National Trust - Spyway in Langton Matravers offers a picturesque walk along the South West Coast Path, with limestone cliffs showcasing stunning views of the Jurassic Coast. The area is rich in history, featuring dinosaur footprints and remnants of ancient quarrying. Visitors can also spot unique plant species and wildlife. While exploring this rugged location, it's important to be mindful of safety measures.
Do I need to mention this is something truly incredible to see?!?
Directions could be clearer on how to get to the place by car, and I saw this point was already raised by several people… so I will just say I agree with them.
I also agree that there should be more caring for this site to ensure preservation of it.
PAOLA BRAGA — Google review
If you are walking along Priest's way then well worth the short detour to see the marks in the stone. This can be a very muddy path although there are some helpfully placed stones at the worst parts of the path. Discovered in 1997 and opened to the public in 2016. Opinion is these marks date back 140 million years. Some useful information boards, with explanations.
Roy Sirl — Google review
Amazing to be able to stand where dinosaurs once walked, 140 million years ago. The footprints have lost a little definition, nevertheless it doesn't take much imagination to picture the 40 tonne monsters leaving them. A half hour walk from the NT Spyway car park but well worth the effort. Dancing Ledge nearby; another reason to check out the area
Nick Nugent — Google review
Worth walking to but it is slightly small and probably not as “dinosaur footprinty” as you’ve imaged. Pretty amazing to think about though…
Amelia Langley — Google review
The footprints are really difficult to see as they've lost definition over the years. Interesting nonetheless.
Sarah WL — Google review
Small car park with some Porta Potty toilets. The payment machine wasn’t working whilst we were there, meaning we couldn’t use our National Trust cards. However the walk to see the Dinosaur footprints and to Dancing ledge are well worth the effort. 2 stars for Car park and four for the walls.
Andy Sperring — Google review
This is a great piece of history and it's fantastic that you get to stand exactly where a dinosaur once stood many many years ago.
One thing I would say is that the route to the footprints is not that clear, and we only found the way because we went with family who had already been before. But when you do arrive there is a nice information board which tells you about the sight and the footprints are there.
It is a shame though that more hasn't been done to preserve the footprints since discovery. They are just out and exposed to the elements and I'm sure it won't be long before they are just worn away.
Chris Lowes — Google review
Awe inspiring to think we have walked in the footsteps of giants. It creeps up on you as you're walking down the lane, look out for the little dinosaur on a post to direct you across a field which has a few stepping stones. It was well preseverved and signage was interesting. We parked in Acton Lane which is National Trust, aabout 10 spaces with a suggested £2 donation. From there walk through the village, about 15 minutes.
Lucy Chaplen — Google review
Enjoyed visiting the quarry to see the dinosaur footprints. Hard to photograph, but better in person. About 1 Mile walk from car park. I think there should be a bit more information there, so to can learn more about the area, the dinosaurs, the period of history etc. The footprints are losing definition, I'm not sure if this is since they have been exposed, but I'd like to see this being preserved more so it is there for years to come.
Wendy Peskett — Google review
Beautiful countryside, lovely 4mile walk, with some interesting features & views. Ending in the picturesque village of Worth Matravers.
Agglestone Rock, also known as Devil's Anvil, is a 400-tonne sandstone block located on a hill in Dorset. Legend has it that the Devil threw it from the Isle of Wight to hit Corfe Castle. Visitors can reach the rock by walking from Studland Village across the heath for about a mile. The area offers stunning views of Poole Harbour, Studland, Poole Bay, Hengistbury Head, and the Isle of Wight.
To appreciate the location better, take the path up from the rock onto the golf course. There are a couple of seats on the tees which give a chance to sit and admire the distant views to Poole Harbour, Studland, Poole bay to Hengistbury Head and across to the Isle of Wight.
Be warned that the paths are not easy and can be steep so be prepared with walking boots and some sustenance.
But the effort will be well worth it on a nice sunny day.
Phixer — Google review
Well, it's a huge sandstone rock plonked in the middle of nowhere! It is quite a thing to see, so it's worth walking to. We cycled to it, and the tracks were OK for mountain bikes. We met a couple there who slept there overnight, wild camping, it's that sort of place. It's on a slightly raised bit of ground, so the views are decent, and you can see back to the coast line. Some people climb the rock... whatever floats your boat. It was a dry, sunny day when we saw it, I wouldn't recommend going on a rainy day because it's quite exposed out there, so you'll be like a drowned rat staring at a big rock, wondering why you didn't just wait for a dry day to visit it.
