Ivy Cottage

Corfe Castle

Distance from Ivy Cottage: Within 20 minutes by car.

A very scenic drive or cycle ride over the ridgeway from Lulworth takes you into the heart of the Isle of Purbeck and to another of Dorset's most famous landmarks.

Built soon after the Norman conquest by William the conqueror, the Castle occupies a site which may have been used as a defensive position since Roman times, but certainly during the late-Saxon period, where it was the scene of the murder of King Edward The Martyr in 978AD. The medieval castle was destroyed by the Parliamentarian forces in the seventeenth century, leaving behind the haunting ruin which remains today. Now maintained by the National Trust, visitors can climb the steep hill to explore the ruin, or visit the heritage centre to learn more about the castle's history.

The Village at the foot of the Castle is very much a typical Purbeck village, with its ancient buildings and an array of delightful shops and cafes. Corfe also has a model village, which is enjoyed by many of its visitors.

Monkey World

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 8 minute drive

Dorset is home to the acclaimed ape rescue centre, Monkey World. Take a day to visit the stars of Channel Four's hit TV series, "Monkey Business". Kids can learn about many species of primate, many of which are endangered, as well as getting to play in the South's largest adventure play area. A great day out for the whole family.

Click here to visit the website

Tank Museum

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 10 minute drive

Nip inland to Bovington Camp, the home of the military's Challenger 2 tank. See tanks from the earliest World War One prototype, visit the acclaimed Trench Exhibition, or check out the sensational "Tanks in Action" military displays.

See the website for more details

Swanage Steam Railway

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 20 minute drive

Lovingly restoring the standard guage steam line from Swanage to Wareham has been a life's labour for the dedicated volunteers of Swanage Steam Railway.

Now visitors can ride the steam train through the spectacular Purbeck Countryside to Corfe Castle and beyond. A fantastic experience. There is a park and ride service at Norden station, which would allow visitors to stop on and explore Harmans Cross and Corfe Castle on the way into Swanage. See the website for latest information.

Swanage is also Purbeck's main seaside town. Here you will find a sandy beach, some great sailing, countless fish'n'chips shops, a theatre and some great restaurants and pubs. Children love to catch crabs on the pier.

There is a park and ride service at Norden station, allowing visitors to ride the steam train, stopping to and explore Harmans Cross and Corfe Castle on the way into Swanage.

Studland Beach

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 20 minute drive

If a simple day by the sea is what's in order, there is only one place of choice for many Dorset locals - Studland! With its clean, safe waters and soft sand, Studland is ideal for a family day out. One can sunbathe in the summer sun, go for a swim or snorkel, or explore the sand dunes. There is also a chain ferry, which will take you across the water into Poole harbour - the second largest natural harbour in the world!

Wareham Quay and Saxon walled town

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 10 minute drive

Wareham is seen by many as the centre of the Isle of Purbeck. Originally fortified as a 'burh' in the late ninth century for defence against the Viking invaders, modern visitors can still take a short scenic walk around Alfred the Great's earth ramparts.

Tyneham Village and Warbarrow Bay

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 10 minute drive

The village of Tyneham was deserted during the Second World War, to be used by the military for exercises. The inhabitants were never to return... Take a trip down to this beautiful little village and step back over half a century in time. Find out the story of some of these inhabitants as you explore them empty buildings and the restored schoolhouse.

A very short walk takes you down to the sea into Warbarrow Bay. This is another of Dorset's secluded bays with excellent views.

Dorchester: Iron Age Hillfort and Roman Villa

Distance from Ivy Cottage: 25 minute drive

Heading West out of the Purbecks takes you to the Roman town of Dorchester, Dorset's county town. Famous as Thomas Hardy's "Casterbridge", Dorchester has many attractions to explore, from museums, to Prince Charles' Poundbury village.

Take a trip to see a the remains of a real Roman villa, complete with mosaic floors.

Looming above the old town stands Maiden Castle, the largest hillfort in Europe, built during the iron age. Take a walk around the network of ramparts and ditches to admire one of England's most impressive ancient earthworks.