Field Trip: Guided Walk – Saturday 16 May 2026: Golden Cap and Hardown Hill, Dorset

Dorset Geologists’ Association Group (DGAG) will host a Guided Walk on the Saturday 16 May 2026 to Golden Cap and Hardown Hill, Dorset.
Title: A guided walk – Golden Cap, St Gabriel’s and Hardown Hill
Leader:  Richard Barrett
Time: 10:30 am start – 2:30 pm finish approx
Meet Location: Langdon Hill National Trust Car Park. DT6 6EP
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Nearest toilets: none
Car Parks: Langdon Hill National Trust Car Park (see above)
Entry Cost: Fieldtrip free to DGAG members. Parking fee applies if not a National Trust member
Booking: to register your interest, email Jonathan Stiby at fieldtrips@dorsetgeologistsassociation.org

Description: This is a guided walk on the coastal and inland paths of West Dorset. It will introduce the local geology setting of the walk before ascending Golden Cap.
On Golden Cap, we’ll enjoy the extensive views from the highest point on the south coast of England, before descending to St Gabriel’s and its disused chapel.  From there we will walk on paths to the village of Morcombelake before ascending Hardown Hill and visiting its chert quarry – a DIGS site.  We will enjoy the views over Marshwood Vale from Hardown before making our return to the car park. We will view various points of geological, geographical and archaeological interest enroute.  Many of the buildings we will pass are built of local stone. Total distance: 8km (5 miles).
Please note: the walk is on marked footpaths and lanes and has some steep ascents and descents.  The paths may be slippery after wet weather.  Suitable for reasonably fit people with experience of country walking.  Walking boots or robust shoes required.  Bring walking poles if appropriate.
Bring Packed lunch. No dogs please.
Photo: Provisional courtesy Jonathan Stiby