Unforgettable Road Trip by Camper at the Isle Of Purbeck
Read Time: About 17 minutes
Isle of Purbeck. Sean Arble
Crumbling castles, chalk grasslands and jagged cliffs await you at the Isle of Purbeck. Bordered by water on three sides, this is a fantastic stop with some of the most important attractions in Dorset, including many top spots on the glorious Jurassic Coast. This campervan road trip itinerary will highlight the unmissable points of interest, including ancient buildings, gorgeous white-sand beaches with grass-topped dunes, and rolling countryside. The distance from our last stop, a campervan road trip through Poole, to the Isle of Purbeck takes just over half an hour via the A351, so pack your bags, hit the road, and look forward to an exciting new destination on our Dorset campervan road trip. Combining a visit to the Isle of Purbeck with a stay at campsites in Dorset means you can make the most of Dorset’s coastal charm.
Despite its name, the Isle Of Purbeck is not an island but a peninsula connected to the mainland, and surrounded by water on three sides.
- Where is The Isle of Purbeck?
- How Big is The Isle of Purbeck?
- Isle of Purbeck Road Trip Itinerary
- Camping in and around Isle of Purbeck
- Best Isle of Purbeck Campsites
- Isle of Purbeck Campsites for Caravans
- Isle of Purbeck Campsites Near Beach
- Campervan Hire Towns in Isle of Purbeck
- Farwell to The Isle of Purbeck
Where is The Isle of Purbeck?
Isle of Purbeck. Sean Arble
It is located on Dorset's south coast, bordered by the English Channel to the south and the River From plus Poole Harbour to the north. This beautiful location is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an excellent stop along your Dorset road trip. The name is thought to come from the empty heaths of Wareham and the coastline, which isolates the peninsula and creates an island-like atmosphere. The easiest way to get there is by car via Wareham. At the same time, a scenic route takes the ferry from Sandbanks in Bournemouth, across the mouth of Poole Harbour, to Studland on the fringes of the northeastern edge of the peninsula. The crossing is short yet adds a sense of adventure to your road trip to the Isle of Purbeck and costs approximately £5.20 for most campervans. Booking a campervan hire or motorhome rental is a great way to explore the area.
How Big is The Isle of Purbeck?
The Isle of Purbeck is quite large, and there are plenty of exciting attractions to explore, so it may take time to decide where to begin. It covers an area of approximately 60 square miles (155 square kilometres). We have highlighted the top spots to explore and included the best things to see and do.
Soak in stunning views over Swanage Bay and meadows sprinkled with horses, sheep, and wildflowers at California Meadows Campsite, a clean and welcoming site on a picturesque working farm.
Isle of Purbeck Road Trip Itinerary
Swanage, a peaceful seaside town on the eastern border of the Isle of Purbeck, is the most easterly town on the Jurassic Coast with a long sandy beach and a wide bay. The area is great for both day trips and overnight camping escapes, surrounded by beautiful attractions, like the Durlston Nature Reserve and the beautiful Studland Bay, Swanage is a great base for your road trip to the Isle of Purbeck. The isle itself is a fantastic destination with plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs, and the Swanage Railway, a Heritage steam railway chugging across the beautiful Isle of Purbeck. Enjoy the sights and sounds from the restored station and hop on one of the antique steam trains, enjoying the spectacular scenery.
If you are staying overnight in the town, use the steam railway to Corfe Castle, a dramatic ruin on a low hill. The fortress was built over a thousand years ago, and is a must-visit when you’re in the area. Take an easy 2-mile walk around the castle and Norden Station. The village of Corfe is a great spot for enjoying a refreshing cream tea, learning of the castle’s rich history, and exploring the model village.
Old Harry Rocks.Simaron
For more enchanting coastal scenery, take in views of Old Harry Rocks, a stunning series of chalk stacks jutting out into the glittering ocean from the Isle of Purbeck. The stacks boast a whopping 100 million years of history between them, and until a few years ago, connected Purbeck and the Isle of Wight. On a clear day views from Handfast Point extend as far as Needles across the sea. According to legend, the rocks are named after a pirate from Poole, Harry Payne, while the smaller stacks are known as Harry’s Wife. There is a scenic 4 mile route from South Beach Car Park at Studland to Old Harry Rocks, which is perfect for walkers.
