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Winterbourne Steepleton

Hardy Monument

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Places to see

United Kingdom

England

South West England

Dorset

West Dorset

Winterbourne Steepleton

Hardy Monument

Recommended by 86 cyclists out of 87

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Dorset National Landscape

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Location: Winterbourne Steepleton, West Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Top cycling routes to Hardy Monument

4.0

(2)

riders

1. Around Portland loop from Dorchester

61.6km

04:11

760m

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2. Beaminster, Bridport & Burton Bradstock loop from Dorchester

87.3km

06:04

1,020m

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0

(1)

402

riders

3. Hardy Monument – View from Crow Hill loop from Upwey

40.5km

02:45

580m

Expert bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Tips

Paul

August 6, 2017

The monument is not for Thomas Hardy, but was built in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. This is the Hardy of Admiral Nelson, with the immortal words 'Kiss me Hardy'. It is situated on National Trust land.

If you are lucky you'll find a van selling snacks and drinks You might need some refreshment if you have cycled or walked.

They say you can see five counties from here on a clear day. The top of the monument is about 853 feet (260 m) above sea level and you can climb to the top of it when open (120 or so steps on a spiral staircase).

The monument can be seen for miles around. The view from the top, south to Weymouth and Portland, northeast to Dorchester and Puddletown Forest, east towards Purbeck and west towards Devon and Cornwall is quite breathtaking. The view is not too shabby from the bottom either.

The monument is not always open and is liable to be closed in bad weather for safety reasons. Car park was 50p an hour and a £2 charge to go up the tower, and free for National Trust members. There are picnic tables and other spots for you to have your own chairs to enjoy the stunning views. Unfortunately no toilet facilities.

For opening hours and more info see

nationaltrust.org.uk/hardy-monument

Jack

August 30, 2021

The climb up to the Hardy Monument from the south is one of those climbs that you initially don't notice, you just slowly start feeling progressively more tired. It doesn't take long before it becomes steeper and more obvious - the climb is well worth the panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.

Stephen Taylor

September 25, 2024

Spectacular views! And a pat on the back for climbing.

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Elevation 280 m

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Wednesday 1 October

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See rides here

Take Me There

Location: Winterbourne Steepleton, West Dorset, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Hardy Monument

1. Around Portland loop from Dorchester

2. Beaminster, Bridport & Burton Bradstock loop from Dorchester

3. Hardy Monument – View from Crow Hill loop from Upwey

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