Corfe Castle

Venue information

 Corfe is a small village situated in-between the Purbeck Hills in Dorset. The village is best known for its impressive castle that stands high above the village centre and is an iconic survivor of the English Civil War. Despite the castle being over one thousand years old, its ruins have been carefully restored and are now cared for by the National Trust. The late Ralph Bankes left the castle to the National Trust in 1981.

The castle boasts breathtaking views from the top and there are plenty of interesting footpaths to explore in the local area, which let you view the castle from different angles. One of the best afternoon shots of Corfe can be had from the hills around Church Knowle, which is roughly 3/4 mile south west of the castle ruins. To get there, take the road opposite the main visitor centre on the A351 and follow the public footpath up West Hill. If you’re looking for an early morning shot of the castle, it’s best to visit it in the winter months, when you’re likely to capture it in the early morning mist. Look out for a road on the right that leads up and under the railway bridge as you drive out of the village. The public footpath up East Hill, offers an excellent viewpoint of the castle for morning shots. If you fancy learning about more fascinating walks in and around the Purbeck Hills, a Corfe Common walk leaflet can be picked up from the National Trust shop, which is located at the foot of the castle ruins.

It’s worth knowing that Corfe is a very small village and parking can be difficult in peak times. There are additional roads near the castle that are suitable for parking, but the best means of transport is the local park and ride scheme from Norden station. All trains stop at Corfe Castle and it’s only a 7-minute walk from the platform to the castle and village. Park and ride tickets can also be purchased, should you fancy visiting the seaside at Swanage.

If you’re making a trip to Dorset a visit wouldn’t be complete without taking a look at Corfe Castle. It’s an excellent visitor attraction and makes a marvelous landscape photography location in the right lighting conditions. We recommend that you get up early and visit the castle during sunrise for the most dramatic lighting.

Andrew Stevens Image of Corfe Castle

Camera: Canon 300D
Lens: 18-55mm lens at 21mm
EXIF: 1/4s at f/13, ISO 100 -2/3 exposure compensation.
Tripod: Manfrotto MF3 + RC322 head
Time of shot: 6.09am