Colmer's Hill
A distinctive 417-foot hill crowned with pine trees, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Dorset's countryside and coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Colmer's Hill
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A distinctive 417-foot hill crowned with pine trees, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Dorset's countryside and coast.
"Wow what a hill and what a climb to take in all the beauty and spectacular views from it's top across the Dorset landscape."
Wear sturdy shoes
The climb is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the climb. There are limited facilities at the top. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Dorset Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Dorset countryside and coastline, including Chesil Beach.
The Iconic Pine Trees
Summit
A distinctive cluster of nine pine trees crowns the hill, creating a memorable and photogenic landmark.
Symondsbury Estate Charm
Base of the hill
Explore the picturesque village with its chocolate-box cottages and friendly farm animals at the estate's base.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Climb
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
The climb is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the climb. There are limited facilities at the top. :water_wave:
Capture the golden hour
The views are spectacular at sunrise and sunset. Plan your visit to catch the best light. :camerawithflash:
Check the tide times
If combining with a coastal visit, be aware of tide times for nearby areas like Charmouth. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
The climb is steep and can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for a comfortable and safe hike. :athletic_shoe:
Bring water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized for the climb. There are limited facilities at the top. :water_wave:
Capture the golden hour
The views are spectacular at sunrise and sunset. Plan your visit to catch the best light. :camerawithflash:
Check the tide times
If combining with a coastal visit, be aware of tide times for nearby areas like Charmouth. :ocean:
Explore the estate
Don't miss the charming village of Symondsbury and its friendly farm animals at the base. :pig2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Colmer's Hill for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of the Dorset countryside and coastline, with the iconic pine trees being a memorable landmark. While the climb is steep and can be challenging, most agree the effort is well worth the spectacular reward. Some note that the trees at the summit have become denser, slightly obscuring the view compared to previous years.
"A short walk from the symondbury estate car park but it does get steep, so won't be suitable for small children or anyone with mobility/fitness concerns. Nice view at the top but it is more obscured by pine trees than it used to be in years previous. It's still worthaking the effort and enjoying the view."
Angie Dennison
"Wow what a hill and what a climb to take in all the beauty and spectacular views from it's top across the Dorset landscape including the coastline. It's very steep but the achievement you will get is a great reward."
Matthew
"Parking to access this can be at Symondsbury Estate.
Postcode DT6 6HG.
Go past the main shop and cafe entrance, and keep going, then take the next gravel track on your left.
This brings you to the car park which is free.
The hill itself has more trees on it than it used to, and is rather shaded and cool at the top, especially in the summer.
The views are stunning.
All of the walks entail a steep climb but the walk from the west side is the lesser of the steep options.
There are also walks available from the village too, small footpath by the church.
This is definitely worth a visit, but take some water and take your time climbing up."
R J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colmer's Hill is located on the Symondsbury Estate near Bridport. The easiest access is via the estate's free car park (DT6 6HG), following a gravel track past the main entrance. You can also find footpaths from Symondsbury village, including one by the church.
Yes, there is free parking available at Symondsbury Estate. Head past the main shop and cafe, then take the next gravel track on your left to reach the car park.
Yes, it's possible to walk from Bridport, though it's a longer journey. Many visitors opt to drive to Symondsbury Estate for easier access to the hill's trails.
The postcode for the Symondsbury Estate car park, which provides access to Colmer's Hill, is DT6 6HG.
While direct public transport to the very base of the hill is limited, you can take a bus to Bridport and then potentially a local taxi or a longer walk to Symondsbury.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Colmer's Hill is accessible via a permissive footpath on the Symondsbury Estate, and there is no admission fee. Parking at the estate is also free.
As it's an outdoor natural landmark, Colmer's Hill is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Symondsbury Estate facilities may have specific opening times.
There is no entrance fee for the Symondsbury Estate itself, and the parking provided for access to Colmer's Hill is free.
Colmer's Hill is an open natural area, so you can visit during daylight hours. However, it's best to check for any specific estate access information if you plan to visit very early or late.
As it's a natural landscape, visitors are expected to respect the environment. Stick to marked paths and be mindful of the wildlife and the estate's guidelines.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The climb itself can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views. The walk from the estate car park is about 20 minutes.
The path is steep and can be uneven, cut deep into the soft sandstone. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended.
You'll enjoy far-reaching views over the beautiful Dorset countryside and coastline. On a clear day, you can see Langdon Hill to the west and Chesil Beach to the east.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes at the summit of Colmer's Hill itself. You'll find these at the Symondsbury Estate base.
Dogs are generally welcome on the Symondsbury Estate and Colmer's Hill, but they should be kept under control, especially around farm animals and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers stunning light for capturing the panoramic views and the iconic pine trees. Winter mornings can also provide beautiful frosty landscapes. 
The cluster of nine pine trees on the summit is the most recognizable feature and a popular spot for photos. The sweeping views from the top are also a must-capture.
Drone usage may be restricted on private estates like Symondsbury. It's advisable to check the estate's policy or local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the distance. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, the picturesque Symondsbury village with its cottages and the farm animals at the base offer charming photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and take your time on the ascent. The picturesque village of Symondsbury itself is also a lovely place for a gentle wander, with its charming cottages providing a gentler experience if the full climb is too much.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Beyond the immediate climb, the Symondsbury Estate offers opportunities for extended walks, connecting to the wider network of footpaths in the area. The changing seasons bring different beauty, from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers
+1Consider visiting on a frosty winter morning for dramatic, atmospheric shots, or during autumn to capture the rich, warm hues of the landscape. The charming Symondsbury village and its inhabitants also provide excellent subjects for more intimate photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Nine Pines
+1These trees have become synonymous with Colmer's Hill, appearing in countless photographs and artworks, symbolizing the beauty of the Dorset coast. Their enduring presence makes them a focal point for visitors, offering a sense of place and a memorable backdrop for any visit.
Whether you're capturing a sweeping panorama or a close-up of the textured bark, the nine pines offer a constant reminder of the natural and curated beauty of the Symondsbury Estate. They are a testament to thoughtful landscape design and a beloved icon of West Dorset.
Exploring the Symondsbury Estate
At the base of Colmer's Hill, the estate often features friendly farm animals, including donkeys and pigs, which are a delight for families and animal lovers. This provides a gentle introduction to the rural landscape before embarking on the climb. The estate also has a shop and cafe, offering local produce and refreshments.
The estate is also a hub for local artisans and events. You might find local crafts, calendars featuring local scenes like Colmer's Hill, or even seasonal events that celebrate the Dorset countryside. It's a place that truly embodies the spirit of rural West Dorset.
+1The Geological and Historical Significance
The soft sandstone of the hills in this region has yielded ancient ammonites and other marine reptile fossils, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life. Although Colmer's Hill itself isn't a primary fossil hunting site, its geological context is part of the rich tapestry of Dorset's natural history.
Historically, the area has seen Viking invasions and has been a significant part of West Dorset's landscape for centuries. The distinctive shape of Colmer's Hill has likely served as a landmark for travelers and inhabitants for generations, connecting the present-day visitor to a long and varied past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit