Capstone Holiday Rental
Corfe Castle and surrounds
Corfe Castle village http://corfe-castle.co.uk:
Corfe Castle Museum
Starting with the iguanadon, (dinosaur), through stone age man and the riches underfoot, the Museum has images and artefacts taken from Corfe's past with the clay, stone and Purbeck Marble industries and snapshots of why and how the village became what it is today. The Museum is housed on the ground floor of the smallest Town Hall in England and so it is quite small too, but well worth a visit. It is open every day and entry is free. Situated on West Street – the road opposite the entrance to the Castle.
www.corfecastletowntrust.co.uk
Corfe Castle Model Village
Visit to see what the Castle and village would have looked like before its destruction by Cromwell's troops in 1646. Set in an acre of landscaped gardens, there are plenty of activities for both young and old alike. Entrance fee applies.
¥ Giant Games for all the family
¥ Croquet lawn
¥ Village punishment area for scoundrels, with working stocks and pillories
¥ Fossil corner
¥ Enchanted fairy garden
¥ Wildlife garden with hide and bird feeding station
¥ The Potting shed miniature museum and information centre
¥ Life size civil war soldiers, guarding our castle
¥ Terrace for refreshments with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and castle.
¥ Gift shop, selling local produce and fun gifts for all the family
The Courtyard tea room serving fresh local produce in a 17th Century courtyard setting, open to everyone whether visiting the Model Village or not.
For more information: www.corfecastlemodelvillage.co.uk
Swanage Railway Museum
Situated in the Goods Shed at Corfe Castle Railway Station. The museum is crammed with signs, tools and railway equipment from a bygone age. Admission free.
Purbeck Mineral & Mining Museum
The museum features artifacts primarily connected to the mining of ball clay in Dorset and other significant minerals extracted in Purbeck, which were intimately connected with the growth and history of the Swanage Railway, including reconstruction of a typical Ball Clay drift mine and a short operational narrow gauge demonstration line
Located at Norden Park & Ride (just the other side of Corfe Castle)
For more information: www.purbeckminingmuseum.org
Corfe Castle
Visit this thousand year old castle shaped by warfare, one of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians.
A favourite haunt for adults and children alike, you can't fail to be captivated by these romantic castle ruins with breathtaking views across Purbeck.Discover 1,000 years of our history as a royal palace and fortress. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner.Spot the 'murder holes' and count the arrow loops. Feel history come to life and see the wildlife that has set up home here. Many events are held here throughout the year including battle re-enactments, and a snapshot of medieval village life.National Trust entrance fees apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/corfe-castle/
RSPB Arne
This RSPB reserve is set in beautiful scenery with trails overlooking Poole Harbour. It is an extremely important piece of Dorset heathland and all species of British reptiles can be found here.
There is a variety of special wildlife to see. In summer look out for Dartford warblers nesting in the heather, nightjars flying at dusk and as many as 22 species of colourful dragonflies. The reserve overlooks Poole Harbour where you can watch thousands of wading birds, ducks and geese including avocets, black-tailed godwits and brent geese in winter. Ospreys are regularly seen on migration in late summer and in autumn.
Guided walks take place with a ranger every Wednesday morning throughout the year and also on some weekends during the summer. Visit the RSPB website to find out more.
The reserve can be found off the Corfe to Wareham road – take the turning by Norden Park & Ride. The road is quite narrow so look out for oncoming cars. And wildlife can be seen all along this road, especially if you venture there early in the morning (the best time for wildlife).
Charge for car park only (except RSPB members - free) www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/a/arne/