Kimmeridge Bay is another coastal big hitter along the southwestern border of Purbeck. The wide, sheltered bay has craggy shelves filled with plenty of rock pools for the kids during low tide. The bay falls under a Special Area of Conservation, making it one of Dorset's best locations for snorkelling. Pair a day of rock pooling with a visit to the Dorset Wildlife Trust's Wild Seas Centre to learn more about the local and marine life. If you're in the mood to stretch your legs, follow a 5.2-mile hike winding past the coast and countryside around the bay, winding past the countryside and coastline. The Grade II listed Tuscan-style Clavell Tower is well worth a visit, perched on a cliff overlooking Kimmeridge Bay. Constructed in 1830, the structure is purely decorative and offers fantastic vistas across the ocean and shoreline.
Chapman's Pool is great for walking enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys lazing on a nearly empty beach. A one-mile walk from the car park down to the cove may sound daunting and often puts off visitors; however, it is a wonderful spot with a wild and rugged beach backed by towering limestone cliffs. The Houns Tout View walk, a mile and a half of flat, easy, and grassy footpath, is one of the prettiest coastal walks in Dorset and boasts fantastic views of Chapman's Pool and the valley.
The Blue Pool, one of Dorset's lesser-known attractions, rests at the heart of the Isle of Purbeck. It is a beautiful spot for a walk, often overlooked by holidaymakers. The lake was formed when an old clay pit was flooded with water, which seemed blue to some and turquoise or green to others. It is a beautiful and quiet spot that isn't overcrowded.
South Lytchett Manor Caravan Park does the unthinkable by blending a peaceful location surrounded by picturesque Dorset countryside with easy access to lively Poole (3-miles away) and a 20-minute drive from bustling Bournemouth.
RSPB Arne, a sweeping nature reserve with abundant wildlife, overlooks Poole Harbour and is one of the most stunning parts of the peninsula. The nature reserve rests within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and holds a stunning stretch of Dorset countryside filled with heather, gorse and ferns. For more open spaces and wildlife, head to Durlston Country Park, a stunning nature reserve overlooking Swanage Bay. The nature reserve boasts jaw-dropping views of the bay plus the Jurassic Coast and holds a landscape brimming with flora and fauna. Dolphins are often spotted just off the coast, and wildflower fields are home to 33 species of breeding butterflies. Walkers can follow signposted trails, and visitors can stop for a snack at the visitor centre and cafe at the beautifully restored Durlston Castle.
For more stunning walks, follow a section of the South West Coast Path, which extends some 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, ending at Poole in Dorset. Active types who fancy a challenge can follow the trail around the peninsula's edge. St Aldhelm's Head Walk, a stunning 4.1-mile route, is perfect for exploring the southerly part of the peninsula. The 3.5-mile Dancing Ledge Circular starts from Langton Matravers and winds through the quirkily named Scratch Arse Ware to Dancing Ledge and boasts fine coastal views on the Isle of Purbeck.
The sweeping bay of Studland, with gorgeous grass-clad dunes and enticing beaches are some of the most beautiful and untamed coastlines in Dorset. Studland Bay is a National Trust nature reserve with varied biodiversity, including a sprawling lowland heath. It truly feels like a wild and remote area, and during summer, the heathland is peppered with yellow gorse and purple heather, creating a spectacular backdrop for gorgeous beaches.
Plenty of scenic villages are sprinkled across the rolling hills, and each settlement promises a friendly welcome and a delightful blend of thatched-roof cottages, charming tea rooms, ancient churches, and cosy pubs. Remember to pop in at Wareham, one of Dorset's largest towns on the River Frome's banks. It is one of the last Saxon-walled towns with over 2,000 years of history, plenty of modern attractions, exciting events, and festivals held throughout the year.
The Isle of Purbeck is a beautiful corner of Dorset, and there's so much to explore that you may have to return for another visit.
