Golden Cap Circular (Langdon Hill)

Golden Cap Circular scores 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it one of Dorset's most rewarding walks for dogs who love a challenge. The route offers a great mix of sheltered woodland and open clifftop terrain, giving dogs plenty of variety , from shaded sniffing through the trees to exhilarating sea air on the exposed summit. It's best suited to fit, active dogs rather than those who prefer an easy stroll, given the sustained climb and uneven ground.

Off-lead potential here is moderate , there are sections where dogs can roam more freely, but leads are essential near the cliff edges for safety, and you should keep dogs on lead through any fields where livestock may be grazing. The woodland sections and open clifftop stretches offer the best opportunities for a bit more freedom, but the exposed nature of parts of the route means you'll want to stay attentive throughout.

This is a properly physical walk , 7.2 km with 336 metres of cumulative elevation gain , so it's worth making sure your dog is fit enough for the challenge before you set off. There's no natural water access on the upper sections, so bringing plenty of water for your dog is essential. The summit can be very exposed and windy, so be prepared for the elements. Parking is at the National Trust Langdon Hill car park, which is free for members but charged for non-members, and there are no other facilities on site.