Stage Overview
- Distance: 8.1 miles / 13 km
- Time: 4h 05m
- Ascent: 516 m
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Terrain: Steep cliff paths, narrow coastal tracks, frequent ascents and descents
- Navigation: Moderate (well signposted but physically demanding terrain)
- Start: Cobb Gate (Millenium Clock), Marine Parade, Lyme Regis, DT7 3QD, Google map
- Finish: The Anchor Inn, Seatown, Bridport DT6 6JU Google map
- Highlights: Golden Cap, high cliff sections, expansive coastal views
Route Summary
This stage leaves Lyme Regis and quickly climbs onto the cliffs, beginning a series of steep ascents and descents along one of the most rugged sections of the Jurassic Coast. The route follows narrow coastal paths with sustained elevation change, passing beneath and over prominent headlands before reaching Golden Cap. After the highest point on the south coast, the path descends towards Seatown, finishing at the beach below the cliffs.
Elevation & Difficulty
With approximately 516 metres of ascent over a relatively short distance, this is a demanding stage. The difficulty comes from repeated steep climbs rather than a single ascent, with little flat ground in between. The ascent to Golden Cap is a defining feature and contributes significantly to the overall effort. This stage is comparable in difficulty to Sidmouth → Beer and requires a good level of fitness.
Highlights Along the Route
- Lyme Regis Harbour (The Cobb) – Historic starting point of the stage.
- Cliff-top Walking – Continuous elevated sections with wide coastal views.
- Golden Cap – Highest point on the south coast at 191 metres, offering extensive views.
- Rugged Coastline – One of the most dramatic and varied sections of the route.
- Seatown Beach – Small coastal settlement beneath the cliffs marking the end of the stage.
Practical Information
- Parking (Lyme Regis): Several car parks available, though often busy.
- Parking (Seatown): Limited parking near the beach.
- Public Transport: No buses directly between Lyme Regis and Seatown. The nearest bus stop to Seatown is Chideok Bridge which is a 20 min walk to Seatown Beach (Anchor Inn)
First Bus X51 Jurassic Coaster Weymouth – Dorchester – Bridport – Chideok (Bridge) – Charmouth -Lyme Regis – Axminster
First Bus X53 Jurassic Coaster Weymouth – Abbotsbury – Burton Bradstock – West Bay – Bridport – Chideok (Bridge) – Charmouth – Lyme Regis – Axminster - Toilets: Available in Lyme Regis and limited facilities near Seatown.
- Food & Drink: Good options in Lyme Regis; limited options at Seatown.
- Water: No reliable refill points along the route — carry sufficient water.
Navigation Notes
The route is signposted as part of the South West Coast Path. Navigation is generally straightforward, but attention is required on steeper sections where paths may narrow or split slightly. The approach to Golden Cap is clearly marked. There are no major diversions under normal conditions.
Safety Notes
This stage includes steep climbs and descents, exposed cliff edges, and uneven ground. Extra care is required in wet or windy conditions, as paths can become slippery. The sustained elevation gain makes this a physically demanding walk. There are no tide-dependent sections, but conditions underfoot can vary.
Suggested Walking Strategy
This is best approached as a full-day walk due to the sustained effort required. An early start is recommended, particularly in warm conditions. The stage has limited opportunities to shorten the walk once committed, so planning ahead is important. Walking from Lyme Regis to Seatown allows the ascent to Golden Cap to be completed before the final descent.
Map & GPX
- View full route on Outdooractive
- Download GPX file
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Continue to: Seatown → Abbotsbury