Coastwalk , South West Coast Path

Lyme Regis → West Bay

Distance: 10.0 miles
Ascent: 870 metres
Duration: 4 hours 3 minutes

The roof of the south coast
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Between Lyme Regis and Charmouth, extensive landslips have diverted the coast path inland by a kilometre or so. Knowledge of a further diversion east of Charmouth kept me from the seafront in the village, instead taking me up Stonebarrow Lane to rejoin the clifftop somewhere beyond Westhay Farm.

These early miles aside, the day followed the cliff closely, rolling over some more strenuous climbs.

At 191m Golden Cap is the highest point on the south coast, and provided a suitable setting for lunch. To the west I could just about count the headlands I've rounded this week; to the east Chesil Beach drew the eye towards Portland, a landmark for a future walk.

It's only half-way through the week, but I've decided to stop walking for now. Even if I continued though to Sunday I'd not be able to close the gap between here and Sandbanks so instead I'm leaving about a week's walking for a future holiday.

So with time on my side I made a slow descent of Golden Cap. Savouring the views. Smiling at the hang-gliders waiting on the cliffs. Looking forward to walks to come.

Rewalked on 24 September 2011.