Attractions and Places To See around North Poorton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around North Poorton include historical sites and natural landscapes within this tranquil Dorset hamlet. The area is characterized by deep valleys, wooded slopes, and grassy knolls, offering an unspoilt environment. Notable local features include the Burcombe Hill Hillfort and the historic churches of St Peter and St Mary Magdalene. Visitors can also access a wider array of attractions in the surrounding Dorset region.
Best attractions and places to see around North Poorton
- The most popular attractions is West Bay Harbour, a settlement known for its harbour and position on the Jurassic Coast. It features a thriving fishing harbour and impressive cliffs, with a history of development to prevent silting.
- Another must-see spot is Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point, a natural monument and the second highest point in Dorset. This location offers panoramic views over the Dorset countryside and features an Iron Age hillfort.
- Visitors also love Frome Valley Trail, a trail that forms part of National Cycle Route 26. It is predominantly off-road and traffic-free, offering a quiet route for cycling.
- North Poorton is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic trails. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient hillforts to coastal settlements.
- The attractions around North Poorton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and over 15 photos shared.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
West Bay Harbour
Highlight • Settlement
Today, West Bay is a thriving fishing harbour popular with tourists. With a wonderful beach and impressive cliffs, it's well worth visiting. It should be noted that it's part of an eroding landscape and cliff falls have occurred in recent years so always respect warnings and signage.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Colmer's Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Frome Valley Trail
Highlight • Trail
In Notton there is a field prone to flooding which will rarely get iced over in the winter. Local kids have been known to skate there.
Tip by
Thorncombe Beacon: Smugglers' Song, Beacon, and Watering Well
Highlight (Segment) • Summit
A Smugglers song by Rudyard Kipling
IF you wake at midnight, and hear a horse's feet,
Don't go drawing back the blind, or looking in the street,
Them that ask no questions isn't told a lie.
Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by.
Five and twenty ponies,
Trotting through the dark -
Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk.
Laces for a lady; letters for a spy,
Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by!
Running round the woodlump if you chance to find
Little barrels, roped and tarred, all full of brandy-wine,
Don't you shout to come and look, nor use 'em for your play.
Put the brishwood back again - and they'll be gone next day !
If you see the stable-door setting open wide;
If you see a tired horse lying down inside;
If your mother mends a coat cut about and tore;
If the lining's wet and warm - don't you ask no more !
If you meet King George's men, dressed in blue and red,
You be careful what you say, and mindful what is said.
If they call you " pretty maid," and chuck you 'neath the chin,
Don't you tell where no one is, nor yet where no one's been !
Knocks and footsteps round the house - whistles after dark -
You've no call for running out till the house-dogs bark.
Trusty's here, and Pincher's here, and see how dumb they lie
They don't fret to follow when the Gentlemen go by !
'If You do as you've been told, 'likely there's a chance,
You'll be give a dainty doll, all the way from France,
With a cap of Valenciennes, and a velvet hood -
A present from the Gentlemen, along 'o being good !
Five and twenty ponies,
Trotting through the dark -
Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk.
Them that asks no questions isn't told a lie -
Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by !
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around North Poorton.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
From the trig point at Pilsdon Pen summit, you get spectacular, wide-open views across Dorset. Looking south, the eye sweeps over the lush farmlands and rolling hills of the Marshwood Vale, extending all the way down to Bridport and the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast.
0
0
End of the Esplanade past the rocks on the beach is great at sunset
0
0
Quaint little fishing harbour with eateries and places to sit and enjoy the views
0
0
The watering well. Man made well with rocks and piping, I imagine that this is a watering spot for the wildlife in the area. mainly deer. clear and clean water.
0
0
Thorncombe Beacon is a hill between Bridport and Charmouth in Dorset, England. It lies about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) west of Eype Mouth and 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) east of Seatown. It is in the south-west part of Symondsbury parish close to the parish of Chideock. It is 157 metres (515 ft) high, compared to 191 metres (627 ft) for Golden Cap which lies about 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) to the west. It forms part of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site and the South West Coast Path and the Monarch's Way skirt the hilltop. The hill is owned by the National Trust. Three bowl barrows to the north-east of the summit constitute a scheduled monument. In 1588, a chain of beacons was built along the south coast to warn of the approach of the Spanish Armada, which had been sighted off Plymouth, and Thorncombe Beacon was one of these.
1
0
3 little things to see on this section. A Smugglers song by Rudyard Kipling IF you wake at midnight, and hear a horse's feet, Don't go drawing back the blind, or looking in the street, Them that ask no questions isn't told a lie. Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by. Five and twenty ponies, Trotting through the dark - Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk. Laces for a lady; letters for a spy, Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by! Running round the woodlump if you chance to find Little barrels, roped and tarred, all full of brandy-wine, Don't you shout to come and look, nor use 'em for your play. Put the brishwood back again - and they'll be gone next day ! If you see the stable-door setting open wide; If you see a tired horse lying down inside; If your mother mends a coat cut about and tore; If the lining's wet and warm - don't you ask no more ! If you meet King George's men, dressed in blue and red, You be careful what you say, and mindful what is said. If they call you " pretty maid," and chuck you 'neath the chin, Don't you tell where no one is, nor yet where no one's been ! Knocks and footsteps round the house - whistles after dark - You've no call for running out till the house-dogs bark. Trusty's here, and Pincher's here, and see how dumb they lie They don't fret to follow when the Gentlemen go by ! 'If You do as you've been told, 'likely there's a chance, You'll be give a dainty doll, all the way from France, With a cap of Valenciennes, and a velvet hood - A present from the Gentlemen, along 'o being good ! Five and twenty ponies, Trotting through the dark - Brandy for the Parson, 'Baccy for the Clerk. Them that asks no questions isn't told a lie - Watch the wall my darling while the Gentlemen go by !
