One very steep hill, plenty of fresh air and views that make the climb totally worth it!
There are some places in Dorset that remind you just how lucky we are to live here, and Golden Cap is definitely one of them.
Sitting on the Jurassic Coast between Bridport and Charmouth, Golden Cap rises to 191 metres and is the highest point on the south coast of Great Britain. It’s a proper Dorset landmark and, being part of the South West Coast Path, it’s somewhere I’ve been meaning to tick off my walking list for a while. And yes… it is a steep one!
But that’s the great thing about living in Dorset – we’re surrounded by incredible coastline, countryside and walks, with the National Trust helping to keep so many of these places accessible for us to enjoy.
The Golden Cap Walk
Starting point: Seatown Car Park
Distance: 2.37 miles
Ascent: 679 ft
Difficulty: Difficult
- Start at Seatown Car Park and head up the road just past the caravan park and cottages. On the left you’ll find the sign joining the South West Coast Path – follow the signs for Golden Cap.
- You’ll then walk through the copse to the first kissing gate and across the field. From here, head up the steps through the heathland on the seaward side.
- Keep following the South West Coast Path signs for Golden Cap, passing through another kissing gate and across the next field.
- Then comes the bit you’ll probably remember… the steep climb!
- Head up the incline, through the kissing gate at the top and follow the zig-zag steps towards the summit.
- Once you reach the top, stop. Catch your breath. Take in the views. And give yourself a little pat on the back because you actually made it!
- Then it’s back the way you came, with the perfect opportunity to head to The Anchor Inn in Seatown for a very well-deserved drink afterwards.
Was it worth the climb?
Absolutely! This was a section of the South West Coast Path I’d never walked before, so I was really pleased to finally tick it off the list. I’ll be honest – it was difficult, and I’m definitely not as fit as I used to be, but making it to the top made every bit of that steep climb worthwhile. Even though the day was misty, the views were still breath-taking. Golden Cap is one of those places where you can really appreciate both the Dorset coastline and the countryside surrounding it.
So, if you’re looking for a Dorset walk that will give your legs a bit of a workout and reward you with some seriously beautiful scenery, Golden Cap is one to add to the list.
Just remember to bring sensible shoes, plenty of water and maybe leave a little energy for that drink at the end…
