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Walks, Pubs and Places of Interest from Across Dorset
Walk
Old Harry Rocks Circular Walk
...Breathtaking views of the Jurassic coast and unique rock formations await you on this circular walk...
Distance:
Time:
Difficulty:
Start Point:
3.5 Miles
1 Hour 30 Mins
Easy
South Beach Car Park Swanage BH19 3AU
Pub/Restaurant:
1. From the car park walk down the road past the Bankes Arms pub and turn left by the public toilets on to the path signed for Old Harry. Look out for rectangular earthworks in the wood near Old Harry - the remains of fields used by Celtic farmers.
2. From Old Harry follow the coast path up a gentle rise, keeping well back from the sheer cliff edge.
3. At the first gate, keep to the cliff top path. There's a good variety of chalk grassland flowers in the short turf, but you'll need to go down on hands and knees to best enjoy them. Look back to enjoy a fine view of the Pinnacle stack.
Peregrine Falcons can sometimes be seen near Old Harry Rocks
4. Go through a farm gate and head straight on past earthworks and along Ballard Down.
5. Just before the stone bench marked 'Rest and be thankful', where the main paths cross, turn right down the hill towards Studland.
6. Follow the road down through the Glebeland estate.
7. Go straight on at the crossroads, following the sign for the church. On your right is the village cross, which was erected in 1976. The carvings depict a range of images both ancient and modern.
8. At the end of the lane, go through the gate into the churchyard. Pass the church on your right then turn immediately right and follow the footpath back to your starting point.