2
0
The summit of this hill represents the second highest point in Dorset, and from here, you'll have breathtaking panoramic views. At the top, there was an Iron Age hillfort, which was excavated in the mid-20th century.
0
0
As djcwey2402 says this is a much easier going now and even a few less gates. Used in winter after a bit of rain and it was fine - it would have involved a bit of walking in the old state.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around North Poorton?
North Poorton itself has historical significance, including the ruins of the old parish church of St Peter and the newer St Mary Magdalene church, built in 1861–62. You can also find the poignant Posy Tree, marking a mass grave of plague victims. Nearby, the Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point features an Iron Age hillfort, and Thorncombe Beacon was part of the 1588 Armada warning system and has bowl barrows.
Are there any natural monuments or viewpoints offering scenic views near North Poorton?
Absolutely. Pilsdon Pen Summit and Trig Point, the second highest point in Dorset, offers breathtaking panoramic views over the countryside, including Golden Cap and the ocean on clear days. Colmer's Hill, a distinctive conical hill, also provides expansive views over the Marshwood Vale. Within North Poorton, Burcombe Hill Hillfort offers commanding views over the surrounding landscape.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near North Poorton?
The area around North Poorton is ideal for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the moderate 'Askerswell & Eggardon Hill loop from Powerstock' or the easy 'Kingcombe and Toller Porcorum loop'. Cyclists can enjoy the Frome Valley Trail, which is part of National Cycle Route 26 and predominantly off-road. For more options, check out the guides for Hiking around North Poorton, Running Trails around North Poorton, and MTB Trails around North Poorton.
Are there family-friendly attractions or walks suitable for children near North Poorton?
Yes, there are options for families. West Bay Harbour is a popular spot with a beach, offering a lively atmosphere and impressive cliffs that children often enjoy. While North Poorton itself offers tranquil walks through scenic valleys, the nearby Jurassic Fun Centre in Burton Bradstock provides an indoor option for swimming and leisure, suitable for families.
What are some dog-friendly walking trails around North Poorton?
Many of the natural trails and countryside walks around North Poorton are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the 'unspoilt and beautiful' landscape with your canine companion. The area's grassy knolls, wooded slopes, and deep valleys provide ample space for walks. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and check local signage for any specific requirements or restrictions.
What is the best time of year to visit North Poorton for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring North Poorton's outdoor attractions and trails. The 'unspoilt and beautiful' landscape, characterized by grassy knolls and wooded slopes, is particularly vibrant during these seasons. Autumn also provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage. While winter can be tranquil, some trails might be muddy or subject to flooding, especially the Frome Valley Trail.
Where can I find coastal attractions or beaches near North Poorton?
North Poorton is conveniently located to access the Dorset coast. West Bay Harbour, part of the Jurassic Coast, is a thriving fishing harbour with a wonderful beach and impressive cliffs, located about 1.5 miles south of Bridport. Other nearby coastal options include Seatown Beach (7.4 miles away) and Charmouth Beach (9.9 miles away), both offering classic coastal experiences.
Are there any notable gardens or estates to visit in the vicinity of North Poorton?
Yes, the region boasts some impressive estates and gardens. Mapperton House and Gardens, an impressive estate, is located quite close to North Poorton. Further afield, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, about 8.5 miles away in Weymouth, is a noted tourist attraction known for its unique plant collections.
What are the parking options like for attractions around North Poorton?
While North Poorton itself is a small hamlet, parking availability varies by attraction. For popular spots like West Bay Harbour, designated parking areas are available for visitors. For natural sites like Pilsdon Pen or Colmer's Hill, you may find smaller car parks or roadside parking at trailheads. It's advisable to check specific parking information for each destination before your visit.
What is the general appeal of North Poorton for visitors?
Visitors are drawn to North Poorton for its tranquil escape and 'unspoilt and beautiful' natural landscape. The area is characterized by deep, narrow valleys, grassy knolls, and wooded slopes, offering a peaceful environment for walks and appreciating nature. Its blend of historical sites, such as the ancient churches and Burcombe Hill Hillfort, combined with easy access to wider Dorset attractions, makes it appealing for those seeking both serenity and exploration.
Can I find any unique natural features or wildlife spotting opportunities in North Poorton?
North Poorton is nestled in scenic valleys formed by the River Mangerton, offering a rich natural environment. The area's wooded slopes and grassy knolls are ideal for appreciating nature. On Colmer's Hill, with a little luck, you might spot rabbits, deer, and buzzards. The watering well at Thorncombe Beacon is also noted as a spot for local wildlife, mainly deer.
Are there any museums or cultural institutions nearby to learn about Dorset's history?
Yes, for those interested in the region's history and art, the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery is located in Dorchester, approximately 11.6 miles from North Poorton. This museum offers comprehensive insights into the rich heritage of Dorset.
Most popular attractions around North Poorton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
