Get the most from the coast
Explore the Jurassic Coast with crabbing or coasteering. Fish for mackerel, walk for fun. Spot seals and dolphins in the surf. Eat heartily with fish and chips on the harbour wall, Michelin-starred dining, or summon up a chef back at base.
Beaches and Castles
Rufus Castle is also known as Bow and Arrow Castle and is a ruined 12th century grade 1 listed castle overlooking Church Ope Cove. The ruins today are the remains of the late 15th century castle built on the earlier remains.
Portland Castle, one of Henry VIII’s finest coastal forts, was built in the 1540s to protect against French and Spanish invasion. Today you can tour the Tudor kitchen and step inside the Great Hall to come face to face with King Henry himself. Enjoy stunning sea views from the gun platforms, and get close to the powerful cannons.
Church Ope Cove is a sheltered beach on the eastern side of Portland lying just below The Castle on the Coast. The beach used to be all sand but now stone debris from quarrying covers the sand and over the years the stones have been rounded into pebbles. These pebbles also cover a small stream which is one of the few streams in all of Portland.
Portland Bill is famous across the world, mostly for its lighthouse. Over the course of its history there have actually been 3 lighthouses and they all still stand today. The Old Higher Lighthouse dates all the way back to 1716 and is a private residence.
Kid's Ahoy!
Monkey World is an internationally-acclaimed ape rescue centre set in 65 acres of beautiful Dorset woodland and home to over 230 primates – including the largest group of chimps outside Africa. The park is imaginatively laid out and has a huge climbing area for children.
Swanage Railway runs steam and diesel trains from Norden and Corfe Castle into Swanage and back. Norden Park and Ride offers the simplest parking option. Bovington Tank Museum houses the world’s broadest and best collection of tanks. Follow the Tank Story, take a look at almost 150 tanks in the Discovery Centre, and check out Tank Displays.
Farmer Palmers Farm Park is a short drive away – great fun for the under 8s.
On the top of the island, near Church Ope Cove is Portland’s Museum, founded by Dr Marie Stopes. One of only two thatched buildings on the island it holds stories from the islands maritime and smuggling era, pirates, war-time and stonemasonry.
For the Grown Ups
Country pursuits can be arranged close by to the house, including clay pigeon shooting, quad biking or even sailing. Horse riding, cycle hire and water sports are also on offer.
A bit of luxury – chartered boats can be arranged for you to go out in the Olympic sailing waters during your stay, with powers boats, yachts including Sunseekers available from Portland Harbour.
If you would like to indulge in some beauty and health pampering our expert beauty therapists offer a full range of treatments. Get all the luxury of a visit to a five star spa in the comfort of your own seaside escape.
We’ve top class chefs available to create and serve a special three course dinner, drop off ready meals when you arrive, or serve a classic brunch on Sunday morning. Or book a chef for the week and relax.
