Beer and Branscombe South West Coastal Path Walk

This 10 mile circular walk beginning at Beer takes in some of the most stunning coastline within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and is one not to miss!

Walk description: 

Following some brief introductions and safety talks we can then begin our walk - there will be plenty of time for everyone to get to know each other as we progress through the day.

From our starting point at the Cliff Top car park we will follow the South West Coastal Path west, passing Beer Head and Sherborne Rocks, before dropping down into the undercliff - a fine example of coastal slumping that occured in the chalk cliffs in 1790. The path is likely to be slipper here due to exposed chalk and flint, so please consider using walking sticks to aid with stability.

After a mile or so of undulating, wooded walking through the National Nature Reserve that covers Hooken Cliffs, we will emerge at Branscombe Mouth with its fine pebble beach and various memorials. There are public toilets here and benches if anyone needs a sit down. We will return here later in the day.

The trail then climbs very steeply up West Cliff, before entering into the native woodlands above Branscombe. Here we swap the sound of crashing waves for tuneful songbirds; it is easy to imagine what this stretch of coastline would have been like during prehistory before mass tree-felling occured. Soon we will pass by Berry Camp, an Iron Age Hillfort. The defended enclosure is now permanent pasture, and although it has been severely damaged by coastal erosion, it is still possible to see evidence of ramparts constructed by piling soil and flint in several places.

The level cliff top walking comes to an end as we reach Weston Mouth and head north towards Weston itself. At Lower Weston Farm we turn east and follow a quiet road into Branscombe, passing the Church of Saint Winifred, built between 1133 and 1160, and the Old Bakery, Manor Mill and Forge, now owned by the National Trust. 

A gentle path leads us back to Branscombe Mouth (and toilets), after which we climb steeply up East Cliff above the Undercliff that we walked earlier in the day. The trail is then level all the way back to the car park, with wonderful views over Beer Head, Seaton and beyond.

Whether you attend alone or with friends/family, you'll soon get to know everyone in the group and enjoy a stress-free day.

Walk length: 

Approx. 5/6hrs for 10 miles 

Date and time: 

Sunday 15th March 2020 | Start at 9:45am - meet around 9:30am

Start/finish location: 

OS Explorer OL 116 GR 228 889

Getting to the Cliff Top car park: 

From Beer follow signs to Beer Head Caravan Park. The car park is just outside of the caravan park.

Toilet stops:

There are toilets at Beer Head Caravan Park, though it is unlikely these will be open so early in the season. There are also toilets at Branscombe Mouth. Wild wee's are welcome though there is little cover for most of the walk.

Media: 

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Accidents and Incidents:

All of our team are qualified first aiders and will carry an appropriate first aid kit. Should you be involved in an accident or 

become injured during the walk it is important that you notify our staff as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let a member of staff know. Please use the booking form and the paper discplaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about.

Due to the nature of walking in an outdoor area there is often a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. Any queries please get in touch. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by our staff and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

Cars are left at owners own risk.

Weather:

The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking, and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the day before and will send you an email if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please do check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! If you need a kit list or gear advice, please get in touch.

Please note that the walks are weather dependant. Should the forecast present any danger, we will endeavour to review our plans and offer alternative routes.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk other than a few spare snacks and water if needed in an emergency. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. You are welcome to buy food and top up on water in the villages we pass through (if any) so long as everyone is happy to stop. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel and event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund.

By You: We require 14 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 50% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 14 days to 48 hrs before your scheduled arrival.

-100% of of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 48 hrs.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via the 'contact' page.