Camping in and around Isle of Purbeck
Natural Beauty and outdoor adventures are the orders of the day at the Isle of Purbeck. Rugged cliffs meet golden beaches, rolling hills hide welcoming villages, and an array of adventures plus attractions make it a wonderful location for escaping the modern world while reconnecting with nature. Book a campsite on the Isle of Purbeck and wake up to the sound of waves lapping hidden coves, or watch the sunset paint Corfe Castle in a golden glow. We recommend looking for Wool, Harman’s Cross, and Bere Regis campsites. We’ll explore the distance to the Isle of Purbeck from each location and highlight what you can expect to see when you bunk down at one of these locations. The campsites in Bournemouth make an excellent complement to your Isle of Purbeck camping adventure, offering easy access to both urban attractions and natural beauty. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.
Corfe Castle. Simaron
When you book a campsite in Wool, you're in a peaceful yet central area surrounded by lush countryside, just 9 miles from the stunning Isle of Purbeck. Pitch a tent or park your vehicle and explore natural wonders like the dramatic Lulworth Cove and the iconic arch of Durdle Door, both iconic landmarks on the Jurassic Coast. Wander the lush banks of the River Frome or explore the enchanting ruins of Bindon Abbey, hidden in the woodlands. Fall in love with the timeless charm of Bovington with its undulating fields, or rumble over to the Isle of Purbeck, famed for its looming cliffs, historic castles, and windswept shores. If you want to check out more options near Wool, take a look at our campsites in Winfrith Newburgh, campsites in Lulworth Cove, campsites in Osmington, campsites in Preston and campsites in Lytchett Matravers.
Campsites in Harman's Cross place you in the verdant heart of Dorset's lush countryside, just 2 miles from the enchanting Isle of Purbeck. By day, explore the rolling Purbeck Hills or take a short drive to lounge on the sandy shores in Swanage. The romantic ruins of Corfe Castle atop a hill, only 3 miles away, boast panoramic views of the area, while the Swanage Railway, with its nostalgic steam trains, runs through Harman's Cross, creating a beautiful space for enjoying a touch of old-world charm. As night falls, the peaceful countryside and sparkling night sky set the tone for campfires and barbecues, enjoying the freedom to stretch your legs, lean back and enjoy the quiet of the countryside. Browse our top locations for camping, including campsites in Corfe Castle, campsites in Swanage, campsites in Steeple, campsites in Wareham and campsites in Poole.
Andrea's Farm Breaks is a lovely spot for a scenic countryside glamping experience, where romantic views of the rolling, green countryside fill your days at the site.
Escape the stress of the modern world, reconnect with nature, and savour the freedom to wake up at your pace with castles, countryside and coastline within easy reach at your campsites in Bere Regis. This peaceful village rests amid ancient woodland and pretty countryside, with plenty to explore at your own pace. Wander through the enchanting Piddles Wood or explore the untamed heathlands of Wareham Forest, just a stone’s throw away. With its lovely 12th-century church and old-world feel, the village itself makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. Swap the countryside for the coastline and rumble over to the stunning Isle of Purbeck, with the iconic Corfe Castle, while the delights of the Jurassic Coast are only 10 miles away. Take a short drive to jagged cliffs and hidden beaches and enjoy access to many attractions within easy reach. We list over 300 campsites within 30 miles of Bere Regis. We also highly recommend checking out campsites in Sturminster Marshall, campsites in Blandford, campsites in Blandford Forum and campsites in Upton.
Best Isle of Purbeck Campsites
Now that we’ve explored some of the best areas to camp near the Isle of Purbeck, we’d like to recommend our top three campsites in the Isle of Purbeck. Whether you want to escape to a rural site close to a wonderful selection of beaches, wake up to wonderful views over the ocean or be in proximity to attractions like Durdle Door and sandy Studland Beach, these campsites will blend comfort, scenery, and quiet settings, ensuring guests have a relaxing escape. Check out East Creech Farm Caravan and Camping Site, Corfe Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site and Luckford Wood Caravan and Camping. We’ll highlight amenities and attractions near each campsite below.
