Wander along Shute’s Lane, named as one of the UK’s most striking examples of a sunken path
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Symondsbury Estate

4.6
·529 reviews·Symondsbury, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Wander along Shute’s Lane, named as one of the UK’s most striking examples of a sunken path

Symondsbury Estate

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(529 reviews)

"A truly stunning place for a day of 'me time' with the best walks in Dorset."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Colmers Hill Views

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

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

Sou Sou West Gallery

Symondsbury Estate

Discover local art and crafts in this beautiful gallery, showcasing Dorset's landscapes and charm.

Estate Cafe & Shops

Estate Cafe & Shops

Visitor Centre

Enjoy delicious food and browse unique handmade items, local produce, and gifts in the charming shops.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Walks

Symondsbury Estate offers stunning walks, from atmospheric sunken lanes to the rewarding climb up Colmers Hill. Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe: and be prepared for some steep sections, especially on the direct route up Colmers Hill. The estate is a fantastic starting point for exploring the surrounding Dorset countryside.

Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy the beauty of Symondsbury Estate without worrying about entry fees or parking charges :moneywithwings:. This makes it a great value destination for a day out. The cafe and shops offer local produce and handmade items, perfect for a souvenir or a delicious bite.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Cafe and shops are lively
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant for walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The sunken lanes of Symondsbury in Dorset 🌳🗺️ ✨One of our favourite recent locations to explore, this fantastic location definitely had a Tolkienesque feel to it from the sunken ancient lanes to the green open fields and Colmers hill dominating the skyline.The estate also has a café, shop, play area and more to explore. 📍Symondsbury estate - DT6 6HG #dorset #visitdorset #symondsburyestate #bri...
ourhampshireandbeyond
3.1K likes • 98.3K views

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.

🍂 Autumn Alert! 🍂 📌 Colmers Hill on the Symondsbury Estate is a great place to soak up the hues of autumn. Enjoy animal encounters, tree lined paths and glorious panoramic views. Ever wondered why Colmers Hill nine pine trees are there? Head to the Explore section on our website to find out why! (link in bio). #colmershill #symondsburyestate #westdorset #dorsetAONB #autumn #LoveDorset #wildlife...
dorsetnationallandscape
69 likes • 1.5K views
Symondsbury to Colmers Hill, 5 mile hike - part 1 of 2 Thought it was about time for me to jump on this talking reels trend so here’s a fully guided countryside hike for you (please be kind 😅😅). The OS map is in my bio but if you’re not confident with a map, or you just want to double track you’re on the right track then this will take you through the whole walk (though I may have got a bit carri...
where.terri.wanders
432 likes • 7.4K views

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.

Today’s first Gut Health Cooking Class @symondsburyestate was a great success 💚 Thanks to all who came 🙏🏼 Homemade plant milks, smoothies, and cold pressed juices. The next class on Wednesday 21st May will be all about fermented foods. You can book your place online at the Symondsbury Estate website. Such a beautiful location and at the best time of year ☀️ #guthealth #gutmicrobiome #foodas...
the_well_life_lab
28 likes • 666 views

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

4.6
(529 reviews)

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

Beautiful walks
Stunning views
Free parking

What People Dislike

Signage could be clearer

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Yes, Symondsbury Estate hosts various events, including gut health cooking classes and yoga sessions. Booking is usually done online via their website. Instagram+1

The walks themselves are free to access as part of the estate. There are no specific charges for enjoying the scenic routes. Reddit

If you are looking to stay at accommodation like Crepe Farm Cottage, booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. InstagramReddit+1

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. Instagram

Absolutely! The atmospheric sunken lanes, the iconic Colmers Hill, and the charming estate buildings provide numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are toilets available on the estate, which is convenient for visitors spending a few hours exploring. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Yes, the cafe at Symondsbury Estate is very dog-friendly, welcoming pets in both its indoor and outdoor seating areas. Reddit

Visitors have praised the food at the cafe, describing it as delicious and served in lovely country estate surroundings. Reddit

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. Instagram

Yes, the Visitor Centre & Deli often stocks local produce, making it a great place to pick up regional treats. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The atmospheric sunken lanes, the panoramic views from Colmers Hill, and the charming architecture of the estate buildings are prime photography locations. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

No specific restrictions are widely mentioned, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and private property when taking photos. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides the most flattering light for the landscape and the estate's architecture. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Symondsbury Estate offers a great day out for families. The sunken lanes provide an adventurous and imaginative play space for children, while the walk up Colmers Hill offers a rewarding challenge with a fantastic view as a prize. Instagram The estate's dog-friendly cafe is a huge plus, allowing families to relax with their pets. Reddit There are also shops with interesting items that might appeal to younger visitors. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as while the cafe is good, having extras can be handy for little ones on longer explorations.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Symondsbury Estate is ideal. The network of ancient sunken lanes offers unique and atmospheric routes, while the climb up Colmers Hill provides a more strenuous but highly rewarding hike with spectacular views. InstagramReddit Wear sturdy walking boots as some paths can be steep and uneven. Reddit The estate is a great starting point for longer walks into the surrounding Dorset countryside, so bring a map if you plan an extensive trek. Reddit

🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts

The Sou Sou West Gallery at Symondsbury Estate is a must-visit for art lovers. It showcases a diverse range of works by local artists, often inspired by the beautiful Dorset scenery. Instagram+1 Beyond the gallery, the estate itself, with its historic buildings and picturesque landscapes, offers a rich visual experience. The charming shops also feature handmade crafts and unique items, appealing to those with an appreciation for artisanal creations. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Walks and Colmers Hill

Symondsbury Estate is a walker's paradise, offering a variety of routes that cater to different preferences. The sunken ancient lanes are a standout feature, creating an almost magical atmosphere with their high banks and winding paths. These lanes feel like stepping into a storybook, and many visitors find them incredibly photogenic. TikTokReddit

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. InstagramReddit 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. Reddit

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. Instagram Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy, especially after rain. Reddit

The Estate's Amenities: Shops, Gallery, and Cafe

Beyond its natural beauty, Symondsbury Estate boasts a charming collection of amenities that enhance the visitor experience. The Sou Sou West Gallery is a significant draw, showcasing the work of talented local artists inspired by the Dorset landscape. It's a peaceful space to appreciate art and perhaps find a unique souvenir. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit 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. Instagram

Symondsbury Estate for Special Occasions

Symondsbury Estate is not only a destination for day trips but also a sought-after location for special events, particularly weddings. The picturesque setting, with its beautiful grounds and charming barns, provides a romantic backdrop for celebrations. Instagram Couples often choose Dorset for its natural beauty, and Symondsbury Estate offers a unique blend of rustic charm and elegant facilities. Instagram

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. Instagram 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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