Worth Matravers, Swanage and Chapman's Pool Circuit

This 13 mile circular is one of our most popular WILD walks, and it is easy to see why, boasting some of the best coastal walking available in the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Walk description:

Our walk begins in the main car park at Worth Matravers (see below for details). Following some brief introductions and safety talks we'll head out to follow in the footsteps of a medieval priest along an ancient track known as the Priests Way. The route passes between quarries and across open fields with spectacular views along the way. 3 miles of level walking later and we'll find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Victorian coastal town of Swanage, a popular tourist destination that once thrived as a small port and fishing village. Here there will be the opportunity to stop for wander up and down the pier and take in the views towards Old Harry's Rocks. Swanage also marks the point where we join the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site and pick up the South West Coastal Path. 

Once we are all together, we'll head off along the Coastal Path, passing through the 320-acre Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve, which is home to Durlston Head Castle, Anvil Point Lighthouse and the Tilly Whim Caves. The park also has a mosaic of habitats hosting a wide range of species, such as sea-cliffs, downs, ancient meadows, hedgerows, woodland, and dry-stone walls – each with their characteristic plants and animals. These include 33 species of breeding butterfly, over 250 species of bird recorded, 500 wildflowers, 500 moths and thousands of other invertebrates.

Having pulled ourselves away from the range of interesting statues and sites of interest, we continue to follow the coastal path via Dancing Ledge (so called because at certain stages of the tide when the waves wash over the horizontal surface, the surface undulations cause the water to bob about making the ledge appear to dance), the disused Seacombe Cliff Quarries, Winspit Inlet, and the St Aldhelm's (St Alban's Head) Chapel and Lookout Station. Don't be fooled by the easy start to the day, as this stretch has numerous ups and downs. However, our walks are completely stress-free and we ensure the pace is one which everyone can manage.

Our final climb for the day to the top of the famous cliffs near St Aldhelm's Head will leave us puffing and panting but thoroughly rewarded as we look out over the natural cove of Chapman's Pool, perhaps one of the most spectacular coves along this stretch of coastline. We can take a break at the Royal Marines Association memorial garden at Emmetts Hill, before pressing on along the final few miles inland back to Worth Matravers and the car park. Depending on our finish time, there may be the opportunity for a drink at the Square and Compass Pub (opposite the car park) before departing home.

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. 6/7hrs for 13 miles

Date and time:

Saturday 6th August 2022 | Start at 9:30am - meet around 9:15am.

Start/finish location: 

OS Explorer OL15 GR 974 777

Getting to Worth Matravers car park: 

You'll likely reach Worth Matravers having come through either Kingston or Langton Matravers on the B3069. 

If coming from Kingston, you'll pass the Swanworth Quarries on the right before entering into the village. The car park will be on your right and is clearly signed. If you reach the Square and Compass Pub then you have gone too far.

If coming from Langton Matravers, you'll pass the Keates Quarries on your left. Continue along the road until you reach and Square and Compass on your right, then take the road to your right that runs along the other side of the pub. The car park is 100m up the hill on the left. 

Please note: the best post code to use is BH19 3LE.

Toilet stops:

There are public toilets at the car park in Worth Matravers and in Swanage, but none after that. Wild wee's are the next best thing!

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:

Abbie and our walk leaders are all qualified first aiders and will always 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 Abbie or other walk leaders as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken. Should you feel unwell or require first aid please let them know. Please use the booking form and the paper disclaimer you will be given on the day as an opportunity to raise anything you feel the walk leader should know about. Abbie is also a qualified and insured Mountain Leader.

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 us 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 the owner's own risk.

Weather:

Our walks are weather dependant. 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 check the forecast for yourself and come prepared for whatever the weather! You should come fully kitted out for a full day's hike in the walking area.

Food and Drink:

We will not be providing any food or drink on this walk except emergency rations. Please ensure you have adequate food and drink for the day. 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 an 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 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. You will be supplied with a contact number for emergency use on the day of the walk in your booking package.