Things to do in Purbeck

A model of the 17th century village with working water mill, situated in an acre of gardens. Courtyard tearoom and shop.

Large 11th century castle that now lies in ruins since it was slighted in the English Civil War. It still cuts a majestic form dominating the village below

The magical Blue Pool is unique attraction in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck. Set in peaceful woodland between Wareham and Corfe Castle this apparently natural beauty spot began life as a clay pit in the 17th century. It is minute particles of this clay that gives the pool its ever changing colours from greys to greens to blues. There are several walks around the lakes and woodland along with a tearoom and gift shop.

Winspit is an old disused quarry on the coastal cliffs near Worth Matravers. The stone from this quarry was highly prized and used in various prestigious buildings in London. Some of the caverns are still open to the public but many have been closed for safety and conservation reasons.

Large flat ledge and pool at the base of Jurassic Coast cliffs near Swanage. The platform is man-made, the result of quarrying

Dorset's premier standard gauge preserved steam railway. Operates between Swanage and Norden, through the Isle of Purbeck.

A 280 acre countryside paradise, consisting of sea-cliffs, coastal limestone downland, haymeadows, hedgerows and woodland. 33 species of butterfly, over 250 species of bird, 500 wildflowers, 500 moths and thousands of invertebrates.

The museum features exhibits from the local area from prehistoric times to the present day. It also has a collection dedicated to the life of Lawrence of Arabia

Pair of impressive chalk sea stacks located off the end of Handfast Point near Swanage. Named after local pirate, Harry Paye