Have you ever wondered what secrets lie within the ancient ruins scattered across Dorset?
These sites, from medieval castles to Roman temples, hold tales of intrigue, war, and community.
How do these remnants of history continue to captivate us today?
Join us as we explore 15 of Dorset’s most fascinating ancient ruins.
Table of Contents
Sandsfoot Castle
Sandsfoot Castle, also known as Weymouth Castle, is a captivating ruin located in Dorset.
Built by Henry VIII in 1539, it was designed to protect England from potential invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire.
It was part of a chain of forts built along the south coast.
Perched on a cliff between Weymouth and Portland, the castle offers stunning views of the coastline.
It’s an important part of England’s history, with its ruins offering a glimpse into the past.
In 2021, it was closed to the public due to safety reasons; you can still get up close; however, there is a fence surrounding the ruins to prevent anyone from entering.
📍 39 Old Castle Rd, Weymouth DT4 8QE
Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle is a must-see ruin and one of the most famous landmarks in Dorset.
This dramatic structure, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, stands proudly above the village of Corfe.
Perched on the Isle of Purbeck, this fortress played a crucial role during the English Civil War and offers breathtaking views over the Purbeck Hills.
Visitors can enjoy various activities, including walks through the ruins and scenic trails around the surrounding hills.
The National Trust manages the castle, providing detailed historical insights and activities for all ages.
📍 The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5EZ
The Ruins Milton Abbas
The Ruins in Milton Abbas is a fascinating example of early 19th-century architecture.
This ruin is a Gothic-style folly made of ashlar stone. It was designed to look like part of a medieval church. It includes a chancel and a section of a transept.
The main structure has large, pointed arched openings, but there’s no evidence of tracery.
Similar openings are found in other walls of the ruin. The building is, unfortunately, in a state of disrepair but remains a charming piece of architecture to explore.
📍 Milton Abbas, Dorset, DT11
Knowlton Church
Knowlton Church is a remarkable site in Dorset, blending history and mystery.
Built in the 12th century, the church sits at the heart of a Neolithic ritual henge earthwork.
The ruins are fascinating, with Norman architecture visible in its arches and doorways. This makes it a captivating visit for history lovers and architectural enthusiasts alike.
Interestingly, the church served a vanished hamlet by the riverside until the 17th century.
Its abandonment adds to the site’s haunting aura, and its Grade II listing underscores its historic significance.
📍 Lumber Lane, Cranborne BH21 5AE
Sherborne Old Castle
Sherborne Old Castle is a fascinating ruin.
Originally built as a bishop’s palace in the 12th century, it later became the home of Sir Walter Ralegh, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I.
He transformed it into a magnificent residence.
This castle saw action during the English Civil War. It became a powerful Royalist base and faced fierce battles.
Subsequently, forces led by Oliver Cromwell captured it, leaving behind the ruins we see today.
Visitors are captivated by the peaceful surroundings, rich history, and mix of wildlife that occupies the castle today.
The castle offers a glimpse into medieval architecture and the turbulent times of the 17th century.
It’s also a wonderful spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
📍Castleton, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3SA
Rufus Castle
Rufus Castle, also known as Bow and Arrow Castle, stands proudly on the Isle of Portland.
Built on a rocky promontory, this 15th-century castle offers breathtaking views over Church Ope Cove.
The ruins hold a fascinating history connected to King William II, also known as William Rufus.
The castle’s distinctive pentagonal shape, along with remnants of its Norman keep, makes it a unique sight.
Though partially in ruins, the structure still captivates visitors by the sheer beauty of its cliffside location.
Nestled nearby are the ruins of St. Andrew’s Church and the picturesque Church Ope Cove, enhancing the charm of the visit.
📍 Portland DT5 1JA
Christchurch Castle and Norman House
Christchurch Castle is a splendid example of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle.
The castle was started by Richard de Redvers around 1100.
Nearby, the Norman House, built around 1160, showcases grand domestic Norman architecture.
This stone structure is rare and adds a unique historical charm.
Significant features include the castle’s keep and Norman chimney, considered the oldest in Britain.
Read more about Christchurch Castle and Norman House here.
📍 Castle St, Christchurch BH23 1DT
The Church at Stanton St Gabriel
Stanton St Gabriel is home to the ruins of a 13th-century church.
The ancient church walls are still standing, providing a glimpse into the past. This once-thriving place of worship was abandoned in the 19th century.
In 1840, a new church was built a mile away in Morcombelake. The vicar of Whitchurch Canonicorum funded this new structure.
