Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle occupies one of England’s most dramatic defensive positions—a natural gap in the Purbeck Hills fortified since the 11th century. The ruins that crown the hilltop are fragments of a once-mighty royal fortress that witnessed centuries of intrigue and ultimately, one of the English Civil War’s most famous sieges.
The castle’s position is its genius. William the Conqueror built a fortification shortly after 1066. By medieval times, Corfe was one of England’s most formidable royal strongholds. Then came the Civil War. Lady Bankes defended the castle for the Royalist cause for three years. When it finally fell, Parliament ordered its systematic destruction. But the construction was so solid that even deliberate demolition couldn’t completely destroy it.
Exploring the Ruins: Climbing through Corfe is genuinely atmospheric. Narrow spiral staircases ascend to ramparts with sweeping views across Purbeck, Poole Harbour, and on clear days to the Isle of Wight.
The village of Corfe Castle clusters at the hill’s base—one of England’s prettiest villages with stone cottages lining narrow streets. Independent shops, traditional pubs, and tearooms create ideal post-castle refreshment.
Useful info:
Time needed at destination: Half day
Average travel time: 35 minutes
Nathan and Laura's English tip:
Corfe Castle ranks among England’s finest castle ruins. The climb requires reasonable fitness—wear appropriate footwear. We often combine Corfe with the Swanage Steam Railway or pair it with Kingston Lacy to tell the Bankes family’s complete story. Early morning or late afternoon light creates the most dramatic photography.
