookings made within six weeks. A separate £300 refundable damage deposit applies. Your full quote, dates, any additional services and cancellation terms must be agreed before payment. An enquiry does not secure dates.

Check-in is from 3pm and checkout by 10am. The house has stairs, one parking space on request and a central location that can be lively. Parties and events are not permitted.