Hardy Monument

If in a car, park at the Hardy Monument (What3Words: ///version.frown.kilowatt) and enjoy the view out to sea and across the countryside before starting the walk. There is a width limit so, if you are in a motorhome or van, you may need to park in the car park to the east of the monument.

On certain weekends, the National Trust owned monument is open to climb.

This 7km route includes heathland, woods and farmland. It is hilly , but with plenty of views.

Thanks to Sally Gard for devising this route.

Follow in OS Maps

Download a pdf map of the route

About Hardy Monument

"The Hardy Monument stands on an exposed location above the village of Portesham in Dorset. It was built in 1844 in memory of Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, Flag Captain of HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. Amongst other things, Hardy became famous as it was in his arms that Nelson died, saying the immortal words 'Kiss me Hardy'. We became owners of the site in 1938 and have maintained it ever since.

The future of the monument has been safeguarded thanks to a £150,000 restoration project carried out during 2011. The project involved re-pointing nearly 80% of the monument and replacing over a hundred badly eroded stones. The memorial plaque on the outside of the monument was also restored."

Source: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/dorset/hardy-monument

Hardy Monument.pdf