Newton's Cove to Nothe Gardens Walk, Weymouth - Best Coastal Walk with Harbour Views
The Newton's Cove to Nothe Gardens walk in Weymouth is one of the best short coastal walks in Dorset. This easy and scenic route offers incredible views across Weymouth Harbour, Nothe Fort, Portland Harbour, and the famous Weymouth beach.
If you're searching for things to do in Weymouth, coastal walks in Weymouth, or the best viewpoints in Weymouth, this walk should be at the top of your list.
Despite being a relatively short walk, it packs in some of the most impressive scenery in the area, making it perfect for families, photographers, and anyone wanting to explore Weymouth's coastline.
Newton's Cove Weymouth - A Hidden Gem
Newton's Cove is one of the most peaceful spots in Weymouth, located just beyond the harbour. Unlike the main beach, it offers a quieter and more natural coastal setting.
The rocky shoreline and clear water make it ideal for rock pooling and spotting marine wildlife, especially during low tide. You'll often find crabs, small fish, and seabirds in the area.
From the cove, you can see the Portland Breakwater, a vast structure built in the 19th century to protect naval ships. This highlights the strong military and maritime history of Weymouth and Portland Harbour.
Walking from Newton's Cove to Nothe Gardens
The walk from Newton's Cove to Nothe Gardens is short, easy, and well worth the effort. The path gradually rises, revealing increasingly impressive views across Weymouth Harbour and the coastline.
Nothe Fort Weymouth - Historic Coastal Defence
Overlooking the walk is Nothe Fort, a key part of Weymouth's history. Built in the late 1800s, it was designed to defend Portland Harbour, one of the most important naval bases in the UK.
The fort played an important role during both World Wars and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in Weymouth today.
Nothe Gardens Weymouth - One of the Best Viewpoints
Nothe Gardens is widely regarded as one of the best viewpoints in Weymouth.
From here, you'll enjoy panoramic views across Weymouth Bay, the harbour, and out towards Portland.
Weymouth Harbour Views and the Spanish Steps
As you explore further, you'll come across the well-known �Spanish Steps�, a popular photo spot offering elevated views over the harbour and sea.
One of the highlights of the walk is the view across Weymouth Harbour. From Nothe Gardens, you can watch boats entering and leaving the harbour while enjoying one of the best views in town.
If you love the harbour views from this walk, you can capture the same scene at home with this detailed print:
If you enjoyed the harbour views on this walk, you can see a high-quality print of Weymouth Harbour at sunset here: View Weymouth Harbour print .
Frequently Asked Questions � Newton�s Cove & Nothe Gardens Walk
How Long is the Newton's Cove to Nothe Gardens Walk?
This short coastal walk typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes. However, most visitors spend longer exploring the Nothe Gardens, enjoying the views, or stopping along the route for photos and wildlife spotting.
Is This One of the Best Walks in Weymouth for Families?
Yes, this is one of the best family-friendly walks in Weymouth. The route is short, easy to follow, and has plenty of open space in the Nothe Gardens, including a small play area, making it ideal for children of all ages.
Where to Park for Newton's Cove and Nothe Gardens?
Parking is available nearby, including street parking and car parks within walking distance. During busy summer periods, it�s best to arrive early to secure a convenient spot close to the start of the walk.
Best Time to Visit This Weymouth Coastal Walk?
The walk can be enjoyed all year round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for clear views and comfortable walking. Early mornings and evenings are particularly popular for their quieter atmosphere and excellent lighting.
Newtons Cove and the Nothe Gardens: A Peaceful Coastal Escape in Weymouth
Newtons Cove is a charming, secluded cove in Weymouth, offering spectacular views across Portland Harbour, the Portland Breakwater, and the iconic Isle of Portland. Unlike the busy main Weymouth beach, Newtons Cove provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Dorset coastline.
The cove is ideal for leisurely walks along the coastline. Its rockpools are teeming with wildlife, providing an engaging experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts. The nearby Nothe Gardens run alongside the cove and are a serene oasis with beautifully landscaped paths and grassy areas perfect for a picnic or relaxing in the sun.
Walking the Newtons Cove & Nothe Gardens Trail
The walk along Newtons Cove offers stunning coastal views before winding into the Nothe Gardens. This scenic route skirts the edge of the historic Nothe Fort, combining natural beauty with a touch of history.
- A quiet stroll along the shingle beach and coastline of Newtons Cove
- Exploring rockpools filled with crabs, starfish, and other marine life
- Walking through Nothe Gardens with its colourful flower displays, mature trees, and peaceful paths
- Climbing steps to viewpoints around Nothe Fort for panoramic harbour views
- Extending the walk to Weymouth Harbour or along the stone pier for more coastal scenery
The Nothe Gardens Today
Standing in the Nothe Gardens today, it's easy to forget that this area was once closely linked to the bustling activity of the Nothe Fort. Watching squirrels dart among the trees and birds flit through the garden, you can feel the peace and quiet settle over the space.
In the Victorian era, these gardens were originally designed as ornamental and recreational grounds for the fort's officers and local residents. During Ministry of Defence times, much of the area remained functional, supporting the fort with training grounds, storage, and access paths, while still offering pockets of greenery for soldiers and their families. Today, the gardens preserve that sense of calm, offering visitors a rare chance to connect with both nature and history.
Why Visit Newtons Cove and Nothe Gardens?
Unlike the busy Weymouth beach, this area offers peace and quiet, wildlife encounters, and stunning coastal views. Visitors can explore rockpools full of marine life, take photographs of dramatic coastal scenery, or simply sit in the Nothe Gardens and enjoy the tranquility. The nearby historic Nothe Fort adds an educational and historical dimension, creating a visit that is both scenic and culturally rich.
Whether you are planning a short walk, a picnic, or a full day exploring the fort and harbour area, Newtons Cove and Nothe Gardens are a must-visit when exploring Weymouth and the Dorset coast.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the rocky cove and garden paths
- Check the tide if you plan to explore rockpools
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or on the shingle beach
- Photography enthusiasts should visit at sunrise or sunset for dramatic coastal views
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Nothe Fort for a complete historical and scenic experience
Updated: 2026
