Spend a day walking one of Dorset’s most unique landscapes with a knowledgeable local guide. With an atmosphere all of its own, Portland has a rich maritime and quarrying history and there is much to see en-route, with forts, castles, hidden coves, churches, light houses and amazing views.
This walk follows the coast path around the atmospheric island of Portland, unlike anywhere else in the county. For centuries stone has been quarried here for some of the country’s most notable buildings (e.g. Christopher Wren’s St. Paul’s Cathedral) which gives the landscape a slightly surreal atmosphere at times. You will visit Napoleonic defences, a ruined castle, hidden coves, churches, a quirky little museum, Portland Bill with it soaring lighthouse and a fascinating sculpture park with over sixty sculptures, including ones by Anthony Gormley. The views along the Chesil Bank are magnificent and look out for rare migratory birds. Portland is the first landfall for many of them and is also home to over half of Britain’s 57 species of butterfly.
Starting at the highest point on the island, your first stop is The High Angle Battery - a fascinating Victorian defensive structure complete with 'Ghost Tunnels'. Famous Portland Bill with its iconic lighthouse is a great place to grab an icecream and take a stroll or do some bird-spotting. Finally, we will explore Tout Quarry where over sixty sculptures are to be discovered, including ‘Still Falling’ by the internationally renowned sculptor Antony Gormley as well as the ‘Memory Stones’ which line up with the passage of the sun at solstice and equinox.
Options of either 10 miles (16 km) or 6 miles (10 km). Walking is fairly level but does include one steep, downwards climb. Paths will be rocky and uneven, so a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy shoes are both essential.
From £50 pp
April to October