Corfe Castle is worth a visit just for the views of Poole Harbour from the Keep. This dramatic ruin with its leaning towers and large blocks of fallen stone still guards the gateway to Purbeck. Its history is full of intrigue and treachery, starting with the murder of Edward the Martyr in 978 and culminating in the betrayal which led to the destruction of the castle in 1646 by the Parliamentarians.

What can you see?

• Gaze up at the evocative remains of the Keep rising above the Outer Bailey
• Look into the towers with their thick walls and arrow loops. It is easy to imagine medieval life here
• Spot the murder holes in the gateways through which soldiers flung stones and boiling water
• Climb to the highest point and admire the view over the Dorset heathlands and Poole harbour

What can you do?

• Find out about life in the castle in the Castle View Visitor Centre. Try out the hands-on activities there and ask Lady Bankes what she thought of the lavatories
• Look for the tower where King John starved 22 knights to death
• Have a picnic in the castle grounds or join a guided tour
• Take part in one of the special events such as a Family Fun Day during August
• Or our hands-on Archaeology Weekend in September
  
• More information on visiting Corfe Castle