Purbeck & Coast

Corfe Castle lies at the heart of an area known as The Isle of Purbeck – in reality, a peninsula stretching from Wareham in the North, towards Swanage and St Aldhelms Head in the South.

In December 2001, the Dorset and East Devon Coast was officially recognised as one of the natural wonders of the world.

This puts the coast around Purbeck firmly on the map as one of the most geologically important places on the planet.

The 95 mile stretch of coast, starting at Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage, provides a walk through some 185 million years of the history of the planet and contains a number of outstanding fossil deposits.

Apart from Corfe Castle, there are many more delights to discover around Purbeck.

The seaside town of Swanage boasts not only the famed Steam Railway, but also offers excellent beaches and a good range of shops.

Nearby Studland has equally beautiful beaches and provides access to the Chain Ferry.

For those seeking quieter times, coastal areas including Kimmeridge, Lulworth and Durdle Door are matched by the small villages, beautiful countryside and relaxed atmosphere, that can be found throughout Purbeck.

To underline the appeal of this beautiful corner of England, some 4.5 million visitor days are spent in Purbeck every year!