Burton Bradstock

From a golden shingle corner of Chesil Beach, climb up to the peak of Bind Barrow, complete with panoramic views of Lyme Bay. The empty beach and wide blue sea played a crucial role in the D-Day landings, with American troops scaling the cliffs for training and the sea turning black with boats on the day of departure. Wander inland to meet the mills that once worked the little River Bride. Climb up to St Catherine’s Cross, a crossroads of little lanes on the possible site of an old chapel, the routes later used by many a smuggler. Walk along the ridge with the sea below and hillforts above, returning via the cliff top, a boutique hotel and a musicians bolt hole.

Distance:  4.5 miles/7.5km

Duration: 2-3 hours

Ability: Easy.

Max Height: 370ft.

Min Height: 0ft.

Total climb: 595ft.

Terrain: Tracks, paths, fields, roads and a bit of Chesil Beach.

Map: OLS Explorer 15 Purbeck and South Dorset

Start Point: Hive Beach National Trust Car Park – Payment free for members. (Postcode: DT6 4RF, Grid Reference: SY491888, What Three Words: wisdom.studio.amicably).

How to Get There: From Bridport’s southern roundabout on the A35, take the coast road (Burton Road/B3157) towards Burton Bradstock. Drive through the village, over the River Bride and around a tight left hand bend. Take the next right hand turn signposted for Hive Beach. The National Trust car park is at the end of the road.

Dogs: In accordance with the Countryside Code and any notices on route. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from June to October inclusive.

Refreshments: At the start and finish of the walk is The Hive Beach Café and The Seaside Boarding House. In Burton Bradstock are The Three Horseshoes and The Anchor Inn.

Toilets: At Hive Beach and in Burton Bradstock.

Places to Stay: Seaside Boarding House, Norburton Hall Cottages, Graston Farm

Neighbouring walks: St Luke’s, West Bay, Loders, Shipton Gorge, Chilcombe and Puncknowle.