4.6
(1081)
7,813
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Burton Bradstock offers access to the dramatic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is characterized by distinctive sandstone cliffs, pebble beaches, and coastal paths that provide expansive views over Lyme Bay. Notable features include the 626-foot (191-meter) Golden Cap hill, the highest point on the South Coast, and the start of the 17-mile-long Chesil Beach. The area's geology is rich with fossil-bearing formations, making it a significant location for natural exploration.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
4.8
(4)
48
hikers
7.40km
01:58
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(19)
87
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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37
hikers
4.51km
01:11
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
44
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The coast path between West Bay and Burton Bradstock is currently closed due to a landslip. A diversion is in place using the public footpath across Bridport and West Dorset Golf Club. Please see the South West Coast Path website for further info and a map of the diversion.
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Location: It is situated about 2.5 miles (4 km) west of West Bay, between the villages of Eype and Seatown. Height: Its elevation is about 157 metres (515 ft) high, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline, including West Bay to the east and the towering Golden Cap to the west. History: Its name comes from its use as one of a chain of beacon sites along the south coast of England, historically used to light fires to provide an early warning of invasion, most famously against the Spanish Armada in 1588.
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Beautiful views are always guaranteed, regardless of the what the weather holds.
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Corporal Neil Martin Blain, S.B.S. (Special Boat Service, Royal Marines), died on June 21, 1994, at the age of 31. He was killed in the USA in a H.A.A.L.O. (High Altitude, Low Opening) parachuting accident. Corporal Blain is remembered as a person who epitomised the Commando spirit. A memorial bench dedicated to him is located at West Bexington, Dorset, the traditional halfway stopover for the challenging Lympstone to Poole race, a race he was known to love.
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Burton Bradstock (Hive Beach), Dorset, UK This is the most famous "Burton" beach in the UK, located on the beautiful Jurassic Coast in Dorset. Location: Near the village of Burton Bradstock, on the coast of West Dorset, England. Features: It's a picturesque, steeply shelving shingle beach backed by stunning golden sandstone cliffs. Geology: The beach and its cliffs are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast, famous for its geology and fossil-rich Bridport Sands. Facilities & Activities: It is home to the very popular Hive Beach Café. The beach is a gateway to the South West Coast Path, offering spectacular cliff-top walks. Swimming is popular, but caution is advised due to the steep shelf and strong currents (it is not an RNLI lifeguarded beach). It's a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts, with a variety of coastal wildlife.
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Very nice restaurant there, easy to get to.
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St. Catherine's Chapel in Abbotsbury is an enchanting place steeped in history and atmosphere. Perched on a hill, the small chapel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the sea. Its tranquil and spiritual atmosphere makes it a perfect place for a contemplative stroll or a short break from everyday life. Its historical significance and picturesque location make St. Catherine's Chapel a must-see for visitors who want to discover the beauty and history of the region.
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There are over 20 hiking trails around Burton Bradstock that are easily accessible from local bus stations. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including 11 easy, 7 moderate, and 2 difficult options.
Yes, several easy and family-friendly walks start directly from bus stops. A great option is the Thorncombe Beacon – Hive Beach Café loop from Burton Bradstock, which is just over 4.5 km long and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. It offers gentle terrain and leads to the popular Hive Beach.
Absolutely. For a more challenging experience, consider the Chesil Beach & The Fleet – Burton Bradstock Coastal Path loop from Burton Bradstock. This difficult route spans over 22 km and takes around 5 hours and 50 minutes, offering extensive coastal views and a good workout.
Many of the trails are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For instance, the West Bay Cliffs – West Bay Harbour loop from Burton Bradstock is an easy 7.4 km circular hike that takes you along the stunning Jurassic Coast cliffs and into West Bay.
The trails offer access to the dramatic landscapes of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore iconic sandstone cliffs, the start of Chesil Beach & The Fleet, and stunning viewpoints. Highlights include the impressive West Bay Cliffs and the distant views from Thorncombe Beacon.
Yes, many trails in the Burton Bradstock area are dog-friendly, especially those along the South West Coast Path. However, always keep dogs under close control, particularly near cliff edges, livestock, and during nesting seasons. Some beaches may have seasonal restrictions for dogs, so it's advisable to check local signage.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking coastal views, the unique geological formations, and the accessibility of the trails from public transport.
Burton Bradstock is perfectly situated for coastal walks with spectacular views. The Hive Beach Café – Burton Bradstock Coastal Path loop from Burton Bradstock is a moderate 11.8 km route that offers stunning vistas across Lyme Bay and along the distinctive golden cliffs.
Hive Beach, a popular spot accessible from several routes, features the Hive Beach Café, known for its fresh seafood and local produce. West Bay, also reachable by foot, offers various pubs and eateries. The village of Burton Bradstock itself has local pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after your hike.
Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for hiking in Burton Bradstock, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Wildflowers bloom in spring, and the autumn colours can be beautiful. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier, and it's essential to be prepared for sun exposure on the open coastal paths. Winter walks can be invigorating, but check weather conditions as coastal paths can be exposed and muddy.
Yes, if you're looking for a shorter outing, the Mill Street, Burton Bradstock – Mill Leat loop from Burton Bradstock is an easy 6.5 km route that takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. It offers a pleasant walk through the village and surrounding countryside.
While the area is known for its beautiful coastline, wild swimming opportunities directly from bus-accessible trails are limited and depend on local conditions. Hive Beach is popular for beach activities, but always exercise caution and check local safety advice regarding currents and tides before entering the water. The sea here can be exposed.


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