Things to See and Do in Corfe Castle

The pretty village of Corfe Castle may be small, but there is lots of choice for keeping all ages entertained.

Majestic castle ruins

Corfe Castle, now owned by the National Trust, was built in 1086 and was one of the country’s great strongholds. It was defended by Lady Bankes (the wife of its owner) during the English Civil War, before being betrayed by someone inside the castle. For her heroic efforts, the parliamentarians allowed Lady Bankes to go free, but destroyed the Castle in 1646 to stop it being used in the future.

Some of the ruined stone was used in the building of the village and the houses are built of local stone, making it one of the most attractive villages in Dorset.

Fantastic family fun

If you are curious as to what the Castle would have looked like before it was destroyed during the Civil War, why not visit Corfe Castle Model Village? Step in back in time to see what it would have looked like in 1646, play games in the gardens or enjoy a cream tea in the courtyard café.

Exhilarating group and family activities can be found at Brenscombe Outdoor Centre. Why not try rock climbing, kayaking, archery, a tree-top ropes course and much, much more.

If you love bouncy castles you will really love Dorset Adventure Park. An inflatable adventure course on two lakes where you can put on a wetsuit and test yourself to see if you can get to the end of the course without falling in the water!

Discover the village

Along with the Castle and Model Village there is a vintage railway station where you can catch a steam train with Swanage Railway. While you're there, why not pop into the museum found next to the Railway Station to see memorabilia and a train engine close-up.

There are a number of interesting shops, art galleries and a gift shops to browse or purchase a souvenir of your visit. And don’t miss the tiny village museum beneath what is thought to be the smallest town hall in England!

Corfe Common is found just on the edge of the village with the Purbeck Way walking route passing through it to reach Chapman's Pool and the South West Coast Path. Alternatively follow the Purbeck Way towards Wareham or Swanage (with views over the Castle and village from up on the Purbeck Ridge).

Why not join a guided walk around the village and out into the countryside or down to the world famous Jurassic Coast? There are some amazing views of the village, castle and surrounding area to be seen.

Cycle to the sea

Cyclexperience offer bike hire from nearby at Purbeck Park. Opt for standard or electric bikes, suitable for the whole family. They'll set you off on a day of adventure to the beautiful golden sand beaches at Studland or perhaps the market town of Wareham.

You could also cycle one way and get a Swanage Railway train back to Norden station to drop off the bikes. It's not cheating, we promise!

Discover tranquility

Just a few miles outside of Corfe Castle village, you'll find The Blue Pool. A tranquil beauty spot set in woodlands and surrounded by heath. The Pool has everchanging colours - from blue to turquoise to green. Enjoy walking through the woods, trying to spot the fairy doors or maybe a delicious cream tea in the Tea House.

You can walk to the Blue Pool from the village along the Purbeck Way walking route - its just 3 miles (about 1 hour) each way.

Something to eat

Looking for somewhere to stop for breakfast, lunch or dinner? There are lots of choices in Corfe Castle village or a few minutes drive away.

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Corfe Castle

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