East Creech Farm Caravan And Camping Site in Wareham
East Creech Farm Caravan And Camping Site, Wareham
Tucked in the picturesque countryside, East Creech Farm Caravan and Camping Site is a quiet, grassy, 5-acre site with 80 camping pitches plus two tastefully furnished camping pods set on a separate farm. The campsite is a charming retreat for nature lovers and boasts lovely vistas towards Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island, with the Purbeck Hills offering shelter from the elements to the south. Wake up in the middle of marvellous countryside, within strolling distance of Creech Heath nature reserve, and explore beautiful walks to Corfe Castle. Just a short drive away, the stunning Island of Purbeck beckons with beaches and adventure, only 6 miles from your pitch. Stroll hand-in-hand through the nearby woods or enjoy a relaxing evening around a campfire, sharing stories of your day’s adventure. With its idyllic setting and proximity to the coastline, East Creech Farm promises a romantic escape that captures the essence of camping under the stars. The site welcomes tents, small campervans, motorhomes and caravans.
Corfe Castle Camping And Caravanning Club Site in Wareham
Corfe Castle Camping And Caravanning Club Site, Wareham
Set against the impressive backdrop of the historic Corfe Castle, the Corfe Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site rests at the foot of the Purbeck Hills, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offers an enchanting holiday, an easy 1-minute walk from Corfe Castle. Just 3 miles from the breathtaking Isle of Purbeck, this site invites you to explore stunning landscapes and idyllic coastal views. Wake up to the gentle sounds of nature, then spend your day wandering through charming villages or hiking along scenic trails. Rumble to iconic attractions, like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast. Alternatively, opt to unwind on your spacious pitch, admiring wildlife like badgers and owls, courtesy of the lush settings and proximity to the Arne RSPB Nature Reserve. Nearby, Kimmeridge and Poole Harbour are great spots for watersport thrills. As the sun sets, stretch out on your grass or hard-standing pitch for tents and tourers, and fire up the grill for an alfresco meal under the stars.
Luckford Wood Caravan and Camping in Wareham
Luckford Wood Caravan and Camping, Wareham
Luckford Wood Caravan and Camping is a gem for romantic getaways, tucked within serene woodland settings with the shimmering River Frome passing by. Just 5 miles from the breathtaking Isle of Purbeck, this enchanting site is an hour from the beautiful beaches of the Jurassic Coast and offers a tranquil escape just 10 minutes from Wool. Wake up to the soft rustle of leaves and birdsong, with the promise of exciting countryside and coastal adventure just around the corner. Explore nearby trails, or take a relaxing stroll to discover charming villages. The laid-back atmosphere and no-frills approach to camping make it an ideal space for guests who enjoy tranquil camping and basic amenities, like a modern toilet block, showers, and a washing-up area. Barbecues are encouraged on the pitches, and pets are welcome.
Isle of Purbeck Campsites for Caravans
At Downshay Farm Campsite in Swanage, your camping adventure begins amid lush fields and breathtaking views. Picture yourself on a spacious grass pitch, surrounded by lush greenery, and beautiful golden sunrises and sunsets. Just a short drive away, the captivating Isle of Purbeck promises exciting adventures, with its stunning cliffs and hidden coves. Spend your days wandering sandy shores, exploring stunning attractions, and return to your campsite to admire sunset views over Corfe Castle and the Purbeck Hills. Walkers are within easy reach of the famous World Heritage Coastal Path. The small, family-friendly site offers pitches with electric connections for caravans, campervans, and motorhomes and a toilet block with two showers and three toilets.
Explore England’s first World Heritage Site and explore the rich history of Corfe Castle at Norden Farm Touring Campsite, a family-run site tucked on a peaceful working farm on the beautiful southern coast of the Dorset coast.
Isle of Purbeck Campsites Near Beach
Nestled in the heart of woodland, Burnbake Forest Lodges and Campsite is a quiet camping and glamping site near the beach. Wake up to the scent of pine and the whispers of rustling leaves, and look forward to exciting adventures from your handy position sandwiched between Corfe Castle and Studland, both 10 minutes away. Pitches for tents, motorhomes, and caravans are spread out over two fields - one roomy and open, while the other is secluded and sheltered by trees. Glampers can kick back in a six or four-person safari tent with all the trimmings, including bed linen, heating, gas and electricity, a kitchenette and more. Just a stone’s throw away lies the enchanting Isle of Purbeck, inviting you to explore its rugged coastline and quaint villages. As dusk falls, gather around the crackling campfire and fall asleep to the tranquil sounds of nature.
