Walk – Swanage Coastal Park to Dancing Ledge

Distance: 4.5 miles (7.2 km)
Start & End Point: Spyway Car Park
Difficulty: Challenging – Expect some steep climbs and descents. Footpaths can be slippery in places, so wear sturdy footwear.

Cliffs, Fossils and Quarries of the Purbeck Coast

This rewarding circular walk begins and ends at Spyway Car Park, taking you across dramatic Purbeck landscapes and past the famous Dancing Ledge, a flat rock ledge used for centuries by quarrymen.

Along the way, you’ll see limestone cliffs, hidden caves, and remnants of old stone quarries. This coast is a goldmine for geologists and fossil hunters — dinosaur footprints as wide as a metre have been found nearby, and ancient fossil beds reveal traces of some of the earliest life on Earth.

The route offers a strong connection with the area’s stone-working history, and the exposed cliffs give panoramic views across the Jurassic Coast. It’s a good choice for active walkers who enjoy history, geology, and wide open sea views.

Where to Stay Nearby

Whether you’re camping under the stars or looking for a warm bed and breakfast, there’s a place for every style near the path:

🏕️ Camping & Motorhome Sites

• Tom’s Field Campsite & Shop
  Traditional rural camping, 20 mins walk from the path.
  📞 01929 427110
• Weston Farm Motorhome & Campsite (National Trust)
  Peaceful site surrounded by wildlife, just 1 mile from the coast path.
  📞 07779 991106

🏡 B&Bs, Guesthouses & Lodges

• Chiltern Lodge
  Detached house in Worth Matravers with garden and Wi-Fi. Ideal for quiet relaxation.
  📞 01929 439337
• Millbrook Guest House
  Long-standing, family-run guesthouse in Swanage with traditional hospitality.
  📞 01929 423443
• Kingston Country Courtyard
  Stunning countryside B&B near Corfe Castle. Evening meals available on-site.
  📞 01929 481066
• Alford House B&B
  Friendly B&B in a beautiful village setting. Offers pick-up/drop-off to the path.
  📞 01929 480156