Pilsdon Pen
Dorset's second highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views and an ancient Iron Age hillfort.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unobstructed, breathtaking views
Pilsdon Pen
Best Time
Unobstructed, breathtaking views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dorset's second highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views and an ancient Iron Age hillfort.
"Fabulous views from the top of Pilsdon Pen. Lovely walks around that area. A great spot for a picnic."
🎯 Check the Weather First
Views are best on clear days. Fog can obscure the stunning panoramas. :cloud:
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Google Maps can be inaccurate. Look for National Trust signs for the correct route. :round_pushpin:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Hilltop Views
Sweeping vistas across Dorset, Wiltshire, Devon, and the sea. A truly breathtaking sight on a clear day.
Iron Age Hillfort
Explore the ancient Durotrigian tribe's defenses atop this prominent peak. A glimpse into history.
Marshwood Vale Scenery
Enjoy the rolling fields and hidden valleys that characterize the landscape surrounding Pilsdon Pen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating to Pilsdon Pen
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check the Weather First
Views are best on clear days. Fog can obscure the stunning panoramas. :cloud:
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Google Maps can be inaccurate. Look for National Trust signs for the correct route. :round_pushpin:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
The summit is a perfect spot for a picnic with incredible views. :sandwich:
🚶♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven, especially on the hillfort. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check the Weather First
Views are best on clear days. Fog can obscure the stunning panoramas. :cloud:
🗺️ Navigate with Care
Google Maps can be inaccurate. Look for National Trust signs for the correct route. :round_pushpin:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
The summit is a perfect spot for a picnic with incredible views. :sandwich:
🚶♀️ Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven, especially on the hillfort. :athletic_shoe:
📚 Research the History
Understanding the hillfort's past enhances the visit. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pilsdon Pen for its absolutely stunning panoramic views and the historical significance of its Iron Age hillfort. Many enjoy the walks in the surrounding countryside and find it a perfect spot for a picnic. Some note that navigation can be tricky and the views are weather-dependent.
"Very impressive hill fort with impressive views - our second visit was unfortunately on a foggy day!
Worth researching its history before visiting."
Dermot Cusack
"Wonderful views of Dorset Wiltshire and Devon, and also out to the sea. Went on a clear day so was a bonus, but you get lovely views."
Kerry Davis
"The location shown on google maps is NOT correct. Pilsden Pen is the other side of the B3162. Look for the National Trust icon."
Gareth Hardy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pilsdon Pen is located near Bridport, Dorset. While Google Maps might show an incorrect location, look for National Trust signage. The main access is on the other side of the B3162 road. It's recommended to use a GPS device or follow local signage carefully to reach the hillfort. 
Yes, there is typically parking available near the summit, often managed by the National Trust. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure a spot.
Public transport options to Pilsdon Pen are limited. It's best accessed by car. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to take a bus to a nearby town like Bridport or Beaminster and then arrange local transport or a taxi.
While the surrounding countryside offers cycling routes, cycling directly to the summit of Pilsdon Pen might be challenging due to the steepness and terrain. The walk is more commonly recommended.
The nearest towns to Pilsdon Pen are Bridport and Beaminster. Bridport is approximately 4.5 miles to the west of the hill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pilsdon Pen is owned by the National Trust, and access to the grounds and hillfort is generally free for visitors. Parking may be subject to charges depending on the specific car park.
Pilsdon Pen is an open natural landscape and is accessible at all reasonable times. There are no set opening or closing hours for the hill itself.
Yes, Pilsdon Pen is generally dog-friendly, especially for walks. However, it's important to keep dogs under control, particularly around livestock and during nesting seasons.
Camping is not permitted at Pilsdon Pen itself. However, there are likely campsites and accommodation options in the surrounding areas if you wish to stay overnight.
The path to the summit can be steep and uneven, making it challenging for wheelchairs. While some areas might be accessible, it's not considered fully wheelchair-friendly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is enjoying the panoramic views from the summit and exploring the ancient Iron Age hillfort. There are also lovely walking routes around the area, making it ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. +1
A walk to the summit and back, including time to enjoy the views, can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top. Some visitors complete a 5k loop.
The area is rich in natural beauty and you might spot various bird species. The surrounding countryside is home to typical rural wildlife.
Absolutely! Pilsdon Pen offers stunning panoramic views that are fantastic for landscape photography, especially on a clear day. The hillfort itself also provides interesting historical elements to capture.
Pilsdon Pen is an Iron Age hillfort, once defended by the Durotrigian tribe. It's the second highest point in Dorset and has a rich history tied to ancient settlements and the landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Clear days provide the best visibility for capturing the expansive views.
You can capture sweeping panoramic landscapes, detailed shots of the Iron Age hillfort, and the picturesque surrounding countryside. Drone photography can offer unique perspectives of the hill and its surroundings.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permissions, especially if it impacts other visitors or the environment.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the panoramic views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or for capturing detailed shots of the hillfort.
Drone photography is possible and can provide spectacular aerial views of Pilsdon Pen and the Dorset countryside. Always check local regulations and ensure safe operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The open space is perfect for kids to run around (under supervision, of course), and the summit is an ideal spot for a family picnic. Remember to dress them in layers and ensure they have comfortable walking shoes.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna. While not a wildlife hotspot, the tranquility of the area and the open skies offer a peaceful retreat. Remember to check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing conditions, as is common in elevated rural locations.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to do justice to the expansive vistas. A tripod can be beneficial for capturing sharp images in varying light conditions. Drone photography is also popular here, offering dramatic aerial perspectives of the hill and its surroundings, but always ensure you comply with regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Hillfort
+1The hillfort's design, with its earthworks, speaks to the ingenuity of its builders. It's a place where history feels tangible, especially when you're standing at the summit, looking out over the same landscapes they would have surveyed. The National Trust now cares for this significant historical monument, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate.
When visiting, take a moment to research the history of the hillfort beforehand. Understanding its context will undoubtedly deepen your appreciation for the site and the stories it holds. It’s more than just a hill; it’s a window into Britain’s ancient past.
The Breathtaking Panoramic Views
+3These sweeping vistas make Pilsdon Pen a photographer's dream and a perfect spot for a leisurely picnic. The ever-changing light throughout the day can transform the landscape, offering different moods and perspectives. Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' are particularly magical for capturing the beauty of the countryside.
+1Visitors consistently rave about the views, describing them as 'impressive' and 'fabulous.' The experience of standing atop Pilsdon Pen, with the wind in your hair and the vast expanse of England laid out before you, is truly memorable. It’s a place that reminds you of the sheer beauty and scale of the natural world.
Walking and Exploring the Landscape
+2Many visitors enjoy completing a loop walk, which can be around 5 kilometers, offering a good balance of exercise and scenic enjoyment. The paths are generally well-trodden, but it's always wise to wear appropriate footwear, especially after rain, as the ground can become muddy.
Beyond the immediate summit, the surrounding landscape is dotted with historical sites and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of rural England. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and help keep these beautiful landscapes pristine.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit