August Bank Holiday in Dorset - Sunday
22 people attending
8 places left
Fancy an alternative to Big Summer Camp? Join me for a weekend of hiking and chilling around the campfire on the beautiful Isle of Purbeck in Dorset.
Following on from previous Dorset and Devon Doubles, I thought I'd put on another to make the most of the August Bank Holiday. I'll be leading a walk each day, and depending on other leader availability there may be further options available too. It'll be a nice chilled weekend where you can do as much or as little as you want.
Schedule:
- Day 1 (Saturday) - Corfe Castle to Swanage coastal hike
- Day 2 (Sunday) - Corfe Castle to Studland ridgeway and beach hike (more on below)
- Day 3 (Monday) - Go to the beach and/or head home
The walk:
Sunday's linear walk starts at Corfe Castle and takes in the eastern Purbeck Hills before we arrive at the natural wonders of Old Harry Rocks. We'll then walk along the coast to Studland where you can choose to finish the walk, or continue along the beach to relax and swim (optional). Part of it is a naturist beach so willies may be seen (seriously don't get too excited though). We'll then get the bus back to Swanage to change for the bus or steam train back to Corfe.
Dogs are welcome on the walk but will need to be on the lead at times.
Accommodation options
You'll need to arrange your own accommodation for the weekend.
Camping
The majority of people coming have booked Fri-Mon at Purbeck Valley Farmhouse Campsite - Book here. It's only £10/night. It's basic but has plenty of space and decent facilities, and camp fires & BBQs are permitted. No dogs allowed sadly.
The excellent Woodyhyde Campsite over the road is currently full. There's loads of other campsites around.
B&Bs
There's loads of B&Bs, guest houses and pubs in Corfe Castle. You might be lucky and find some have availability.
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What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking trousers (ideally water resistant): These will be more comfortable than Jeans which are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof over-trousers: Essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: Allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof jacket: Essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: Essential both in mid winter to preserve heat and in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Gloves: Essential in frosty weather.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglasses: April-Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye
Water: Even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: A packed lunch will be required. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these. Please bring and apply a high-factor sun cream.
Food & drink
Bring plenty of food, snacks and drinks. Although a short walk it will be exposed to full sun in the hottest part of the day. A pub visit could be in the offing at the end of the walk in Studland if regulations permit.