Hidden away on the Dorset cliffs on St Aldhelm’s head near the charming village of Worth Matravers lies the hidden gem of St Aldhelm’s Chapel.
Steeped in history, this small yet stunning chapel is a true treasure trove of architectural beauty and religious significance.
Originally built in the 12th century, this tranquil place of worship has remained a sacred site for over 800 years and has seen its fair share of tumultuous events throughout its long and storied history.
Despite its small size, St Aldhelm’s Chapel boasts an impressive legacy that has earned it a reputation as a fine example of Norman architecture in this country.
For visitors who love exploring history, architecture, and natural beauty, St Aldhelm’s Chapel is the perfect destination.
With its serene setting, fascinating history, and breathtaking surroundings, a visit to this charming chapel is sure to be a memorable experience that will stay with you for years to come.
A Brief History of St Aldhelm’s Chapel
St Aldhelm’s Chapel is a truly unique historical site that offers a glimpse into the early Christian era in England.
The Chapel is located on the cliffs of St Aldhelm’s Head, which towers 108 metres above sea level in the parish of Worth Matravers, near Swanage, Dorset.
St Aldhelm’s Chapel is surrounded by earthen mounds, which suggest that it was built on the site of a pre-Conquest Christian enclosure.
It is thought to have been built in the 12th century, but it may rest on an earlier timber building.
The unusual design and shape of the Chapel have puzzled visitors for centuries.
The building’s angles point to the cardinal points of the compass, and its 7.77-metre square shape is most unusual for an ecclesiastical building.
However, the beautiful vaulting of the 12th century roof and the existence of mediaeval graves outside the walls suggest that it was a religious building from the beginning.
Legends and rumors abound about the Chapel’s early history, including a tale about a bride and groom who were drowned in a storm and whose desolate father built the Chapel in their memory.
The Chapel has served various purposes over the centuries. It was believed to have been originally used as a chantry, where a priest would celebrate mass for the safety of sailors.
During the 17th century, it was used as a wishing chapel, where young girls would drop a pin into a hole in the central pillar and make a wish.
In the 19th century, St Aldhelm’s Chapel was restored for worship and became a popular site for annual feast days and club days.
Today, St Aldhelm’s Chapel is regularly used for Christian worship and attracts pilgrims and visitors from near and afar.
It is a rare and special monument that offers a fascinating glimpse into the early Christian history of England.
Location and directions to St Aldhelm’s Chapel
Perched on the cliffs of St Aldhelm’s Head, St Aldhelm’s Chapel offers an unparalleled view of the dramatic Dorset coast.
It is located next to the coast guard watch station.
You can find the chapel by following the path that runs along the clifftops from the nearby village of Worth Matravers.
A route that I recommend is walking from Worth Matravers car park down through the village and to Winspit Quarry which is a beautiful hidden gem in Dorset’s coastline.
Then once you’ve checked out the quarry, you can walk up along the coastal path (approx 1.5 miles) till you reach the coast guard watch station, and then you’ll see the chapel about 100 feet away on the right.
Once you reach the chapel, take a moment to catch your breath and soak in the stunning views of the rugged coastline and the English Channel beyond.
A shorter alternative route you can go from Worth Matravers car park is to walk down the hill towards the pond in the village and go down the left side to Pikes Ln and continue onto Weston Rd.
Then turn left onto Bonvils Rd and continue until you can turn right and then walk along and turn left at the next available opportunity.
Now follow along until you reach St Aldhelm’s Chapel.
Here is the route and location on a Google Map.
Points of Interest Near St Aldhelm’s Head
If you’re visiting St Aldhelm’s Chapel, there as some other really beautiful spots worth visiting close by.
As I mentioned before, one such location is the nearby Winspit Quarry, a place that is steeped in history and provides a glimpse into the area’s past as a centre of industry.
The quarry was once a hub of activity, producing a high-quality stone that was used in the construction of buildings and monuments throughout the region.
Today, it is a popular destination for hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to explore the abandoned quarry and its eerie echoing tunnels.
Winspit Quarry is not only a beautiful location but also the set of film and TV shows.
From the classic Doctor Who and Blake 7 TV series to the epic Star Wars franchise, the quarry has been a sought-after location for filmmakers.
The location was also featured as a scene location for the ‘Orkney Dig’ in the 2012 Disney film John Carter.
With its unique and atmospheric setting, you can see why Winspit Quarry has been used in the film and TV industry.
Another must-visit location near St Aldhelm’s Chapel is Chapman’s Pool.
This secluded cove tucked away at the base of the towering cliffs of St Aldhelm’s Head, is a place of breathtaking natural beauty.
As you walk along the winding footpaths that lead to Chapman’s Pool, you’ll be struck by the sense of peace and tranquillity that surrounds you.
The only sounds you’ll hear are the gentle lapping of the waves and the cries of the seabirds overhead.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a moment of quiet contemplation, Chapman’s Pool is a destination that is not to be missed.
Pictures of Inside St Aldhem’s chapel
Folk Tales and Legends Associated With St Aldhelm’s Chapel
St Aldhelm’s Chapel has a few folk tales and legends associated with it.
According to one story, in 1140, a bride and groom were sailing around the headland when a sudden storm capsized their boat, causing both of them to drown.
In response to this tragedy, the bride’s father built the chapel in their memory, and a light was always kept burning to warn other sailors.
Another legend that surrounds the chapel is the story of a colony of lepers that lived nearby.
It is said that an unknown woman was buried near the chapel, and her grave was surrounded by upright stones.
Some have speculated that she may have been an anchoress who led a holy life near the chapel and looked after the lepers.
The true identity of the woman buried at the site remains a mystery.
There is also a tradition that the chapel was used as a wishing chapel in the 17th century.
Young girls would drop a pin, possibly a hairpin, into a hole in the central pillar and make a wish, perhaps for the husband of their choice.
This custom may have been a very old way of making an offering to the priest for prayer for the safety of friends at sea.
While these stories may be just myths, they add to the mystique and allure of St Aldhelm’s Chapel, making it a fascinating destination for visitors looking to explore the history and legends of the area.
If you liked learning about St Alhelm’s Chapel, you’d like this article we did which covers other great things you can do in and near Swanage.
