places to visit Dorset

PLACES TO VISIT IN DORSET

stay & visit

clavell tower

Built in 1830, and visited by Thomas Hardy, this Tuscan style tower stands overlooking Kimmeridge Bay.

visit

kimmeridge bay

A gem in the South West Coast Path, Kimmeridge Bay sits within a marine Special Area of Conservation. There is rock pooling and snorkelling to enjoy on calm days.

culture

the etches collection

This independent fossil museum, founded by Dr Steve Etches MBE, is located directly opposite Clavells making it the ideal place to visit before or after you eat with us. 

Culture

tyneham village

This entire village was evacuated in 1943 when the area was required for WWII military training - and it has remained deserted ever since.

culture

corfe castle

One of the most iconic landmarks on the Isle of Purbeck, Corfe Castle has dominated the landscape for over 1000 years.

VISIT

WILD SEAS CENTRE

The Wild Seas Centre located on the shores of Kimmeridge Bay provides fascinating and innovative information while the snorkel trail allows a unique glimpse under the waves.

VISIT

old harry’s rock

Located off the coast between Studland and Swanage lies the white chalk rock known as Old Harry’s Rock. 

Culture

brownsea island

The largest island in Poole Harbour, Brownsea is a haven for birds and wildlife with woodland, heathland and a lagoon.

culture

hardy’s cottage

Wander through Thomas Hardy’s much loved childhood home and uncover more about 19th century rural life, with its open hearths, stone floors and creaky stairs.

walks

durdle door

Created over 10,000 years ago this natural arch has formed from a layer of hard limestone. It is one of the most famous stone arches in the world and the footpath to reach it now sees over 200,000 walkers every year. 

explore

ARNE NATURE RESERVE

Set against the backdrop of Poole Harbour, RSPB Arne is famous for its wide-open heathlands where reptiles roam, you can easily head off into ancient oak woodland, farmland and reedbeds to explore.

visit

worbarrow bay

You’ll find this undiscovered bay a short walk from Tyneham Village. Managed by the MOD, stick to the paths during opening times and discover the beauty of this secret spot.

 

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Featured
CLAVELLS VALENTINE’S DAY TIRAMISU x PURBECK ICE CREAM recipe
CLAVELLS VALENTINE’S DAY TIRAMISU x PURBECK ICE CREAM recipe

If you’re looking for a special dessert to cook at home, you won’t want to miss this exclusive collaboration with two of Purbeck’s best loved brands. With the release of their infamous tiramisu recipe, Clavells are teaming up with Purbeck Ice Cream for a sweet treat suggestion that will delight your partner and family - and you’ll love adapting the dessert to their taste Purbeck Ice Cream’s extensive range of flavours.

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The Geology of Kimmeridge Bay:From Iron Age to Present Day
The Geology of Kimmeridge Bay:From Iron Age to Present Day

Kimmeridge Bay really does have something for everyone; from marine life enthusiasts, hikers and walkers to geographers and geologists. At Clavells we love to hear your stories about what you’ll be doing with your day at Kimmeridge.

Although Kimmeridge Bay is famous for the fossils to be found both on the bay itself and at the Etches Collection, there’s also so much to discover when it comes to the geography and geology of the land itself.

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THE GREAT NURDLE HUNT
THE GREAT NURDLE HUNT

In the heart of the Dorset countryside and just moments from the Jurassic Coast, Clavells is surrounded by nature. We are passionate about protecting the Purbeck landscape and preserving it for generations to come.

Kimmeridge Bay and the Dorset coastline enable us to provide our visitors with the freshest fish and locally caught dishes. However, with mounting levels of plastic and microplastics in the sea we need your help.

That’s why we want to ask you to join in the Great Nurdle Hunt. Ever heard of a nurdle? Let’s find out a little more, and learn about how you can help in the hunt for them.

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