On Door Step.
Walking: There are so many beautiful walks front the front door, along the coast (hard work on the shingle!) and through the fields on the National Trust dedicated routes. High up on the ridgeway, across to St Catherine’s Chapel or stretch the legs for a few miles and walk to Hardy’s Monument. There are plenty of walking guides at the house.
Fishing: Chesil Beach is one of the most popular beach fishing destinations in the UK. The 18 mile stretch of shingle is a stunning place to fish and it offers fishing opportunities for anglers of all abilities. The list of potential target species is huge and just about anything can turn up anywhere. But we don’t like the fishermen parking in front of our house ruining our view!
Swimming: Sea swimming can be great fun but BEWARE, the sea is dangerous and there is a very strong current. Do not swim alone.
Sub Tropical Gardens: Probably one of the best gardens of its type in the world. Magnificent Victorian walled garden set in 20 acres of woodland valley. The unique micro climate enables rare and exotic species from all over the world to thrive here.
Short Drive Away.
Fossil Hunting: Charmouth (30 minutes drive away) was one of the first locations added to Discovering Fossils, and has since been the destination for several organised fossil trips. The famous coastline between Lyme Regis (in the west), and Seatown (in the east), has yielded a range of spectacular fossils, including: giant marine reptiles, intricate crinoids and ammonites.
Golf: Just outside Bridport is a public golf course (15 minutes drive away). Outstandingly beautiful vista awaits all who play the course with scenic views not only over the sea and shore, but inland to the two highest points in Dorset, Pilsdon Pen and Lewesdon Hill.
Walking: Golden Cap (20 minutes drive away) is a high, flat-topped hill of deep orange sandstone on the cliffs between Charmouth and Bridport, and is comprised of two ages of rock from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. The Cap is the highest point on the south coast, at 627ft (191m), with views along the shore to the tip of Portland Bill in one direction and to Start Point in the other. Inland, you can see Pilsdon Pen and as far as Dartmoor.
Walking: Visit Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, about 40 minutes drive away. Eroded by time and nature, Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks.
Walking: Harry Rock is worth the drive (about one hour) Standing tall at the southern end of Studland Bay is one of the most famous landmarks on the South Coast – Old Harry. The chalk formations are popularly know as Old Harry Rocks, but the name actually refers to the single stack of chalk standing furthest out to sea. Until 1896 there was another stack known as Old Harry’s Wife, but erosion caused her to tumble into the sea, leaving just a stump.
