Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks is a unique structure that consists of separated white chalk stacks, and it marks the east point of the 95 mile stretch of Jurassic Coast. In the 18th Century, Old Harry had a partner stack known as its ‘wife’ – yet this no longer exists due to natural erosion.
But, Old Harry Rocks stand strong, offering a great place to watch the to and fro of ferries as they make their way in and out of Poole Harbour, often visiting Jersey and Cherbourg in France.
Before visiting, it’s worth gaining an insight into how Old Harry Rocks was formed and reading some useful information.
How was Old Harry Rocks formed?
The three chalk stacks were once joined, where a long stretch of chalk lied between Purbeck and the Isle of Wight. Due to the force of the ocean, sea began to enter cracks in the chalk structure and eroded certain areas, leaving what we see today – Old Harry Rocks. You’ll notice that some short stacks remain, where their height caused them to collapse when the rock was weakened.
Why is it called Old Harry Rocks?
A number of legends answer why the stacks of chalk were named ‘Old Harry Rocks’. Was it because the devil, Harry, slept on the rocks? Was it because Harry Paye, a Poole pirate hid his ship behind the rocks from merchantmen? Or, was it because Harold the Viking was drowned there during a storm? We’ll let you decide…
How to get there
Old Harry Rocks is situated just off of Studland Bay, so you’ll be sure to find it when navigating to Studland. The closest car park, South Beach Car Park, is just a short walk away from Old Harry Rocks. For this car park, navigate to BH19 3AU.
Map of Old Harry Rocks
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...