Old Harry Rocks, Chalk formations at Handfast Point, Dorset, England
The white chalk stacks and stumps of Old Harry Rocks rise prominently from the sea, marking the eastern edge of the Jurassic Coast.
The formations date back 84 million years to the Late Cretaceous period, created through the accumulation of marine organisms and sediments.
Local stories connect the name to Harry Paye, a Poole pirate who reportedly used the formations to conceal his ship during coastal raids.
Visitors can reach the formations via a 40-minute walk from Manor Road's South Beach car park along the South West Coast Path.
British pilots during World War II used these chalk formations as target practice, leaving .303 shell cases that divers now find underwater.
Location: Dorset
GPS coordinates: 50.64230,-1.92360
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:37
Fort Henry
1.7 km
Swanage Pier
4.2 km
The Clock Tower
4.2 km
Studland and Godlingston Heath National Nature Reserve
3 km
The Pinnacles
609 m
Ballard Cliff
1.7 km
Parish Church of Saint Nicholas, Studland
1.9 km
Swanage Museum & Heritage Centre
4.4 km
The Anchor Inn
4.5 km
Ship Hotel
4.5 km
Two Ionic Columns In The Forecourt Of The Grosvenor Hotel
4.4 km
King Alfred Memorial
4.3 km
Studland Beach
3 km
Swanage Museum
4.4 km
The Mowlem
4.4 km
Royal Victoria Hotel
4.4 km
Purbeck Hotel
4.5 km
Swanage Library
4.5 km
Gun Emplacement And Fort Henry
1.7 km
Pillbox Below Redend Point
1.7 km
Swanage War Memorial
4.2 km
K6 Telephone Kiosk Outside No 19, High Street (Purbeck Hotel)
4.5 km
2 And 3, Watery Lane
1.6 km
Two K6 Telephone Boxes Outside Library
4.5 km
1 and 2, Cliff Place
4.5 km
The Obelisk On North Hill
3.5 km
Stone Steps To Cliff Place Leading Up From The High Street
4.5 km
Milestone, jct of B3351 and road to beach car parks
2.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes