Corfe Dorset

Corfe is steeped in history. Evidence can be found right back to 6000 BC of several burial mounds on the southern edge of the village. King Alfred the Saxon King built Corfe's Gate Castle and a herringbone wall thought to be part of the original castle stands within the grounds of the present castle. Norman King William the Conqueror built on the site around 1090 AD and his son King Henry developed the site. The castle was blown up by the Roundhead during the civil war in 1645 when it was owned by the Bankes family.

Corfe got its name from the Saxon word for gap as it is equal distances between Swanage and Wareham. Situated in the heart of the "Isle of Purbeck" and nestled between the coast and hills,

The Village of Corfe is a great place to visit. Found on the A351 road to Swanage. Car parks are available or you could arrive by one of the Swanage steam trains that run between Nordon and Swanage.

Corfe Castle "The dramatic ruins of Corfe Castle stand on a natural hill guarding the principal route through the Purbeck Hills. As you can see it guards the gap between the south of Purbeck, where Purbeck marble was once quarried, and the rest of England. Nothing could pass in or out without going past the Castle."Opening Times and Addmission Prices

Corfe Castle Model Village Wander down this beautiful garden to look at how the castle would of looked like before its destruction in 1645. Commissioned by local business man Mr. Eddie Holland and opened to the public in 1966. This 1/20th scale model was hand crafted by local builder Jack Phillips.

The garden fires up the imagination of the children with stories of fairies and goblins. There is a wooden train to sit on, giant drafts and a Hi-Tower game. Garden enthusiast will find lots of labels on trees and plants and a place to buy cuttings from the garden out at the entrance by the cafe.

This is a fascinating place for adults and children and well worth a visit. Opening Times and Addmission Prices

Wander round the Corfe village and look at the houses, some dating from the 16th Century. Spot the stones from the old ruined castle that can be found in the walls of the local houses. Opposite the Corfe Castle Model Village there is small museum showing local photos and artifacts taken from Corfe's past. The National Trust shop found further up the same road provides a place to buy tourist/historical information and goods. The Ginger Pop Shop found in Corfe Village Square is perfect for adults and children who enjoy the works of Enid Blyton. Housing over 150 titles and book sets, traditional wooden toys and games and a fridge full of ginger beer! The owner Vivienne Endecott is superb at inspiring young minds and offers a wealth of information on Enid Blyton.

Walking in Dorset

The Story of Corfe Castle

Youtube - Corfe Castle

Swanage Railway"The award-winning Swanage Railway currently operates on the six miles of track between Swanage and Norden, through the beautiful Isle of Purbeck, passing the magnificent ruins of Corfe Castle. " Timetables

Park at Nordon and travel to Swanage and Corfe. Plenty of car spaces, toilets and a great childrens play area can all be found at Nordon train station. When you arrive at Corfe Station look at for the Boilerhouse Gallery, it exhibits local artists and can be found right by the east side of the tracks by the bridge.