Golden Cap

The golden sandstone cliffs at Golden Cap rise 626 feet above the Dorset coast, making them the highest point on the south coast between here and the Isle of Wight. The National Trust owns the whole headland, and it's genuinely worth the walk up from the beach car park near Bridport.

The path climbs steeply through woodland before breaking out onto open grassland with absolutely stunning views across Lyme Bay and towards the Jurassic Coast. On a clear day you can see Portland Bill in the distance. The summit itself is modest - just a flat grassy top - but the 360-degree vistas make the huffing climb entirely worthwhile. It takes about forty minutes up from the car park, depending on fitness, so allow an hour and a half for the round trip.

History buffs will appreciate that Golden Cap marks the boundary between the Bridport and Axminster sandstone formations, visible in the cliff face itself. The geology here draws proper attention - those russet and gold bands of stone are spectacular in afternoon light.

Families should know the path gets muddy after rain and can be slippery on the descent. Older kids handle it fine; very young ones might struggle. It's free to visit and you can stay as long as you like on the summit.

If you're camped at Golden Cap Holiday Park or Newlands Holiday Park - both within walking distance - this is an obvious day out. Even from the more distant holiday parks like Parkdean Resorts West Bay, it's a short drive and worth squeezing in between beach days.