Paul Garner — Google review
Beautiful, we were blessed with clear skies with no haze to spoil the view. The steps up to the rock are not the easiest but well worth it.
Yvette Gale — Google review
Lived in dorset all my life and at the grand age of 38 I had only just found out about this place. Just had to visit it and what an amazing place to visit, certainly didn't feel like I was in dorset anymore. Really was worth the effort.
Ross Thomson — Google review
A gentle walk with fantastic views to a huge rock in the middle of the heath. Don’t know how it got there! The rock itself is interesting but it’s the walk to the rock with the stunning views that is the best bit.
Michael Johnson — Google review
This collapsed on one side back in the 70s.
Before the collapse, it was known as the Devil's Anvil. Google some photos.
Nonetheless, this huge rock perched atop of a hill overlooking Studland is very cool. It's now at a steep angle, so almost everyone who visits climbs it. Why not, it's fun.
There are set out paths to the rock, so take them. If you go over the fields you'll encounter marsh and water logged spongy ground in areas.
Dan Murray — Google review
Visited as part of a nice 6 mile loop from Studland. The rock is on a little mound in the middle of some boggy heathland - it looks entirely out of place and interestingly there is little information to explain how it might have formed. However, it was a lovely little picnic stop on a warm afternoon to sit and admire the oddities of nature and to enjoy the views. Not the easiest walk to get to if walking in from Studland as some rough steps have been built to address soil erosion which can be a bit steep and uneven, but it is worth the effort if you can make it.
gojuryu512 — Google review
I was sceptical at first....what’s so great about a big old lump of stone on a hill??...plus how can such a sizeable lump of rock remain unseen despite walking regularly in the Purbecks for nearly fifty years??
So we decided to solve the mystery and visit Agglestone for the first time on a bitingly cold and bright day in February. The helpful ladies from the National Trust at Studland told us to walk along the shore to Middle Beach cafe (couldn’t resist a coffee and slice of their delicious Apple Cake as fuel for the journey), past the car park and up the pretty bridleway avoiding stepping on the crocuses on the way. It’s then over the main Ferry Road (watch out for speeding Lycra clad cyclists intent on missing the view!) past the stables and next left where the battle with the mud begins!!
There are some friendly locals in a field enjoying their lunchtime hay and four legs would definitely be the way to travel for the next stage. The path winds through woodland and after volleying a stream you gain your first glimpse of the rock high on the left. It’s a bit like seeing Blackpool Tower for the first time from the train!
The path has boardwalks to take you over the boggiest parts but as you climb it’s inevitable that your best walking boots will become covered - wellies are best. The final assault is some pretty fearsome steps but as you arrive at the top there’s a definite sense of achievement:-)
The rock itself is quite beautiful and will have you researching its geology when you get home...(how did it get there?- It’s a Tor I think). The views are fantastic- Poole Harbour, Studland Heath and shore, across to Bournemouth and the flash of the Needles on the Isle of Wight.
Crucially there’s a surprising serenity about the place with no roads near or in sight and just the odd fellow walker to disturb the tranquility of this weird phenomenon- a big old rock on a hill..
Dancing Ledge is a popular spot for tourists who enjoy rock climbing, swimming, hiking, and picturesque sunset views. It can be easily accessed from the South Coast Path and is full of heritage. The location offers stunning views of the sea and waves crashing against the rocks. Unfortunately, during rough seas it may not be possible to access the actual ledge or old pool area.
Easy to access just of the South Coast Path. Great views and full of heritage. When rough you cant access the actual ledge and old pool, but great to have a look around and see the waves crashing in.
Nathan Martin — Google review
Used to visit here many years ago and recently revisited. Just as lovely as I remember it. Steep grassy walk down to (and back up from) the car park, or walk along the coast from Swanage. To access the pool at sea level you need to scramble down the last section of rocks, not particularly difficult if you’re reasonably fit but if you have short legs like me you’ll have to jump a short way down so be prepared.
If you wish to swim you need to be there at low tide but also be aware that in rough weather it won’t be possible. Photos show the contrast between two visits, both at low tide! Respect the sea and return on a different day if it’s too rough.
Susan Herts — Google review
glorious seascape and coastal hills offering a 360 ft descent to Dancing Ledge old stone quarry with rock shelves and spectacular seas when the wind is strong.
Richard Denney — Google review
Stunning place, easy to walk to, a must visit if you're down this way
Marlski J — Google review
Brilliant place to stop on a nice day to enjoy the view. Walked here from Swanage which took approximately 2 hours at a leisurely pace.
Access to the ledge is over a small fence then down some rocky steps as you get closer.
There were people also rock climbing here.
Gavin Williams — Google review
Lovely place to sit and watch, the sea ,the rock climbing swimming in the rock pool
Christine Dennett — Google review
What a great experience, swimming in the sea pool. Be sure to get the tide right if you're planning a swim as it's not recommended at high tide, very strong currents. Really popular on a bank holiday weekend. I was glad there were others there as I needed help getting back up as I lack upper body strength. Wouldn't have attempted it on my own. It's popular with rock climbers too and those not able to climb down can picnic or watch from the higher ledge. Good place to see the waves crashing over rocks on an incoming tide. It's a trek back up hill though afterwards.
Sarah WL — Google review
Dancing ledge is a great visit, but you will need good footwear and be ready for a good walk, especially when getting down to the sea. But well worth the effort, the car park is complimentary if you're a national trust member! Probably worth visiting when it's sunny - wouldn't be very pleasant when wet and cold..
Callum — Google review
Gorgeous views and not really a strenuous hike from Swanage. It was quite busy, as there were also people there for rock climbing (would love to go back and do that). There is also a natural pool that was quite fun, and it was so interesting to see all the fossils and formations of the rocks. You might need a bit of help to get to the bottom level, as there aren't any steps.
Effie Paraskevopoulou — Google review
Amazing view from dancing ledge and a steep walk down is worth while. The Dorset coast line is fantastic.
Flynn Bellamy Cars — Google review
Had an absolutely lovely walk to Dancing Ledge from the spyway car park. Stunning views and walked down the path and sat on the rocks listening to the sea banging on the rocks. Unfortunately couldn't get to the pool as just to difficult for us oldies to climb down the rocks. Real shame as looked inviting and a real sun trap. A bit hilly on the way back up but no rush we just stopped and admired the views.
Jackie A — Google review
Absolutely stunning location. .. breathtaking scenery and loads of fossils.
Great to see so many people having fun coasteering (run by professional company, not recommended to do yourself)
This chapel quite literally became my refuge when I was heading towards it from the car park, the weather suddenly changed and started to rain. Very glad to see it was open!
Some services are still held here. Interesting booklet giving you the history of it. I walked from here to Chapman's pool along the coast path- lots of steps both up and down!
Sarah WL — Google review
Great little spot to visit. Car park about 25 minute walk, or on the south coast coastal path. Free and open to public.
Amazing piece of history here.
Robert Skett — Google review
Great if you like this sort of thing. Free car park just outside the village. Had a really nice walk out to the chapel, past a working stone quarry. The chapel was open and it was nice to go in and look round such an old building. The coastguard lookout was open and public can go in and talk to the watchmen who are only too happy to share their stories.
Matt Harding — Google review
Be prepared to do walk steep stairs downwards and upwards from Chapel towards Chapman pool.
Priya Sharma — Google review
A bit of a trek in but definitely well worth the walk. This chapel is small and has a heavy sense of history about itself. An amazing place to visit and a welcome place for some relief from the cold and the wind
Benn Gladden — Google review
Beautiful and ancient place of prayer. Walk there, on a pilgrimage if you like, and stop by for a quiet moment
Alastair Murray — Google review
Little chapel where you can see and feel history. There are plenty of ancient graffiti on the walls and the place seems to be very well looked after by local volunteers. There isn’t much parking, but this contributes to the peace and tranquillity all around. There are plenty of walks in the area and no toilets available to speak of. Furthermore the views from up there are simply stunning. There is a Coast Guard watchtower right next to the chapel, which is open to visitors free of charge. The two retired volunteer workers inside are always very welcoming.
The Silk Road — Google review
Wonderfully different way to start your Easter Sunday, The normally empty chapel has a special once-a-year 6am service (for those with good alarm clocks). You can then see the sun rising outside.
Gordon Ball — Google review
Stunning scenery, quaint old chapel 👍. Lots of steep paths to get to one place to another
Alexa B — Google review
Great views all along the coast. Perfect for pictures. Watch out for the really steep steps.
