Jurassic Coast Walk | Kimmeridge Bay to Tyneham Deserted Village

This 12 mile circular walk from Kimmeridge to Tyneham Deserted Village is packed with beautiful coastal views, archaeological sites, historical villages, geological marvels, military firing ranges and so much more. 

Walk description: 

Following some brief introductions and safety talks we can then begin our walk - there will be plenty of time for everyone to get to know each other as we progress through the day.

From our starting point at the Sea view car park we will head east along the Hardy Way and Smedmore Hill to Swyre Head, the highest point of the Purbeck Hills at 208m above sea level. Here we'll access fantastic views along the coastline and Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The path then drops steeply to join the South West Coastal Path at Rope Lake Head, where we then turn west and follow the tops of the cliffs to Kimmeridge Bay. There are public toilets in the Bay, and if the tide is out, we will take a look at some of the hidden fossils found within rockpools. 

Pressing on, we'll pass an active oil well, with a 'nodding donkey' clearly visible from the path. We then enter into the Lulworth Ranges, a Military Firing Range, though this will be open and very safe. The path undulates with some steep ascents and descents as we approach Worbarrow Bay and tackle the steepest climb for the day up to Flower's Barrow Fort, an early Iron Age hillfort that was taken over by the Romans when they invaded. 

With most of the days climbing behind us, we follow an open chalky track along Whiteway Hill, before dropping down into Tyneham Village. The settlement was evacuated in 1943 during WWII and has been deserted ever since; all buildings are accessible to look around, including the church, school, and numerous houses. There are also public toilets here.

After a good look around and lunch break, we will continue with our walk, heading south and climbing back up to join the South West Coastal Path. Here we will retrace our steps for half a mile until reaching a junction at Tyneham Cap. This new trail takes us along a prominent ridge path offering mind-blowing views east over Kimmeridge and the mornings route. It will also take us directly back to the car park and the end of the days walk.

Whether you attend alone or with friends/family, you'll soon get to know everyone in the group and enjoy a stress-free day.

Walk length: 

Approx. 4/6hrs for 12 miles 

Date and time: 

Sunday 24th May 2020 | Start at 9:45am - meet around 9:30am

Start/finish location: 

OS Explorer OL 15 GR 919 800

Getting to the Sea View car park: 

The car park sits above Kimmerige Bay and Village on the junction of two roads. If you find yourself joining the toll road into the Bay, please turn around and head back up the hill. If you Google 'Sea View Car Park, Kimmeridge' yo will be able to access the car park easily.

Toilet stops:

There are no toilets on at the start of walk. There are however public toilets at Kimmeridge Bay and Tyneham Village. Wild wee's are also welcome.

Media: 

By signing up to a walk with us you are giving us permission to take photos for promotional use across our website and social media pages. If you specifically do not want media taken with you in it, please do feel able to get in touch. We encourage you to take photos during your walk but ask you to be sensitive to other members. Also, we'd love to have a copy of any you are particularly proud of so we share them too!

Accidents and Incidents:

All of our team are qualified first aiders and will carry an appropriate first aid kit. Should you be involved in an accident or 

become injured during the walk it is important that you notify our staff as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let a member of staff know. Please use the booking form and the paper discplaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about.

Due to the nature of walking in an outdoor area there is often a level of risk. You will need to take responsibility for your own actions, health and involvement during the walk and will be expected to exercise judgement based on your fitness levels as to whether you can complete the walk. Any queries please get in touch. You will also be expected to abide by any safety instructions and decisions made by our staff and have a duty to exercise judgement regarding your own personal safety and that of other members of the group. If you choose to ignore safety instructions we cannot be held responsible for the consequences.

Cars are left at owners own risk.

Weather:

The weather can play a major role in our enjoyment of a day's walking, and in some cases can present a real danger. We always review the weather forecast in detail the day before and will send you an email if we have to change any plans. This is however only likely if we feel heading out will put us at real risk. Please do check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! If you need a kit list or gear advice, please get in touch.

Please note that the walks are weather dependant. Should the forecast present any danger, we will endeavour to review our plans and offer alternative routes.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk other than a few spare snacks and water if needed in an emergency. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. You are welcome to buy food and top up on water in the villages we pass through (if any) so long as everyone is happy to stop. If you have any questions or need any help/advice with what food to bring, please feel able to get in touch.

No Drug and Alcohol Policy:

Spend More Time In The WILD has been set up in order to inspire and motivate followers to head outside for the benefit of mental and physical health. We are committed to providing a safe, healthy and secure space for anyone walking out a journey of freedom from addiction and substance abuse and as such have a strict no drug or alcohol policy on our walks and camping events.

Cancellations:

By Us: In the rare case that we have to cancel and event, you will be notified by email and offered a full refund.

By You: We require 14 days cancellation notice prior to your scheduled arrival, otherwise we will charge you cancellation fee as below.

- 50% of your total amount will be charged if you notify us about your cancellation or any changes by 14 days to 48 hrs before your scheduled arrival.

-100% of of your total amount will be charged if you do not notify us about your cancellation or any changes within 48 hrs.

If you have any questions regarding the walk or booking, please get in touch via the 'contact' page.