Isle of
Tucked away in the south eastern corner of Dorset, the Isle of Purbeck is approximately 100 square miles of land that is bounded on three sides by water. Although not an Island in the strict meaning of the word, it does convey a feeling that is particularly apt. Its dramatic coastline forms part of a unique stretch of coast that has joined the ranks of the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon, as one of the acknowledged wonders of the natural world, and now has the status of World Heritage Coast.
With some of the best sea views and spectacular scenery along the whole of the south coast, Lulworth Cove is one of its most known beauty spots. The distinctive shape and natural beauty of Lulworth Cove has featured on many a calendar, so will be familiar to countless of people who have never actually visited Lulworth itself. But the reality is far more dramatic than any picture.
Inland, between Lulworth Cove and Kimmeridge Bay, is the little village of Tyneham. Evacuated during the Second World War to be used as a part of a firing range by the military, the village now stands as a time capsule. Here you can get a flavour of what life was like in an English rural village in the 1930s and 40s. Interesting and educational, it appeals to all the family. Access to Tyneham is limited as it is situated within the Army firing ranges.
Travel inland again to find one of Purbeck’s two main towns, Wareham. Originally it was a fortified town in Saxon times, being part of King Alfred’s defences against Danish attacks. It stands in a strategic position on both the Rivers Frome and Piddle, near to where they enter Poole Harbour.
At one time Wareham was a busy port but most of the trade disappeared when the river silted up. Water still plays a full part in its attractions, however, the Quay with the tower of Lady St. Mary Church and ‘The Old Granary’ makes an attractive public promenade. From the quayside you can hire boats or take boat trips down the river.
Head south from Wareham and you reach the dramatic landmark of Corfe Castle. As you explore one of the most impressive ruined castles in England, you will be following in the footsteps of kings, knights, soldiers, workmen, servants, prisoners and all of the people who have lived at, worked in or fought over Corfe Castle during its 1000 year history. Today Corfe Castle gives its name to a quiet picturesque village in beautiful and peaceful countryside, which is dominated by the majestic ruin.
But to the castle builder, William the Conqueror, and his royal successors, this castle, protecting the gateway to the Isle of Purbeck, made it one of the most important in the land. The castle was then deliberately destroyed by Act of Parliament in 1646 and left as it stands today.
Now owned by the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation charity, it is protected by parliament as a scheduled monument, and is open to visitors all year. There are new information points around the Castle this year which allow you to uncover the secrets of the iconic medieval monument. Discover how royalty, warfare and nature have shaped the Castle.
The Castle grounds are perfect for a picnic or you can to sample some fine food and drink at the adjacent 18th century tearoom, with its delightful garden. Close by, and not to be missed,
12 The Tourist Handbook Wessex 2011
is one of the largest National Trust shops in the country, carrying an extensive range of National Trust merchandise.
From Corfe, one can reach the town of Swanage by steam train from the village station. Swanage Railway, Dorset’s premier steam railway, runs from Norden park-and-ride station, along six miles of track to Swanage town centre. Alternatively, by road, one of the prettiest drives is along the B3069 leaving from Corfe, which rises quickly and provides some of the best viewpoints back to the castle you can find.
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