History of the Hill

If you’ve ever visited Symondsbury Estate – or simply driven through West Dorset – you’ll have seen the unmistakable silhouette of Colmers Hill, rising like a sentinel 417 feet above the countryside with its perfectly conical shape and crown of pines.

Once part of a 17th-century tenement farmed by the Colmer family, Colmers Hill became part of Symondsbury Estate in 1910 when it was purchased by Sir William Philip Colfox. His family still owns the Estate today – and the hill remains a source of pride, history and daily inspiration.

Geologically ancient, Colmers Hill was formed over 180 million years ago and is composed of soft, golden Bridport Sands. The striking pine trees were planted in the early 20th century by Colfox’s handyman, John Sprake – later joined by Maritime Pines in 2006 to mark the birth of William’s grandson, John. It’s the addition of these trees that makes the hill so instantly recognisable from miles around. Today, it stands as a muse for photographers and artists from all over the world.

But Colmers Hill isn’t just for admiring. It’s a popular walk for thousands each year – steep but rewarding, with sweeping views across the Jurassic Coast and rolling West Dorset hills. Park in our car park, pick up a picnic from the Symondsbury Deli, bring the dog, and make a morning of it. Afterwards, treat yourself to lunch at Symondsbury Kitchen. And if you’re feeling adventurous, continue your walk all the way to Golden Cap.

Being part of history for hundreds of generations – from being linked to the Vikings and housing a wartime rifle range, through to being the backdrop for so many beautiful weddings on the Estate and the perfect place for quiet moments of reflection – Colmers Hill has long left its mark on hearts and minds.

Why not stay a little longer and let it work its quiet magic on you? Our cottages – Axen Lodge and Oak Cottage – offer the perfect base, each with postcard-worthy views of the hill itself.

See it. Climb it. Stay a while. Colmers Hill is waiting.