This helped relocate important items, like a font with a cable moulding.
The old site also includes the remains of a medieval rood beam.
Visitors can explore these ruins on the western slopes of Golden Cap. The area is also known for its beautiful landscapes and is part of the National Trust.
📍 Bridport DT6 6EP (Golden Cap postcode)
St Andrew’s Church, Portland
St Andrew’s Church is a fascinating site on the Isle of Portland.
This ruined church stands above Church Ope Cove, the area is steeped in history, making it a must-visit for anyone intrigued by ancient architecture.
Once the first parish church of Portland, St Andrew’s was key to the community. It served its purpose until the mid-18th century, when it fell into ruin.
The churchyard around the ruins is popularly known as the “Pirates Graveyard.” This adds an extra layer of mystery and allure to the site.
Walking around, visitors can almost imagine the tales of old pirates from centuries past.
📍 Pennsylvania Rd, Isle of Portland, Portland DT5 1HT (address for Church Ope Cove which is situated underneath the ruins)
Roman Townhouse
The Roman Townhouse in Dorchester is an exciting glimpse into Britain’s ancient past.
It’s the only fully visible Roman townhouse in the country, dating back to the 4th century AD. The site features stunning mosaic floors and well-preserved foundation walls.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours and even handle real Roman objects. It’s located just a five-minute walk from the town centre, making it easily accessible.
📍 Dorchester DT1 1XE
Hell Stone Dolmen
Hell Stone Dolmen is a Neolithic monument located on Portesham Hill in Dorset.
This ancient site, also known as a long barrow, was constructed around the same time as other notable landmarks in the region.
The Dolmen was restored in 1866 by antiquarians. They set upright the huge stones that form a stone chamber and capped them with another large stone.
The restoration efforts made the Hell Stone Dolmen more accessible to visitors.
This site also carries fascinating legends. One such story claims that the Devil threw the rocks from Portland in a game of quoits.
The Hell Stone Dolmen is situated near the Hardy Monument and the village of Portesham.
📍 Portesham, Weymouth DT3 4EY
The Nine Stones
Nestled in a wooded glade near Winterbourne Abbas, Dorset, The Nine Stones stand as a silent testament to prehistoric times.
Approximately 4,000 years old, this Neolithic stone circle captures the imagination with its mysterious origins.
The stones are arranged in a near circle with a maximum diameter of 26 feet (8 metres). Despite their small size, they create an aura of ancient intrigue.
Visitors find the site just yards from the busy A35, yet it remains a peaceful and reflective spot.
The mix of large and small stones adds to the enigma, with some stones potentially larger beneath the surface.
📍 A35, Dorchester DT2 9LX
Jordan Hill Roman Temple
Jordan Hill Roman Temple is a fascinating Romano-Celtic site located on Jordan Hill above Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth.
Built around the 4th century AD, the temple offers breathtaking views of Weymouth Bay and the South Dorset Downs.
The temple was used for religious ceremonies and rituals, possibly devoted to a pre-Roman or Romanized deity.
Its foundations and a large walled sanctuary are still visible.
Excavations in the 19th and early 20th centuries revealed much about its history and usage.
The site is maintained by English Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations to explore and enjoy.
📍 Bowleaze Coveway, Weymouth DT3 6PL
Maiden Castle
Maiden Castle is a stunning example of an Iron Age hillfort.
Just 1.6 miles southwest of Dorchester, it is one of the largest and most complex in Europe.
The site spans the size of 50 football pitches and boasts massive ramparts built mainly in the 1st century BC.
The fort’s ramparts were designed to protect its hundreds of residents. The chalky white glow of the fort’s defences must have been a formidable sight.
Its historical significance is rich, with evidence of Neolithic, Bronze Age, and early Iron Age activity.
The modifications over centuries have left a distinctive layout on this saddle-backed hilltop.
📍 Maiden Castle Rd, Dorchester DT2 9PP
Maumbury Rings
Maumbury Rings is located in the south of Dorchester. This ancient structure is a Neolithic henge. It boasts an impressive circular earthwork that stretches 85 metres in diameter.
It captivates visitors with its historical significance and unique features.
Built thousands of years ago, it initially served as a henge. Later, during the Roman period, it was transformed into an amphitheatre.
The English Civil War added another layer of history as the site was remodelled for use as an artillery fort.
📍 Weymouth Ave, Dorchester DT1 1QZ
2 comments
Thank you for some wonderful information on Dorset.
I can see we will be busy next year seeking these sights out.
Thank you for all the excellent information – have started to visit them