Great short walk that provides spectacular coastal views, rocky bays, and an insight into the history of the area
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Distance: 5 kms (3 miles)
Total Ascent: 170m
Difficulty: Moderate
Seacombe rock ledge
From Swanage take the A351 to Corfe and on the outskirts of the town take the left hand fork B3069 to Langton Matravers and Kingston. After the sign to Acton take the next left turn to Worth Matravers. At the Square & Compass pub turn sharp right up the hill and the car park is about 150m on the left. The car park has an honesty box for a modest car park fee.
Exit the car park and turn right back down the road and at the T-junction by the pub turn right. Take the left fork to go below the duck pond onto Pikes Lane then take the second left turn in front of a row of terraced cottages. At the end of the cottages go through the gate onto the footpath which at first goes between hedges then across a field and finally the track known as Winspit Bottom that takes you all the way down to the coast. Once you reach Winspit note where the South West Coast Path crosses before continuing to the ruins and the caves of the now disused Winspit Quarry. The rocky ledge down by the sea is navigable to the left with care but our suggestion is to wait until the next bay at Seacombe.
Pick up the coastal path heading east and climb the stone steps up on to the cliff top. Surveying the sides around Winspit you will see carved into the hills an extensive set of well preserved terraces known as Strip Lynchets which were created for medieval agriculture and cultivation. With spectacular views of the limestone cliffs to Durlston in the distance continue on the coast path passing further examples of quarrying and then you will arrive at the next valley known as Seacombe. As you approach Seacombe an Allan-Williams WWII turret (photograph left) can be seen on the far side of the valley, designed for one man and a machine gun to protect the bay. After descending the stone steps, instead of turning left back inland in the direction of Worth Matravers it is recommended to make the short detour down to the sea by following the line of the very small stream. The rocks down at Seacombe provide a beautiful and tranquil spot to enjoy your packed lunch or a flask of coffee. See if you can spot the Ammonites in the rocks on the way down too!
After leaving Seacombe head inland up the valley, crossing left over the small wooden bridge and following the footpath as it climbs gradually with the steepest section ahead as you cross into the next field. After completing the set of stone steps at the top, exit the gate and continue the more gentle climb across the field to the stone wall ahead. Upon reaching the wall you will now see the village of Worth Matravers. It is easier to take the contour route by following the wall to the road and then turn left to the pub. Even if you don’t fancy a pint and a pasty, the pub has a small museum housing a collection of fossils and old quarrying artefacts. The car park is just up the road from the pub.
The White House - Swanage 