
Symondsbury Estate
Explore atmospheric sunken lanes, climb Colmers Hill for stunning views, and enjoy local art and food at this charming Dorset estate.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Symondsbury Estate
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore atmospheric sunken lanes, climb Colmers Hill for stunning views, and enjoy local art and food at this charming Dorset estate.
"A truly stunning place for a day of 'me time' with the best walks in Dorset."

Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be steep and uneven, especially up Colmers Hill. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Dog-friendly cafe :dog:
Both indoor and outdoor seating at the cafe welcome dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colmers Hill Views
Summit of Colmers Hill
Panoramic vistas of Dorset countryside and the sea await. The nine iconic pine trees mark the summit.

Sunken Ancient Lanes
Various walking paths
Explore atmospheric, Tolkien-esque sunken lanes that feel like stepping back in time. A unique walking experience.

Sou Sou West Gallery
Symondsbury Estate
Discover local art and crafts in this beautiful gallery, showcasing Dorset's landscapes and charm.

Estate Cafe & Shops
Visitor Centre
Enjoy delicious food and browse unique handmade items, local produce, and gifts in the charming shops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walks
Free Entry & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be steep and uneven, especially up Colmers Hill. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Dog-friendly cafe :dog:
Both indoor and outdoor seating at the cafe welcome dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Explore the holloways :deciduous_tree:
These ancient sunken lanes offer a unique and atmospheric walking experience, a highlight for many visitors.
Check the gallery exhibits :art:
Sou Sou West Gallery features rotating exhibitions of local artists, adding an artistic dimension to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be steep and uneven, especially up Colmers Hill. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Dog-friendly cafe :dog:
Both indoor and outdoor seating at the cafe welcome dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Explore the holloways :deciduous_tree:
These ancient sunken lanes offer a unique and atmospheric walking experience, a highlight for many visitors.
Check the gallery exhibits :art:
Sou Sou West Gallery features rotating exhibitions of local artists, adding an artistic dimension to your visit.
Free parking is a bonus :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the estate without the worry of parking fees, a refreshing aspect for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Symondsbury Estate for its beautiful walks, particularly the atmospheric sunken lanes and the rewarding climb up Colmers Hill with its stunning views. The free parking and dog-friendly cafe are also frequently highlighted as major advantages. Some minor points of improvement mentioned include clearer signage for certain walking routes.
"This is an outdoor area, with amenities in the middle.
There's a few small shops.
There's toilets.
The parking is free.
Go past the main entrance with the foot access on your left, continue down the lane until you see a gravel track going up a small hill.
The car park is up there.
The cafe is table service and has an indoor and outdoor area. BOTH areas are dog friendly.
Highly unusual and very helpful.
There are many walks to be had, and also this is a good starting place for Colmers hill, the hill with the trees.
The walk is steep, but short.
This estate is well worth a visit and the food was delicious."
R J
"Lovely rural area with pleasant walks, scenic views over miles of Dorset countryside, and atmospheric holloways.
Colmers Hill is a distinctive landmark, distinguished by the cluster of pine trees on its summit. It's around a 15-20 minute walk from the village, heading along Shute's Lane. Once the holloway opens out, there are fine views of Langdon Hill and the sea.
The village of Symondsbury is characterised by picturesque historic buildings constructed from local stone, including an attractive church, pub and some charming cottages.
There's more to do on the estate, with shopping opportunities at the Visitor Centre & Deli, and Home & Garden Store, where you can find quality handmade items. Parking can be found around the village."
Andrew Thomas
"What a place. Great shops, wonderful restaurant, loads to see and to cap it off with some stunning walks in ancient lanes and up and down a very steep hill. The views at the top are out of this world! Go you will not be disappointed and refreshingly no parking or entry charges!
Great place 😀"
Jonny Norman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Symondsbury Estate is located near Bridport in Dorset. While public transport options are limited, driving is the most convenient. Free parking is available around the village and at a gravel track car park up a small hill past the main entrance.
Yes, parking is free at Symondsbury Estate. Look for the gravel track leading up a small hill past the main entrance, or find spaces around the village.
If you are staying locally, walking is a pleasant option. The estate is also a good starting point for various walks in the surrounding Dorset countryside.
