Studland - Old Harry Rocks - Ballad Down - Studland

Joe Jackson

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Old Harry Rocks is a spectacular place to visit and this walk takes you along the South West Coast Path to the best viewpoint for the rocks. It starts off close to the sea at Studland and passes some World War Two remains en route to Old Harry Rocks. The concrete structure resembles a stretched-out pill-box with a narrow slit that allows distant views over the sea towards the Isle of Wight. Access inside is allowed to take a moment to think what it might have been like during the war.

The route follows the clifftop to the east until you see the unmistakable Old Harry Rocks with their natural sea arch and The Pinnacles further down the coast. The route continues past the rocks and gains more height up to the top of Ballad Down, which offers the walker spectacular views over Poole Harbour to Brownsea Island and also Swanage to the south. The Isle of Wight is clearly seen from this vantage point, as are many other features.

The return takes you along a direct path down the hill back towards Studland, but not without one last stop-off. The church in Studland dates back to the Norman period and is a beauty. Its square tower in the centre of the church gives it more of a castle look rather than a monastic building. Do take a look inside as the stonework is beautiful - a truly unique building for the area.

England - South West England - Dorset - Studland