An all-terrain mobility scooter that can go ‘off road’ is opening up the iconic Golden Cap estate to people who have difficulty walking.
The Golden Cap estate, managed by National Trust, is the latest of 36 sites to become part of the award-winning Countryside Mobility scheme.
The routes at the estate, which includes the highest cliffs in Southern England, take in spectacular coastal views along the World Heritage Site as well as woodland walks in the rolling hills back from the coastline. Although the path to the very summit of Golden Cap is not currently suitable it is hoped that if demand for service is strong resources may be found for the necessary path works.
Nick Tarrier, National Trust’s Ranger at the Golden Cap said:
“At National Trust we are always working to make our properties accessible to all but the rolling hills and winding paths that make up the wider estate have always been a challenge for anyone who has difficulty walking. Now we have the Tramper we can safely give people independence to explore areas of this spectacular estate. The Tramper will make a real difference for local residents from the surrounding area and those visiting from further afield.”
Neil Warren from Countryside Mobility added:
“We’re delighted to be working with National Trust at such a popular and scenic site which I’m sure will prove extremely popular.”
Sally King, Visitor Manager for the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site also welcomed the new facility. “As a World Heritage Site, one of the aims of the Jurassic Coast Partnership is to increase access opportunities to all people, so we are really pleased to see the Tramper available in one of the most iconic and unspoilt parts of the Jurassic Coast. We're sure it will be very well used!"
Visiting Golden Cap - Important Information, Booking and Directions
Due to the small scale of the site booking is essential. The service is available at 9am and 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and can also be booked for any start time on Saturdays and Sundays between 9am and 2pm. Call 01297 48948 or email [email protected]
Please note that, while there are plans to develop facilities at the site, there are currently no refreshments on site. There is a (non-Accessible) toilet. However, within a few minutes’ drive there are facilities at Seatown, Chideock and Charmouth.
The Tramper is located at Filcombe Farm (postcode: DT6 6EP).
From Bridport and the east, drive through Chideock village on the A35 and at the top of the steep hill, take the next left into the narrow, unmarked lane (just before the dual carriageway.
From the west, go through Morecombelake and after passing Felicity's Farm Shop, take the first turn on the right onto an unmarked lane (just at the end of the short dual carriageway).
Follow this narrow lane. After 50 metres ignore the turning left (signposted ‘Golden Cap Car Park’). Instead continue straight on. After around 400 metres there will be another turning left. Take this lane and after around 200 metres you will arrive at Filcombe Farm.
Funding towards the cost of the Tramper was provided by The Wolfson Foundation and Barchester Foundation, both of which support disability projects.