Campervan Hire Towns in Isle of Purbeck
Durdle Door Rock Arch. Iknow-uk
We list hundreds of campervans and motorhomes across the UK, so why not check out our campervans for hire in Corfe Castle, Steeple, and Upton? These are great locations for exploring the Isle of Purbeck and other Dorset attractions, including the unmissable Jurassic Coast and more. We’ll explore the attractions you can visit in your campervan rental, plus a range of towns and villages near each recommended hire location. Each campervan hire town on the Isle of Purbeck offers something unique, and with campervan hire Dorset, you can experience them all without being tied to fixed accommodation.Consider campervan hire Bournemouth if you want the freedom to explore the Isle of Purbeck's diverse towns while maintaining easy access to a well-equipped coastal city.
Hiring a campervan in the picturesque village of Corfe Castle is ideal for enjoying an irresistible blend of coastline, history and adventure. Enjoy stunning views of the iconic castle as you near the shoreline and find gorgeous golden beaches to spread a blanket and laze in the sunshine. Just a short drive away, the breathtaking Isle of Purbeck entices visitors with its rugged coastline and hidden beaches, ideal for campervan adventures. Spend your day wandering charming villages with narrow streets lined with stone cottages, sample local delights, and hiking the scenic trails that wind past the lush countryside and coastline. As the sun sets, cosy up in your campervan at a lovely campsite and look forward to another beautiful sun, sea and sand day. Our Corfe Castle campervans are also close to campervans for hire in Harman's Cross, campervans for hire in Poole, campervans for hire in Lulworth Cove and campervans for hire in Lytchett Matravers. Browse our selection of 88 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Corfe Castle.
Age: 25-70
Travel: N/A
Gearbox: Manual
Here is my 4 berth Renault Trafic TD, registered in — it has its quirks, but it is well prepared for the adventure of a lifetime.
The charming village of Steeple is a hidden gem amid the sweeping Dorset countryside. Hire a campervan in Steeple and rumble past rolling hills with the sweet scent of wildflowers wafting through your camper windows. Stop at the historic St. Michael’s Church, dating back to the 12th century, or hike to Grange Hill for breathtaking panoramas of green hills and the stunning Jurassic Coast beyond. The settlement is also an excellent base for exploring the Isle of Purbeck. Spend your days wandering the coastal paths of Swanage or discovering the enchanting beauty of Lulworth Cove. Take a look at the range of models we offer with 85 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Steeple. For more campervan options, check out our campervans for hire in Wareham, campervans for hire Winfrith Newburgh, campervans for hire Wool and campervans for hire Swanage.
.The quiet village of Upton, near Poole, is a peaceful base for kicking off your campervan road trip. Start by taking your Upton campervan to Upton Country Park, a tranquil, manicured estate with sprawling gardens, woodlands, and a grand Georgian mansion. Stretch your legs on waterside strolls and spot wildlife at Holes Bay, or take a short drive to Poole Harbour, where you can explore beaches and gorgeous coastal paths. Wander through the vibrant streets of Wareham or take a scenic hike along the Jurassic Coast, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. We list 92 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Upton, and have more campervans for hire in Corfe Mullen, campervans for hire in Sturminster Marshall, campervans for hire in Wimborne and campervans for hire in Ferndown. Take a peak here for more campervans for hire in Isle of Purbeck.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Scooby is a handsome, well-equipped home on wheels, offering a range of comforts for your next road trip. He features comfortable seating, nifty storage spaces, a twin double burner cooker, USB charging, etc.
Farwell to The Isle of Purbeck
And there you have it! A flexible and easy-to-follow campervan road trip guide, with campervan hire locations and campsites, makes planning your road trip to the Isle of Purbeck easier. We’ve visited beautiful spots like Cranborne, Poole and Sherborne and have plenty more exciting stops on our An Itinerary For A Campervan Road Trip Through Dorset. Next, we wander through West Lulworth, a lovely area of Dorset and an absolute must for campervan escapes. Stay tuned!
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