Golden Cap & the South West Coast Path loop from Langdon Hill

Embark on the Golden Cap & the South West Coast Path loop from Langdon Hill, a moderate jogging route spanning 6.4 miles (10.3 km) with an elevation gain of 889 feet (271 metres). This trail offers diverse terrain, from woodland paths on Langdon Hill, vibrant with bluebells and foxgloves in spring, to open heathland and coastal sections. You will encounter ancient trackways and fields, with some parts potentially muddy, leading to the demanding ascent and descent over Golden Cap itself, which involves steps. Expect to complete this varied loop in about 1 hour and 21 minutes, enjoying spectacular coastal views along the way.

Planning your visit to this area offers flexibility for your jogging experience. While the full loop over Golden Cap is challenging due to steep sections and steps, you can opt for a gentler experience by taking a shortcut that bypasses the steepest climb. The Langdon Hill section provides easier, more accessible woodland paths, suitable for a less strenuous jog. The trail is generally accessible, but be prepared for varied surfaces, including clear grass paths and dirt or stone paths.

This loop is notable for incorporating a section of the renowned South West Coast Path, offering classic coastal trekking. Golden Cap, the highest point on the South Coast of England at 191 meters (626 feet) above sea level, provides panoramic 360-degree views across Lyme Bay to Dartmoor and Portland Bill on clear days. The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot buzzards, ravens, and roe deer, and the National Trust manages valuable traditional hay meadows known for wildflowers. The trail also passes through ancient landscapes, including medieval trackways.