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Historic Purbeck, Dorset, England
Corfe Castle
Historic Purbeck
Purbeck is one of Dorset’s best kept secrets. Its superb coastline has been declared a World Heritage Site for its stunning beauty and amazing geological formations. Explore hidden coves, Jurassic cliffs and majestic rock formations populated by a wide variety of wildlife including puffins and birds of prey and, in the waters around, playful dolphins.
However, the coastline is not Purbeck’s only star attraction! Much of the countryside inland has been officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nestled amongst these stunning hills and vales are outstanding attractions such as the dominating and romantic ruins of Corfe Castle, Durlston Country Park perched dramatically on the cliff top and an 18th century Castle at Lulworth complete with magnificent grounds.
Purbeck is also the ideal place to discover more about Lawrence of Arabia. Close by to his house, Clouds Hill now owned by the National Trust, is the world famous Tank Museum which amuses all ages for hours with its exciting and unique exhibits. Or for a different form of escapism, Monkey World, a popular monkey sanctuary, is situated nearby.
Purbeck is delightful with small villages of stone, cob and thatch. It also has one of Britain’s favourite seaside resorts, Swanage, whose charming beach and bay with its superb sandy beaches can be enjoyed by all. Call into the Heritage Centre on the seafront between the beach and the pier for a unique insight into Swanage’s fascinating history.
Also to be discovered is the ancient town of Wareham, once one of the most important towns in the country in Saxon times, and now a peaceful town that is gaining a reputation as a centre for locally produced food.
There are also so many ways to explore Purbeck. A steam railway travels through spectacular scenery from Corfe Castle to Swanage. There are also many bus links enabling you to enjoy your holiday without using your car. However, if you really want to discover the secrets of the countryside, there are many walking routes which take in hidden rock formations, sightings of rare wildlife, spectacular beaches and views over the largest natural harbour in the world.
Accommodation is plentiful and can suit all types of visitors. From historic farmhouses to small guesthouses, camping and caravanning to self catering and some large hotels in the town and countryside, Purbeck has it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Purbeck will offer you a warm welcome, whenever you come.
More information?
Contact:
Swanage Tourist Information Centre
The White House, Shore Road, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1LB
Tel: 0870 4420680
Or
Purbeck Tourist Information Centre
Holy Trinity Church
South Street, Wareham, Dorset BH20 4LU
Web: purbeck.gov.uk
Email: tourism@purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1929 552740
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