5 Cosy Winter Walks Near Bournemouth

From The NICI: 10–15 minutes on foot

Walk length: 30–45 minutes one way

Our ultimate “let’s go for a walk” walk! Simple, straightforward, and practically on The NICI’s doorstep. After a relaxed stroll down to Bournemouth Beach, follow the stretch towards Alum Chine.

At this time of year, the promenade feels wonderfully spacious. The soft pastels of the beach huts look lovely against the winter skies, while the sea takes on a gentle air that feels worlds away from summer’s hustle and bustle.

The best part of this walk is the sense of openness. It’s long enough to help you shake off the last of the festivities but short enough that you can do it without turning it into a day’s expedition. It’s perfect for those who want to wander slowly, talk, take scenic photos, or simply enjoy the kind of tranquil silence you only get by the sea in winter.

Remember to bring a warm drink in your thermos flask. Nothing makes winter walking quite as cosy as sipping your favourite hot chocolate while the waves roll in. If you want to make it a slightly longer outing, continue all the way to the gardens at Alum Chine, which feel surprisingly still even in the colder months.

From The NICI: Walkable as an extension via Alum Chine

Walk length: Around 1 hour one way

If you’re in the mood to climb a little higher and gain some rewarding views, the Branksome Dene cliff path is calling. From Alum Chine, the gentle ascent will take you up onto a rugged strip of clifftop where the coastline expands into a long, sweeping panorama.

In January, there will be fewer people on the trail, so you can stop to marvel in the scenery without feeling like you’re blocking the way for everyday joggers, dog walkers, or large groups meandering along the way.

Once you reach the top of the cliff, take a moment to breathe in the cool air and view the curve of Poole Bay that lengthens towards the Isle of Purbeck. The clifftop feels refreshingly wild at this time of year, which is perfect for anyone who loves the thrill of an open, blustery landscape! Just expect a bit of mud in wetter weeks and wear sturdy footwear.

This walk has that lovely balance of effort and reward: enough elevation to feel like you’re exploring, but not so much that you’ll need a recovery nap afterwards (unless you just want one, in which case The NICI’s plush bedding awaits)!

From The NICI: 20–25 minutes on foot to Boscombe Pier

Walk length: Around 1 hour one way

While Bournemouth Beach is the classic coastline just a short walk from The NICI, the stretch from Boscombe to Southbourne is its quietly cool sibling. Start at Boscombe Pier and wander along an open piece of coastline that often feels almost completely yours in winter.

Southbourne Beach is known for being a little calmer than central Bournemouth even in summer, so by January it becomes a genuine haven of tranquillity. The sands stretch long and uninterrupted, while the sound of lapping waves becomes a rhythmic backdrop for contemplation. You may even spot a few surfers braving the winter swell in the distance.

This is a great walk if you’re after a “space to think.” The horizon becomes wider, the sounds softer, and everything feels quietly reassuring. It’s a lovely route for those who want to chat, reflect on the year ahead, or simply walk side by side and dodge the crowds. Bring your thermos, find a bench, and sit together by the sea.

From The NICI: 15 minutes by car (30 minutes by bus)

Walk length: 1.5–2 hours

If you’re ready for a walk that feels like a proper winter’s day adventure, head for the magnificent Hengistbury Head. Steeped in history, wildlife and sweeping coastal views, in winter, the area feels wonderfully wild and cinematic.

Throughout this clifftop loop, venture over gently rolling paths with sights across Christchurch Harbour, Mudeford Spit, and the Isle of Wight on clear days. The air up here is fresher, sharper and instantly energising, resulting in lively conversations that bring people together.

Note that as this walk is more open and exposed, Hengistbury can feel breezier than the seafront, so bring a woolly hat and a pair of warming gloves. The loop is long enough to feel immersive but still gentle enough for most walkers. If you’re a wildlife lover, keep an eye out: winter birds often make appearances around the marshes and reed beds too.

On the car ride (or bus journey) back, The NICI feels like a cosy transition from rugged nature to cosy comfort. It’s exactly the kind of walk that makes the spa back at the hotel feel extra inviting.

From The NICI: 10 minutes by car (20–25 minutes by bus)

Walk length: 45 minutes to 1 hour one way

Possibly the most sophisticated of Bournemouth’s winter walks, the Sandbanks to Canford Cliffs route glides along the exquisite Sandbanks peninsula and into Canford Cliffs. It’s a neighbourhood that brings together quiet luxury with a beautifully relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Start your day at Sandbanks, a short 10 minute drive from The NICI. Here, you’ll find that the promenade is wide, clean and wonderfully peaceful. Without the crowds, you can really appreciate the soft sands, shimmering water and the occasional luxury home peeking through the trees. As you wander toward Canford Cliffs, admire the sea views, especially when the winter sun casts a cool silver sheen over the water.

This walk is a perfect afternoon stroll before heading back to The NICI for something warm and indulgent. Just be mindful of the shaded stretches throughout this venture, as they sometimes feature icy patches after a cold winter night.

Winter coastal walks are beautiful, but they’re undeniably chilly. Bring (and wear) lots of layers, and then bring a few more. A warm coat, scarf, gloves and waterproof boots will keep you happy even when the elements are not in your favour. A hot thermos of tea, coffee or hot chocolate is practically a requirement, not a suggestion! Don’t forget your phone or camera – winter light has a photographic quality you won’t want to miss.

After a day wandering through some of the most peaceful coastal scenery, returning to The NICI feels like stepping into a warm embrace. Sink into our heated pool, book a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, or settle into a comfortable corner of South Beach restaurant with something delicious and comforting. From hearty breakfasts and ocean-inspired dishes to themed weekday favourites, including our iconic Lobster Fridays and indulgent Sunday Roasts, there is truly something for everyone.  You can even enjoy a decadent afternoon tea and clink glasses by the sea.

With its relaxed luxury and unbeatable location, The NICI is the perfect winter retreat for those wanting to reconnect, recharge and embrace the quiet beauty of the season.

Whether you squeeze all five walks into your stay or simply enjoy one perfect afternoon beside the ocean, Bournemouth offers a coastal escape that’s well worth the wait!