Clavell Tower

Clavell Tower is a circular stone structure with four floors and classical columns situated on the cliffs of Kimmeridge Bay in Dorset. The building stands approximately 35 feet tall and features a distinctive architectural design typical of 19th-century coastal structures.

The structure was built in 1830 by a local clergyman and initially functioned as an observation point for astronomical study. Later it served as a navigation landmark for seafarers until modern maritime technology reduced the need for such aids.

The tower has drawn writers and appears in literary works that describe its distinctive form and clifftop location. People visit to experience the historical connection to English literature and the stories it has inspired.

The site is reached via a steep coastal path that takes roughly 10 minutes to walk from the nearest parking area. The building now operates as holiday accommodation and requires advance booking to access the interior.

In a remarkable engineering achievement, the entire tower was relocated inland in 2006 to protect it from imminent collapse due to coastal erosion. Thousands of stones were repositioned to reconstruct the building at a safer location.

Location: Kimmeridge

GPS coordinates: 50.60690,-2.13000

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45