Tilly Whim Caves, Limestone quarry caves in Durlston Country Park, Dorset, Great Britain
Three interconnected cave chambers carved into coastal cliffs feature square-shaped openings and flat rock ledges positioned directly above the sea at Swanage.
The caves operated as stone quarries during the 18th century, providing limestone materials for fortifications along England's south coast during the Napoleonic Wars.
The name combines references to quarryman George Tilly and the wooden crane system called whim that transported stone blocks from the cliffs to boats.
The caves closed to public access in 1976 due to dangerous rock falls, but visitors can observe the entrance from designated viewpoints in Durlston Country Park.
The abandoned quarry tunnels now function as protected habitats for bat colonies and nesting grounds for various seabird species throughout the year.
GPS coordinates: 50.59250,-1.95752
Latest update: March 2, 2025 20:56
Great Globe
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Durlston Castle
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Anvil Point Lighthouse
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Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre
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The Anchor Inn
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