If you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities in Dorset, you won’t be disappointed. This beautiful county is nature’s playground - home to sweeping coastlines, ancient woodlands, rolling countryside and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer a slower pace surrounded by natural beauty, Dorset offers countless ways to connect with the great outdoors.
From kayaking along the striking coastline to trekking through vast heathlands or birdwatching on the iconic Brownsea Island, you're truly spoilt for choice. Every corner of Dorset invites you to step outside and explore.
Nestled in the heart of this natural wonderland is Silverlake, a luxury holiday home estate perfectly placed for enjoying outdoor activities in Dorset. Whether it's paddleboarding on the estate’s private lake, cycling through scenic trails from your doorstep, or heading further afield to explore the county’s diverse landscapes, adventure is always within easy reach.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the following outdoor activities that you can do in Dorset:
- • Swimming
- • Golf
- • Horse riding
- • Cycling
- • Kayaking
- • Hiking
- • Fishing
- • Sailing
- • Bird watching
- • Paddleboarding
- • Tennis
- • Windsurfing
Swimming in Dorset
Whether you are looking to go wild swimming in Dorset’s tranquil lakes or bracing coastal waters, or prefer to swim in an indoor or outdoor pool, you’ll find no shortage of places to take a dip in Dorset.
For guests and homeowners at Silverlake, outdoor swimming in Dorset is never far away. The estate features its own stunning infinity pool, overlooking a natural reed bed and the rolling Dorset landscape - an idyllic setting for a relaxed swim. Silverlake also offers access to multiple lakes and a private beach, making it easy to enjoy open-water swimming in a serene environment. For safety, Silverlake asks everyone to use a buoyancy aid in the lakes.
Golf in Dorset
For golf enthusiasts, there’s a fantastic selection of golf courses in Dorset. Whether you're a seasoned player or just fancy a casual round on holiday, there’s a course to suit every level.
From the historic Bridport & West Dorset Golf Club, the oldest in the county with dramatic views over the Jurassic Coast, to the prestigious Ferndown Golf Club, home to a challenging and beautifully maintained 27-hole course, Dorset is a dream for golfers.
Many of these top courses are just a short drive from Silverlake, making it an ideal base for combining luxury accommodation with your love of the game.
Horse riding in Dorset
There are few better ways to explore Dorset's landscapes than on horseback. Whether you're a beginner or experienced rider, horse riding in Dorset offers memorable experiences - from galloping along sandy beaches to scenic hacks through the countryside.
Rosewall Equestrian, located just 10 minutes from Silverlake, offers riding lessons, hacking and stunning views of the Dorset countryside.
Cycling in Dorset
Whether you're after scenic countryside rides or thrilling off-road adventures, there are fantastic cycle routes in Dorset for all abilities.
Family-friendly paths like the Rodwell Trail offer an easy ride between Weymouth and Portland. For more adventurous cyclists, mountain biking in Dorset is popular in areas like Wareham Forest and the Purbeck Hills.
Silverlake makes exploring on two wheels easy, with on-site bike rental, including electric bike hire and direct access to local trails.
Kayaking in Dorset
With miles of beautiful coastline and tranquil lakes to explore, kayaking in Dorset offers endless opportunities for adventure.
If you want to try sea kayaking in Dorset, Poole Harbour is ideal for beginners, thanks to its calm, shallow waters and beautiful surroundings. For more experienced kayakers, the areas around Lulworth Cove and Studland Bay offer stunning views and the chance to spot dolphins and seals!
Guests and homeowners at Silverlake Dorset can enjoy kayaking right on their doorstep, with watersport equipment available to hire. For something truly unique, try a Coracle Safari - a quirky and fun way to explore the estate’s lakes in traditional round boats!
Hiking in Dorset
Hiking in Dorset offers a rich variety of landscapes, including dramatic coastal routes along the Dorset Coast Path – ideal if you want to hike the Jurassic Coast. The county also offers peaceful inland trails through ancient woodland, heathland and rolling countryside. Whether you're after a short scenic stroll or a full-day trek, the county is packed with unforgettable walking routes.
Many trails pass through charming villages, offering the perfect excuse to pause at a traditional country pub or cosy tea room along the way.
For guests at Silverlake, the on-site Knighton Reserve features a tranquil 2.6km circular walk — ideal for an easy escape into nature right on your doorstep.
Fishing in Dorset
Whether you enjoy sea, lake, or river fishing, Dorset is a top destination for anglers. Try fishing in Weymouth for sea bass, mackerel, or pollock, or cast your line from piers in Swanage and Bournemouth. For freshwater enthusiasts, head to the River Frome or River Stour - both renowned for excellent trout and salmon fishing in Dorset.
Silverlake Dorset offers private fishing for carp, tench and bream in its peaceful lakes - perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Sailing in Dorset
With world-class sailing waters, sailing in Dorset is a dream for enthusiasts of all levels.
Portland Harbour - host of the sailing events during the London 2012 Olympic Games - remains a popular destination for seasoned sailors, while sailing in Poole, with its expansive natural harbour, provides ideal conditions for beginners and pros alike.
For younger sailors, there are plenty of opportunities to complete RYA (Royal Yachting Association) qualifications in just a few days. Schools like Shell Bay Sailing and Rockley offer excellent instruction in a safe, supportive environment.
Bird watching in Dorset
Dorset is a haven for bird lovers, home to species such as bearded tits, kingfishers and bitterns. Numerous RSPB reserves and wildlife hotspots are available, including the Portland Bill Bird Observatory, a great place to spot migrating species like redstarts and willow warblers.
You can also enjoy over 150 species of birds while birdwatching in Dorset at Silverlake’s nature reserve – a peaceful haven ideal for quiet observation and wildlife photography.
Paddleboarding in Dorset
With calm inland waters and a stunning coastline, paddleboarding in Dorset is ideal for all experience levels.
For those seeking adventure, explore some of the top paddleboarding spots in Dorset, such as the River Frome, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door - iconic locations that offer unforgettable views and an exhilarating paddleboarding experience. For calm, lake based paddleboarding, Silverlake’s lakes are the perfect spot for those who own or rent holiday homes at the estate.
Tennis in Dorset
There are many excellent tennis clubs in Dorset, including the prestigious East Dorset Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Poole, which boasts 19 tournament championship-standard courts and Broadstone Tennis Club, which was voted Dorset Tennis Club of the Year in 2023.
For those staying at Silverlake Dorset, there’s no need to venture far to enjoy a match. Tennis courts are available exclusively for homeowners and guests staying on the estate, offering a convenient and scenic spot to play during your stay.
Windsurfing in Dorset
Thanks to its varied coastline and reliable wind conditions, windsurfing in Dorset caters to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros, whether you’re into flat-water cruising or more challenging wave riding.
Poole Harbour and Portland Harbour offer a variety of conditions for different skill levels, from calm, shallow waters for beginners to stronger winds and waves for more experienced windsurfers.
Why Silverlake is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts
With such diverse outdoor activities in Dorset, Silverlake stands out as the ideal base for exploring it all. Guests and holiday homeowners can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, wild swimming, tennis, cycling, birdwatching and fishing without leaving the estate!
And for those eager to venture further afield, golf courses, horse-riding and sea kayaking are just a short drive away.
Looking to make the most of outdoor activities in Dorset? Explore Silverlake's luxury holiday homes for sale and turn your outdoor escapes into everyday living.
