One of the most famous landmarks on the South Cost – Old Harry Rocks

A not to be missed coastal walk in Purbeck.  Old Harry Rocks has some absolutely breathtaking views of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.  The walk offers you a chance to get up close to the chalk stack known as ‘Old Harry’ on the Jurassic Coastline. This coastline marks the most eastern point of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Old Harry – Chalk Stack

The chalk stacks were at one time part of a chalk seam that stretched from Purbeck to the Isle of White, including the Needles. Old Harry would have started as a headland, with the sea exploiting a crack in the chalk, slowing eroding it to form a cave. Over time the cave eventually eroded into an area which then collapsed to leave the stack we see today. In the 18th century people could still walk from the headland of Handfast Point to Old Harry. Old Harry used to have a wife which collapsed in 1896 to leave a stump.

Why is it called ‘Old Harry’?

There are several legends: some say the devil once slept on the rocks, earning them the name “Old Harry.” Another tale tells of a 9th-century Viking, Earl Harold, who drowned nearby and was transformed into a pillar of rock. Others believe the rocks were named after the infamous Dorset pirate Harry Paye.

Whichever story you choose, the name carries centuries of mystery and local lore.

Sci-Fi connection!

Adding to their allure, H.G. Wells, the renowned author of The War of the Worlds and The Time Machine, had his ashes scattered at Old Harry Rocks following his death in 1946.

Local wildlife

Due to the isolation of the stacks they have been colonised by breeding marine birds. The cliff tops with their chalk grasslands are also a haven for grasses, wildflowers, birds and insects. You may also be luck enough to spot a dolphin or two in the sea below!

Walking to Ballard Down

For those wanting more adventure, you can continue along the coastal path to Ballard Down, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across Poole Harbour and Swanage Bay.

Useful information

• The site is managed by The National Trust and you can find more details of the walk on the National Trust website page for Old Harry Rocks.
• The closest car park and a good point to start the walk to Old Harry Rocks is the National Trust South Beach Car Park, Studland

Read more about the local visitor attractions along Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast. 

The drone photo above of Old Harry Rocks is by local photographer Cenk (see more of Cenk’s photos on his website)