The Old Forge Antiques Centre is a fantastic treasure trove of various items, ranging from LPs to vintage clothing. It offers great value for money and is in excellent condition. If you enjoy exploring and finding unique pieces, this place is perfect for you. With its vast selection and diverse stock, there's something to catch everyone's eye. From a wide range of antiques to ornaments, old toys, garden items, and furniture, this large shop has it all.
Great customer service. What a place as well, interesting building with interesting items for sale.Will be going again in the future.
Craig Eldridge — Google review
Certainly worth a look if you're in the area. All sorts to see and very reasonably priced. Picked up a nice Art Deco style mirror for £10.
Chris Kinnersley — Google review
Nice little Antique shop to have a quiet browse.
Kate Neale — Google review
Great Aladins den of everything from lp's to vintage clothing. I bought a round glass topped bistro table which was great value and in good condition. Well worth going if you enjoy a good rummage!
Oonagh Langrishe — Google review
Really big shop .. everything from ornaments, old toys, garden ìtems to furniture. Well worth a browse..
Elaine Viola — Google review
An absolute rabbit warren of a place, so much to catch the eye, lots to take in and a wide variety of stock. Could have bought far more but need room for wife and kids in the car home
Alex Wordsworth — Google review
Amazing antiques shop full of many varied pieces from old games and vintage clothes to centuries old weaponry and 20th century European signs. So much in between as well, plus the staff were lovely. Just sad the suede jacket was too big
William Foster — Google review
Large antique shop with lots of rooms, definitely worth a visit. Friendly and very helpful staff. Extremely happy with my purchase.
Vintage shop — Google review
Surprisingly extensive antiques shop. Much larger than the shop front. Worth a visit as the stock changes frequently. You never know what little gem you are going to pick up
Chapmans Pool is a small cove on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, England. It's one of the best beaches on the Jurassic Coast and perfect for those looking to get away from it all. The bay is peaceful and beautiful, with stunning sea views.
Let's just say I had a bit of an adventure and met brilliant people, and found a gem of a place, lots of different walks to continue enjoying 🦋
Caroline Evans — Google review
Oh wow what an absolute gem of a find, very steep and muddy to climb down, so tie your wellies on, but well worth it, as the views and fossil finds are amazing. Absolutely not suitable for prams (yes I actually saw a mother down there with one) stuck!
Karen Chalmers — Google review
Beautiful place. Great views walking down to the beach. Saw many ammonite fossils on the beach.
Free parking nearby (Parking Renscombe)
The walk can be a bit intense when wet.
Tim S — Google review
Well worth the steep but short hike down from Renscombe Car Park.
We went down a pretty step narrow path, there is a rope there which you would need if the ground was wet. I’m sure there is a longer easier route if you are less mobile/abled
Once on the beach/cove it was littered with hundreds and hundreds or fossils.
Edward Wing — Google review
It was very hot day, walking down was fine, but up was quite a challenge. We had amazing time there. It was worth it and surely we are looking to get back here.
Stefan Lizon — Google review
Absolutely beautiful place to visit but that walk to and from is a killer so take note before visiting
Marlski J — Google review
Chapman pool is beautiful, lovely walk & worth the visit.
Leanne Pavey — Google review
Great little car park, well done shame about the height restriction. Quite A steep walk down, but worth it when you see the view and there are fossils everywhere. Not for those with disabilities or prams or very young children (you'll have to carry them)but beautiful and totally worth a visit even in the rain. A beautiful place to swim ❤️
Jane Burke — Google review
Beautiful, stunning, amazing, jaw dropping, a feeling of being small in a wonderful world🌍...this is Chapman's Pool....but i can honestly say the walk from the car park is pretty flat.... possibly boring 🤣. But when you open the gate at the end of the field!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get ready to have your breath taken away.... And you see Chapman's Pool for the first time!!!! ...(GULP)....Go and have a look......!
The small but delightful museum, The Purbeck Stone Museum, provides a wealth of fascinating details regarding the local stone industry's historical background. The amiable and well-informed personnel offer valuable insights and guidance to visitors. It is certainly worthwhile to spend some time exploring this charming establishment for a brief yet informative encounter with the regional stone trade's past.
Lovely little museum with lots of information about the history of the local stone industry. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Definitely worth a quick visit!
Oli Lane — Google review
Charming and informative museum with helpful and knowledgeable hosts.