Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk

Difficulty
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Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
171 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk

The Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk is a beautifully scenic adventure in Dorset that will take you along the coast to experience views of the English Channel and nearby historical buildings. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the 19th Century Durlston Castle and continue along the coast until you reach the site of the Anvil Point Lighthouse that was built from local stone in 1881. This is a great trail for anyone looking for historic buildings or scenic seaside views.

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Route Description for Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk

While the Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk is a family-friendly experience, there are some fairly steep portions of the trail that will limit access for less-mobile walkers. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear in order to better traverse the rugged coastal trail. Additionally, if you find yourself exploring this trail with young children or dogs, make sure to keep a close eye on them to avoid any dangerous encounters near steep drop offs.

Whether you fancy yourself a local historian or simply one who enjoys beautiful views overlooking the sea, the Durlston Head and Anvil Point Trail will provide more than enough to see and do. Lovely views over Durlston Bay, the undulating terrain of the Durlston Country Park, and the dramatic scenery of both Durlston Castle and the Anvil Point Lighthouse set against the backdrop of the water makes for a memorable day on the trails in Dorset.

Setting out from the trailhead at Peveril Point, you will make your way to the southwest and climb up the coastal landscape, eventually making your way through a tranquil stretch of forest set high above the water. From here, you will briefly make your way east to pass by the 19th Century Durston Castle and its restaurant Seventh Wave, before rounding Durlston Head on the way back to the southwest.

Eventually, you will pass by the Tilly Whim Caves, before arriving at the Anvil Point Lighthouse. After taking in the views, you will make your way back past the caves and head to the left in order to climb up the hillside towards Durlston Castle. From there, you will simply retrace your steps along your initial trail to return to your vehicle.

Getting to the Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk Trailhead

The trailhead for the Durlston Head and Anvil point Lighthouse Walk can be found at the Swanage Boat Park on peveril Point Road in Swanage.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-Round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk Elevation Graph

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Durlston Head and Anvil Point Lighthouse Walk Reviews

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