Sandsfoot Castle
Sandsfoot Castle’s picturesque location by the sea, with the backdrop of Portland Harbour and the Isle of Portland itself beyond, makes for a perfect area to relax and admire some spectacular views. The gardens surrounding the castle have been lovingly cared for and there is an on-site café.
Almost 500 years ago in 1539, Sandsfoot Castle was constructed by order of King Henry VIII as a coastal defence mechanism for Weymouth and Portland. It consisted of two storeys and a basement, but since Portland Harbour’s protective breakwater wasn’t built until 1875, the castle was frequently damaged by the surrounding seas.
Efforts were made to repair the castle, but ultimately it was considered unsuitable for continued military service. It was used as a place for storage, but later abandoned, and has become an iconic ruin over the years.
Today the area is well-maintained by the local council, working closely with the Friends of Rodwell Trail and Sandsfoot Castle. The site is well worth a visit, being the ideal place to stop for a picnic or just to explore the gardens and see the castle ruins.
Sandsfoot Castle and gardens are just a couple of minutes away from two beaches and the Rodwell Trail which makes a for a great day out for all. This is why so many people often love visiting Sandsfoot.
How to get there
Sandsfoot Castle can be accessed from Old Castle Road in Weymouth and there is limited, free on-road parking upon arrival. Or, if on foot, it can be found just off the Rodwell Trail.
Please share or leave a comment
More Places of Interest
Places to Go
Find places to go and things to do in Dorset using the options below.
Attractions
Activities
Pubs & Restaurants
Holiday Parks
Shops & Services
Vouchers & OffersDorset Events
Latest Dorset Features
Portland & Weymouth Revealed!
Reveal - Portland & Weymouth Towns of Culture 2025 is a celebration of the vibrant cultural scene in Portland and Weymouth. Showcasing the rich tapestry of artistic expression, local talent, and diverse events that define the two towns. Join in, exploring the unique stories, traditions, and creativity that make Portland and Weymouth the cultural gems of 2025.
What to expect!
Thanks to funding from the Arts Development Company, Portland ... Read more...
Bridport's Historic Street Market
One of our favourite weekend treats is a visit to the fabulous year-round Bridport Market, which runs on Wednesday and Saturdays, the latter being the busier of the two days.
Stalls offer a mix of everything and anything, with furniture, antiques, collectables, toys, chocolate brownies, vinyl records, local prints, vintage fashion, socks, walking sticks, organic fruit and vegetables, macramé, rugs, hand-made goods, cheese, local ... Read more...
We’ve been talking to Fiona Elliott from Dorsetmums. When her children were quite young, Fiona started up her own website, social media and blog to share her family's experiences visiting Dorset attractions and businesses. Fiona’s children are now 8 and 12 years old, and have visited many of the area’s tourist attractions and activity centres, so as a family they know what makes for a good day out! Last summer they visited the Nothe Fort in Weymouth: check out how ... Read more...