Purbeck Countryside Guide

Purbeck offers you a unique experience. Where else in the world can you see peregrines, Lulworth skippers and early spider orchids? Unfortunately this marvellous countryside is under pressure. Your help is needed to ensure that you and future generations can continue to enjoy it.

Did you know?

• Internationally important fossils, including dinosaur footprints, have been found in Purbeck

• The butterfly called the Lulworth skipper was first discovered near Durdle Door in 1832

• Durlston is one of the best places in the country to see Dolphins

• The Purbeck heaths support more sand lizards and smooth snakes than anywhere else in the country

• The first records of little egrets breeding in England were on Brownsea Island

You can view the guide online, download your own copy or pick up a paper copy at the Discover Purbeck Information Centre.

The Purbeck Countryside Guide was produced by the Purbeck Heritage Committee and the Purbeck Information and Field Studies Group.

• Purbeck's landscapes and habitats

  Find out about the different types of landscapes and habitats found in Purbeck.

• Places to visit in Purbeck

  Find details of places to visit in Purbeck's countryside.

• Recreation in Purbeck's Countryside

  Find out about walking and cycling routes in Purbeck. They form a network of footpaths, bridleways and quiet roads enabling you to visit many countryside sites without your car.

• Getting around Purbeck

  Purbeck has a variety of ways to travel around the area including steam trains, the Jurassic Coast bus or boats. You can even leave the car behind and travel around Purbeck completely car free.