The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Worth Matravers

If the view from Studland Hill is a grand "reveal," the view from Rollington Hill is more of a slow, scenic immersion into the Purbeck countryside. While Studland Hill (part of the Nine Barrow Down ridge) looks at Swanage from the north/northeast, Rollington Hill sits a bit further west, closer to Corfe Castle. From here, you’re looking down the "barrel" of the valley toward the sea.

There are a couple of theories behind the name "Dancing Ledge": Some say the name comes from how the waves appear to "dance" over the rock's surface at certain tide levels. Another theory suggests the ledge is the perfect size for a ballroom, though visitors attempting to walk across its uneven surface would find this an ankle-twisting endeavor.

Dancing Ledge is a flat, natural rock platform on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, located on the Jurassic Coast near the villages of Langton Matravers and Worth Matravers. This historical quarry site is now a popular beauty spot for walkers, climbers, and swimmers. There are a couple of theories behind the name "Dancing Ledge": Some say the name comes from how the waves appear to "dance" over the rock's surface at certain tide levels. Another theory suggests the ledge is the perfect size for a ballroom, though visitors attempting to walk across its uneven surface would find this an ankle-twisting endeavor. Quarrying: During the 18th and 19th centuries, the ledge was a crucial hub for quarrying Purbeck stone, which was used in prestigious buildings, including the reconstruction of London after the Great Fire. The stone was lowered from the upper cliffs to small, flat-bottomed ships that could moor right up to the straight drop-off of the ledge. Smuggling: The busy quarrying traffic and numerous small caves also made Dancing Ledge a smuggler's haven. Contraband was often taken to nearby Spyway Farm for storage. Swimming pool: In the early 1900s, a small swimming pool was blasted out of the rock for pupils from a nearby preparatory school to learn how to swim. Author Ian Fleming, a former pupil, reportedly did not enjoy the compulsory cold dips.

The South West Coast Path is England's longest National Trail, stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset. This epic route, originally used by coastguards to patrol for smugglers, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience through stunning scenery, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to charming fishing villages and diverse wildlife. While the full trail takes several weeks, it can be walked in sections.

Seacombe Beach, also known as Seacombe Sands, is a sandy, dog-friendly beach in South Devon located on the coast path between Prawle Point and the Salcombe-Kingsbridge Estuary, accessible from Gara Rock. It's a secluded spot with no facilities, but offers good opportunities for dog walking and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. ey Features Sandy Beach: Seacombe Beach offers a good stretch of sand, especially at low tide. Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome at the beach year-round. No Facilities: There are no toilets or other facilities at the beach. Tidal Risk: Be aware that some areas of the beach can be cut off at high tide.

There is a slight climb down to the pool but doable, just watch your footing.

very clean and free of charge

View of dancing ledge