Church Knowle is a peaceful Purbeck village, set in a beautiful valley just a mile west of Corfe Castle. With deep historic roots, stone cottages, a centuries-old pub, and countryside views, it’s a lovely detour for visitors exploring the Isle of Purbeck.
The name ‘Cnolle’ comes from Saxon origins, meaning hilltop, pointing to early settlement. But Church Knowle’s history predates even that. A Roman villa was discovered nearby, and the surrounding landscape features several prehistoric barrows, revealing human activity here dating back thousands of years.
It appears in the Domesday Book (1086) as Cnolle, with a priest already residing in the village. By 1346, it was recorded as Churchecnolle—a name reflecting its ecclesiastical role.
Just outside the village is Barnston Manor, a 13th-century fortified house believed to be one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited homes. Once home to the Dorset-based Clavell family, it predates their later estate, Smedmore House.
Church Knowle’s St Peter’s Church, also from the 13th century, is notable as the burial place of the Pike brothers—Purbeck Ball Clay merchants credited with introducing the first steam locomotive to the area in 1866. Also buried there is Warburton Pike, famed for translating Dante’s Inferno into English in 1881.
To explore the local clay industry further, visit the Purbeck Mining Museum just outside Corfe Castle.
Kilwood Nature Reserve is ancient woodland undergoing natural regeneration over a landscape once used for clay mining—its heritage stretches back to Roman times.
The village is also home to the Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre, a much-loved destination for families. Meet rescue animals, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and support a fantastic cause. Entry is free (donations welcome), with picnic areas and plenty to see.
There are no shops in Church Knowle—the nearest are in Corfe Castle or Wareham. However, the village does have one excellent pub: the New Inn. Despite the name, it’s hundreds of years old and offers hearty meals, real ales, and a cosy garden—ideal for walkers and dog owners.
By Car
Take the A351 from Wareham toward Corfe Castle, then follow minor roads west for approximately 3 miles (5 km). Please park responsibly—on the village roadside spots and please be considerate to residents.
By Bus
Ride the Purbeck Breezer 40 between Swanage and Poole, stopping at Wareham, Corfe Castle, and Church Knowle.
Check live timetables, departure info, and subscribe to alerts on the Morebus route 40 page.
For real-time arrivals and mobile ticketing, download the Morebus app or use their mobile site.
Buses typically run hourly, with the trip from Wareham to Church Knowle taking around 10 minutes.
By Train & Bus
Travel via train to Wareham station on the London–Weymouth line—book tickets and check schedules using National Rail or Trainline (Wareham page provides live status).
At Wareham, transfer to the Purbeck Breezer 40 bus (see above).
On Foot or By Bike
Walkers can enjoy the Purbeck Way scenic route from Corfe Castle—about 30–45 minutes.
Cyclists can take the 11‑mile “Castle Ride” loop via Blue Pool. Full route maps and cycling guides are available on the Dorset Council cycling page.
