Spyway sea saunter
This flat, circular walk on the south Purbeck coast takes you across rich grasslands with great sea views. There's an optional detour to the striking quarry formation known as the Dancing Ledge and a chance to see some sculpted animals and some real deer.
Near to
SpywayStart point
Spyway car park, grid ref SY997784Trail information
Total stages: 8
Total stages: 8
Start point
Spyway car park, grid ref SY997784
Stage 1
The walk starts at the kissing gate at the end of the car park and continues along the track ahead of you. You'll cross the ancient Priest's Way in Purbeck.
Stage 2
Continue along the track to the farm buildings. Between the cottages and the buildings, take time to stop off at the display barn to find out more about conservation in this area.
Stage 3
Now head into the grassland. Here, you may see sika or roe deer or hear the loud whistling call of the sika stags during the autumn breeding season. Taking in the views to the English Channel, keep going through the grassland until you reach a kissing gate and a distinctive sculpture.
Stage 4
Once through the kissing gate you're rewarded with coastal views and the chance to sit and savour this diverse landscape. From here, turn right and head west along the track at the top of the hill, keeping the dry stone wall to your right and the sea to your left.
The result of quarrying, Dancing Ledge at Spyway, Dorset, is now a popular picnic spot | © National Trust Stage 5
Continue straight ahead through the gap in the wall.
Stage 6
Go through the kissing gate and turn right away from the sea, heading inland up the track.
Stage 7
When you reach the gates at the end of the field, stop to admire the views of the Purbeck Hills, Swanage Bay and the Isle of Wight. Go through the gate, turn right and continue along the Priest's Way.
Stage 8
Go through the next gate and turn immediately left back into the field where the car park is.
End point
Spyway car park, grid ref SY997784
Trail map
The Spyway sea saunter, Dorset | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
More near here
South Purbeck cliffs walk
Sea views, former quarries and grassland rich in wildlife are some of the highlights on this bracing six-mile circular walk across South Purbeck cliffs.
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