Public transport options are limited. It's best to check local bus routes to Bridport and then consider a taxi or a longer walk to the estate.
For longer hikes, an OS map is recommended. Some visitors have found signage for specific points like the carvings on Colmers Hill could be improved.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Symondsbury Estate, and parking is also free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
The estate grounds are generally open for walking throughout the day. The cafe and shops have specific opening hours, which are best checked on their official website or social media.
Yes, Symondsbury Estate hosts various events, including gut health cooking classes and yoga sessions. Booking is usually done online via their website.
The walks themselves are free to access as part of the estate. There are no specific charges for enjoying the scenic routes.
If you are looking to stay at accommodation like Crepe Farm Cottage, booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, visit the Sou Sou West Gallery, browse the estate shops, and dine at the dog-friendly cafe. Colmers Hill offers stunning views.
Yes, the estate offers various walking options. The sunken lanes are generally easy to navigate, while the climb up Colmers Hill is steeper but rewarding.
Absolutely! The atmospheric sunken lanes, the iconic Colmers Hill, and the charming estate buildings provide numerous picturesque photo opportunities.
There are several shops, including a Visitor Centre & Deli, a Home & Garden Store, and the Sou Sou West Gallery, offering handmade items, local produce, and art.
Yes, there are toilets available on the estate, which is convenient for visitors spending a few hours exploring.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The estate features a cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating, offering delicious food. It's also dog-friendly, which is a significant plus for many visitors.
Yes, the cafe at Symondsbury Estate is very dog-friendly, welcoming pets in both its indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Visitors have praised the food at the cafe, describing it as delicious and served in lovely country estate surroundings.
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, the cafe often offers a range of items. It's advisable to check their menu or inquire directly about specific dietary needs.
Yes, the Visitor Centre & Deli often stocks local produce, making it a great place to pick up regional treats.
📸 📸 Photography
The atmospheric sunken lanes, the panoramic views from Colmers Hill, and the charming architecture of the estate buildings are prime photography locations.
Definitely. The rolling Dorset hills, distant sea views from Colmers Hill, and the unique textures of the ancient lanes offer excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Generally, photography of artwork in galleries is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check the gallery's specific policy or ask a staff member.
No specific restrictions are widely mentioned, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and private property when taking photos.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides the most flattering light for the landscape and the estate's architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Hikers
🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Walks and Colmers Hill
The climb up Colmers Hill is another must-do. While the direct route can be steep and demanding, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the Dorset countryside and out towards the sea. The distinctive cluster of nine pine trees on the summit serves as an iconic landmark. Some visitors have noted that signage for specific points of interest, like stone carvings, could be clearer, so keeping an eye out or asking fellow walkers might be helpful.
For those seeking a more guided experience, there are resources available, such as detailed hike descriptions shared online, which can help you navigate the trails effectively. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain.
The Estate's Amenities: Shops, Gallery, and Cafe
The estate also features several shops, including a Visitor Centre & Deli and a Home & Garden Store. These offer a curated selection of handmade items, local produce, and gifts, providing a delightful shopping experience.
The cafe is a central hub, offering delicious food in a pleasant setting. A notable feature is its dog-friendly policy, allowing visitors to bring their canine companions to enjoy a meal or a coffee both indoors and outdoors. This inclusivity makes it a welcoming spot for a wider range of visitors. The cafe also hosts various workshops, such as gut health cooking classes, adding another layer of activity to the estate.
Symondsbury Estate for Special Occasions
Beyond weddings, the estate's barn is also used for wellness activities like yoga and mobility classes. These sessions are designed to energize and enhance flexibility, taking place in a serene and picturesque environment. The estate's versatility means it can cater to a range of events, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations, all within a stunning rural setting.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit