Set within England's only natural World Heritage Site, Golden Cap is the highest point on the south coast of England at a towering 626ft (191m). It gets its colour (and name) from minerals in the rock that glisten a rusty gold in the sunlight.
Golden Cap is a picturesque hill located within 96 miles of the Jurassic Coast and is owned by the National Trust. This scenic hill is a popular destination throughout the year, but it's particularly attractive during the summer months when visitors can take advantage of its many outdoor activities and breathtaking views.
If you're planning a visit to the Golden Cap, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do. At its base, it is exceptionally good for fossil hunting, especially for ammonites and belemnites. You can also explore the area with some fantastic hikes, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the fresh air. Here are some of our favourite things to do and see around the Golden Cap.
Golden Cap Walks
There are several hiking trails to Golden Cap, depending on how energetic you feel. Here are our favourites, easy to moderate walks for you to enjoy during your holiday park stay at Newlands.
Stonebarrow to Golden Cap
This Stonebarow to Golden Cap trail is favourable to many families and walkers. From Newlands, you can either walk or drive up Stonebarrow Lane. This is accessed via the small Stonebarrow lane which runs up the side of part of Newlands Holiday Park and can be accessed via a gate onsite. Here you are on top of a neighbouring hill with fantastic sea views. To reach Golden Cap you head downhill then up to the summit.
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Medium
Langdon Woods to The Anchor in Seatown
Langdon Wood and Golden Cap are both managed by the National Trust. Langdon Wood is easily accessed from the A35 between the villages of Chideock and Morcombelake. The wood is well signposted from the main road.
From the Car park, you basically follow the eastern and southern edges of the wood until you see the footpath sign for the golden cap. You then need to follow the path out of the wood and walk in a southwesterly direction through a couple of fields before reaching the bottom of a golden cap. The well-maintained path to the top of Golden cap zig-zags its way up and may be slippery when wet. The top of the Golden cap is marked by a triangulation point. From the summit, you can follow the path into Seatown where there is a fantastic pub and of course a beautiful beach.
For a shorter walk, you could just walk around the perimeter track that runs around Langdon wood.
Distance: 7 miles
Difficulty: Medium
Langdon Woods
Distance: 2 miles
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
A circular woodland walks through Scots pine and larch with spectacular views and year-round wildlife highlights. In spring and summer, Langdon Hill is awash with flowers including bluebells and foxgloves. In autumn, take a look at the weird and wonderful fungi that pop up around the woods. Langdon Wood is easily accessed from the A35 between the villages of Chideock and Morcombelake. The wood is well signposted from the main road. From the car park, you can follow this circular walk in either direction catching a glimpse of Golden Cap and the sea on your way round. Although it is tracked some buggies can cope well as can toddlers exploring.
Julia Bradbury visits Golden Cap
If you are a fan of Julia Bradbury you will have watched her TV series on her favourite walks with a view. One of her first outings was Golden Cap. Take a look at her Dorset overview and get excited about your visit.
Things to see and do around Golden Cap
The area around Golden Cap is full of things to keep the family busy. There are lots to do and see at Golden Cap Charmouth Heritage Centre.
Fossil Hunting
Without doubt, this is the most popular activity in Charmouth. People come from all around the world to visit this World Heritage site and discover hidden treasures. You don’t need a hammer just a little patience.
Charmouth Heritage Centre hosts guided walks throughout the year & has a fantastic short film in their little onsite theatre providing tips & advice. This is especially good if they are not running a walk or the walks are full up when you visit.
Shute Barton
Only 14 minutes drive from Charmouth you have Shute Barton.
Recognised as an important non-fortified manor house from the Middle Ages. This medieval house is owned by the National Trust and open for guided tours. Check their website for dates and times.
Best places to eat near Golden Cap
If you fancy a venture out or change from Newlands Own onsite Tow Bar & Restaurant, try one of these…
Seaton's Anchor Inn
The Anchor Inn is Seaton is an award-winning pub set at the base of Golden Cap. If you like good food, great views and real-ale you won’t be disappointed.
Oyster & Fish House
If you love fish, then look no then The Oyster & Fish House. Mark Hix is a local with a wealth of culinary experience particularly in all things from the sea. Nestled in the high foothills of Lyme Regis, the Hix has unparalleled views of Lyme Bay and the Cobb. Despite the celebrity status of the Chef, the setting is informal.
River Cottage HQ
If you're planning to visit Golden Cap and are looking for a place to eat, we highly recommend checking out River Cottage Famous Farmhouse. This restaurant has been featured on Channel 4 and offer delicious food with a unique and authentic atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty meal or just a quick bite, these eateries are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Useful Links
National Trust
The AA.com
Charmouth Heritage Centre
Is Golden Cap dog-friendly?
Golden Cap is a great place to bring the dog. They are permitted and will be welcome, as long as you are responsible. Expect to find livestock, plenty of wildlife and other walkers with their dogs.
Here are some top tips to get the most out of your dog-friendly walk to the Golden Cap.
- Golden Cap hugs the coastline with areas of eroding cliff edges. Keep yours away from the edges and in sight.
- Summer can be hot and sea breezes make you think it is cooler than it is. It’s important to keep your dog well-watered.
- Expect some livestock along the way. Keep your dog under control and use a lead if necessary.
- Bag it and bin it. No one wants to come across a dog mess.
"Wonderful Stay"
Trip Advisor Review:
We just had a lovely week at this site. It is in a beautiful location just a short walk from a gorgeous beach. There was a lovely restaurant/ bar on site and everywhere was kept immaculate. We found the staff friendly, welcoming and very helpful at all times. Charmouth is a charming place with some great little shops, a pub, and a wonderful fish & chip restaurant.
We would thoroughly recommend Newlands. 5 Stars - Oct 2020
...At the beach there is the Fossil heritage centre which also has activities for kids and fossil rock pool hunt guided walks. Or walking out the top of the site away from the village a short hike up the hill takes you to the National trust Stonebarrow site with breathtaking views of the Golden Cap Estate.
5 stars – Tripadvisor