Kingston to Chapman’s Pool, Swanage

I start my 5 mile circular walk from the free car park located to the West of the village of Kingston (which is about 2 miles South of Corfe Castle). Heading southwards, I wander through “The Plantation” before meeting a ridge where I get to enjoy some stunning views over the Encombe Estate (including an Obelisk!).

At Houns-Tout Cliff , there are some splendid views to be had looking over to the West including Swyre Head (the highest point on the Isle of Burbeck).

I then head East, following the South West Coast Path, down some steep steps to a valley before initially heading inland and then back towards the sea, to approach Chapman's Pool on the Eastern side.

After negotiation a “challenging” path, I finally make it to Chapman's Pool Beach – a super place to look for fossils and to enjoy a wander.

I make my way around to the far Eastern side of the bay to check out the old fishing huts (that once housed a lifeboat in the 19th century).

My homeward leg takes me on a footpath along the side of a hill, back to Kingston where I finish my walk at the Scott Arms. The pub has a beer garden at the back with incredible views of Corfe Castle in the North.

I should point out that there are a couple of sections on the walk that are very steep and indeed on the final path to the beach there is a rope to assist folk with going up AND down on the route. If you do struggle with walking on uneven ground and steep gradients then it probably is not the walk for you. It is also important not to get too close to the base of the cliffs that surround Chapman's Pool as there are regular rockfalls.

TIPS:

“I should point out that there are a couple of sections on the walk that are very steep and indeed on the final path to the beach there is a rope to assist folk with going up AND down on the route. If you do struggle with walking on uneven ground and steep gradients then it probably is not the walk for you. It is also important not to get to close to the base of the cliffs that surround Chapman’s Pool as there are regular rockfalls.”

— Dave Ford

Love our Dog Friendly Dorset member Dave Ford and Logan the whippet

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Postcode: BH20 5LL

Parking details: FREE car park Encombe Estate Car Park - 400 yards to West of Kingston village

Food stops: Scott Arms Pub at Kingston

Length of walk: 5 miles

Wheelchair access? Not suitable for wheelchairs