Purbeck Hills, Dorset
The strategic importance of the ridge has long been recognised with its commanding height and proximity to Poole Harbour and the south coast. Iron Age , Roman and Saxon archaeological sites abound, including Nine Barrow Down. At Corfe Castle the hills are broken twice and a steep round hill has been left where once there was a medieval castle. The castle once guarded the only easy route through the hills, but it was destroyed in the 17th century during the English Civil War .
There are areas of the ridge round the village of Tyneham, near Lulworth, that were closed to the public as they were in use by the army as a firing range. This protected the land from any damage from farming and development. These areas are now natural reserves. Ballard Down on the eastern end of the ridge is a National Trust nature reserve that's very important for its calcareous grassland habitat. The range of chalk stacks along the eastern cliff, including the famous Old Harry , are part of Ballard Down.
The Purbeck area is very popular with walkers and many paths exist there. These allow a variety of walks from coastal treks to ambles through the charming villages with their cottages made from the local Purbeck-stone. The southern hills were heavily quarried and this now helps to create a unique character and to attract a rich variety of wildlife. Many of the old quarry sites can be accessed along the cliff, the most notable of which are Dancing Ledge, Seacombe and Windspit. Many rare species of flower, animal and bird are there to be seen by those who walk along the hills and the world renowned Jurassic Coast . On a clear day the views from the south hills take in Southampton and the Isle of Wight to the east, and Weymouth and Portland to the west.
The northern part of the Purbeck Hills give views of most of central Dorset, as well as stunning views of Poole Harbour. To the north of the Purbeck Hills, and bordering Poole Harbour, there is Studland Heath and Rempstone Forest. Studand Heath is host to several species of lizard and snake including Britains only poisonous snake, the Adder.
More British Natural features?
Other Dorset Naturals
Durdle Door
Jurassic Coast
Portland Bill
Old Harry Rocks
Lyme Bay
Cranborne Chase
Lulworth Cove
Chesil Beach
Poole Harbour
Lyme Bay
Brownsea Island
River Axe
Golden Cap
Blackmore Vale
Marshwood Vale
Studland
Melbury Beacon and Melbury Down
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