The Isle of Portland can be reached over a causeway from Chesil Beach. Famous for its Portland Stone, charming lighthouse and popular spots for watersports
It’s also an area rich with history, legends and myths, most notably of pirates.
Portland used to be a frequent haunt for pirates with tales of smuggling, murder and shipwrecks.
It is here, nestled within the cliffs of Church Ope Cove, that you’ll come across the legendary pirate’s graveyard.
A place that everyone can enjoy, spark imagination, and bring adventure to your trip to Portland.
With skulls and crossbones carved into the gravestones and ancient ruins, this is an interesting place to explore.
Here’s a guide on how to get to Church Ope Cove, The Pirate’s Graveyard and what you’ll see along the way.
The car park is easy to find and is free for up to 2 hours. It is small, so bear that in mind when visiting.
📍 Museum Church Ope, Pennsylvania Road, Portland, DT5 1HT
Once parked up, turn left out of the car park, head towards the Portland Museum, walk past and follow the road around to the right towards Church Ope Cove.
The museum is a lovely visit for anyone interested in the history of Portland; there’s a small charge for entry.
There’s a small gift shop and a lovely garden to enjoy once you enter.
Along the way, you’ll come across Rufus Castle, a spectacular sight overlooking the sea. Known as the ‘bow and arrow’ castle, built in the 12th century and named after King William II, known as William Rufus.
Though privately owned, visitors can admire the castle’s exterior from public footpaths.
Passing past Rufus Castle, you’re met by amazing views of the cove and the ocean stretching on as far as the eye can see.
Turn right and follow the long and steep stairs down towards the cove. If you carry on to the bottom, you’ll reach the beach.
Follow the stairs to halfway down and you’re one step closer to the graveyard.
Once you’ve reached halfway, to your right, you’ll spot an almost hidden set of steps.
It’s a tucked-away surprise. Climb the steps until you reach the open space full of headstones and ruins.
The child in you will feel the thrill of adventure as you explore the area.
Please note: You must be able-bodied and have appropriate footwear on whilst doing this, as the area is uneven with lots of different paths and terrain.
The ruins of St Andrews Church sit within the cliff top, it was the first known Parish church in Portland and has been left abandoned and ruins from invasions, landslips and a fire in 1665. It is believed to have been around since Saxon times.
Today, it adds to the atmosphere of The Pirates Graveyard, overgrown and home to local wildlife and plants.
The gravestones are all around the area. Skull and crossbones, hourglasses, and other unusual carvings are engraved on the headstones.
Many legends surround the graveyard, such as pirates being buried alive here and a woman murdered by a pirate.
Another was of a pirate who terrorised the Caribbean and returned to ruin his native home in Dorset.
Unfortunately, these are probably just wives’ tales that have gone on for generations in Portland.
Historians have said that the graves probably belong to well-respected members of the community; it was commonplace to have a skull and cross bones on a grave in the 16th and 17th centuries as it was an indication of death.
Alas, the tales of pirates aren’t real, but who’s to say you can’t use your imagination?
If you’re visiting with young ones it’s a brilliant way to spend the time with tales of pirates and buried treasure.
Going back on yourself and out to the main steps, you can turn right and follow them down to the beach. Church Ope Cove is a popular spot for wild swims and diving.
Although the beach is pebble and stone, it’s still a fun place for all the family.
Stacking rocks and skimming stones is great fun for little ones, whilst a picnic in the sun in a beautiful cove is a perfect way to spend your day.
Plus you can get fit by climbing the neverending steps back up to the car park.
Have fun on your pirate adventure!
📍 Pennsylvania Rd, Isle of Portland, Portland DT5 1HT
