Swanage to Studland Coast Path
Dorset Pictures
The coast path from Swanage (visible in the distance), past Old Harry Rocks and on to Studland, Shell Bay and Sandbanks ferry, Purbeck Isle, Dorset.
This awesome Coast Path walk from Swanage beach to Studland's Bankes Arms pub takes a from 2-4 hours depending on walking speed and time hanging out to enjoy the view. A bus back to Swanage or on to Bournemouth can be found in Studland village (pop. 14 in wintertime) every half hour.
Continuing to walk along the three mile stretch of fine sand that constitutes Studland Beach and Shell Bay to the Sandbanks ferry or bus stop will add another hour or so to journey time.
The start of the coast path from Swanage.
Not exactly clearly signposted, or maybe we slipped onto the wrong trail (though this entry was marked on an Ordnance Survey Map). Never mind. The path starts at the far north end of Swanage Bay, just past the last groyne (wooden fences that keep sand in place) The groyne is visible in the photo.
The first view going up to Ballard Down.
Looking back down to Swanage.
Over the top and Old Harry Rocks, Shell Bay and a distant Bournemouth spring into view.
Over the top and Old Harry, Shell Bay and a distant Bournemouth spring into view. Hikers who head west (to the left) will enjoy a superb, relaxing ridge walk a couple of miles to Corfe Castle, from where they can take a train or bus back to Swanage.
Old Harry Rocks and jet-ski visitor from Swanage.
Old Harry Rocks homebase. And no, we don't suggest you try that walk. It would end in tears.
Next, Studland and Shell Bay photos.
Old Harry Rocks are chalk sea stacks at Handfast Point, Purbeck Isle (which is not an island, but is the origin of Purbeck Stone), Dorset. They are 2.5 miles (4kms) from Swanage, a short walk to Studland and are part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
The origin of the name may refer to the Devil - Old Harry as he used to be known - or a notorious Poole pirate, Harry Paye.
Map of Studland | Map of Southwest Dorset and coast path
Corfe Castle | Kimmeridge | Studland | Studland beaches
Weymouth | Lyme Regis | Bournemouth | Sandbanks
UK Tourist Map | England Guide | Dorset Pictures | South West Coast Path
