Newton's Cove & Nothe Gardens Walk, Weymouth - Best Short Coastal Walk with Harbour Views
The Newton's Cove & 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.
This short walk starts at Newton's Cove - just a short distance from the Brewers Quay and the carpark behind it. Newtons Cove is a rocky and shingle beach, far quieter than the town beach, the rockpools are full of wildlife. As you walk along the coastal footpath towards the Nothe Fort, there are steps down to the beach along the path. As you approach the Nothe Gardens, there can be some steep, short inclines but if in need of a break, there are plenty of benches to rest and admire the views.
Newton's Cove Weymouth - A Hidden Gem
Newton's Cove is one of the most peaceful spots in Weymouth. 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. There are a number of places down to the beach. Take Care: The sea does come right up to the wall and the rocks can be extremely slippery. Along the walk, there are information boards that show the different species you may see.
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 Weymouth and Portland Harbour as well as Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour was one of the most important naval bases in the UK and so these areas were of critical importance.
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 alongside those on offer from the Nothe Fort which is a must visit attraction.
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. These take you back down to the harbour. There are also some winding steps down to the harbour as well as the steepest set further along the harbour - these are another iconic set of steps up to the Nothe Gardens - they would historically have been used for transporting goods up the steep incline to the Nothe from the harbour. At the bottom of the Spanish steps you will come across the ferry boat that takes you from one side of the harbour to the other, a tradition that has been a feature of many generations of holidaymaker.
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.
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. Street parking, unless you get lucky, can be some distance from the gardens, there is plenty of paid parking however in the Nothe Gardens, parking here offers the ideal base for exploring Weymouth.
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.
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
Buy Weymouth Prints
If you enjoyed the pictures above, then why not take one home with you? The Weymouth prints below are available to buy in my Folksy store, simply follow the links or visit the Dorset section of my Folksy store here where you can view many more Weymouth and Dorset Prints to buy.
A Modern Day photograph of Weymouth Harbour and Town Bridge
Looking towards Weymouth Side of the Old Harbour from Melcombe Regis
Weymouth Jetty from the Nothe Gardens Digitally Derived Art Print
Weymouth Old Harbour Print
Weymouth Stone Pier Print
Weymouth Harbour Digitally Derived Art Print
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.
Looking For Another Scenic Weymouth Walk?
If you enjoy the coastal views from Newton's Cove and the Nothe Gardens, you may also love walking the Rodwell Trail.
This easy former railway walk takes you along the Weymouth side of Portland Harbour with views of Sandsfoot Castle, Castle Cove, Ferrybridge and the Portland Breakwaters.
It's one of Weymouth's best easy walks and ideal for visitors wanting more sea views and local history.
Updated: 2026
