Purbeck sun, sea, sand and trains

**Please note earlier start time than usual at 0930**

This is a circular walk through the delights of Swanage and the Purbeck coast and hills.

We start the walk in Studland village at the National Trust car park next door to the Bankes Arms pub. We make our way along the coast path to Old Harry’s Rocks where we can admire these giant chalk boulders that have been created naturally by the erosion of the sea.

We will follow the rugged coast path to Swanage where there is an opportunity for a rest room break and the chance to buy an ice cream if you wish. We will pass the famous lookout station at Peveril point and then proceed uphill to Durlston Head. The castle was built in 1886 by a stone mason John Mowlem. We will learn about this wonderful historic castle and have a chance to admire the famous Durlston globe. We will proceed pass Tilly Whim caves to the Anvil lighthouse which was built in 1881 and was automated in 1991, and take a short rest at Dancing Ledge where there might be the opportunity to spot a few rare sea birds.

We will then continue inland to Langton Matravers, past the Putlake adventure area and into the purbeck hills. We will cross the swanage railway which is hosting a diesel gala this weekend. If we are lucky, we will be able to admire these beautiful engines (including the "Class 50 Thunderer") up close as they pass us on their way to Swanage. There is a steep climb with steps to the obelisk at Ulwell before we return back to our starting point at Studland.

We will be going for a light beverage and refreshment at the Manor Farm tea rooms for tea, coffee, cakes and cream tea.

Toilet stops: Studland village, Ulwell and Swanage

Total distance: 23km

Elevation: 705m

Difficulty: Strenuous

Start time: 0930am

Finish time: 4pm

Type: circular

Please note:

This is a strenuous walk with a total ascent of 700m. Please be prepared for multiple hill climbs. We will be passing through fields with deep pot holes so care is needed. A walking stick is recommended. We will also be passing through active quarries with potential for unexploded ordnance so please stay on the marked trails at all times. There is one railway crossing of a busy commuter railway and one stile that is "seesaw" like. These will be pointed out on the walk.