This has to be one of my favourite days out and you can go to the same place and have a very different experience.
You will see on the main picture ‘Poppy’ and my big sister, kayaking around Old Harry Rocks. I’ve taken Poppy out kayaking every time I’ve been out and she loves it, although she was sick on the kayak this session from drinking so much sea water but other that, she loves it.
We launched from Knoll Beach in Studland. I have to say, Studland beach is completely different to most other beaches. When I’m here I could equally be on the coast of Mexico, its foreign and wild but safe, if that makes sense. There is a natural barrier with sand dunes and wildlife to walk through to get to the beach.
Knoll Beach, Studland, Dorset, BH19 3AQ
The water is clear and the beach is sandy, surrounded by protected sand dunes with Old Harry Rocks in the distance. There are lots of families and lots to do from dingy sailing, hiring kayaks and peddle boats to paddleboarding and diving. This beach belongs to the National Trust, so the car park is quite expensive but its worth paying, they give parking tickets on the main road with yellow lines. There is also a sauna on the beach but it gets booked up, so might have to pre-book and there is a café, shop and water sports centre. Dogs are welcome on Knoll Beach and adds to the family feel. There is lots to do and see and if you have enough of the beach, take the short coastal walk to the Banks Arms, BH19 3AU for some refreshments and a cool glass of pop.
Old Harry Rocks, Studland, Dorset
Old Harry Rocks is a stunning location. Its natural beauty, historical significance, and abundance of wildlife make it a unique and special place to visit. Whether you’re a adventurer, nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful spot, Old Harry Rocks will impress.
You can either can walk along the Coast to the spit and see the views the cliffs this way, or in my opinion the best way to see Old Harry Rocks is by Kayak. I launched my kayak from Knoll beach and kayaked across and along to the spit, well on my way to Swanage. However, this is very much weather dependant. Knoll Beach to Old Harry Rocks is shallow, well protected in the bay. On this fine day (below) the water was calm and perfect for Kayaking into the open waters.
(SAFTEY NOTE: Whether you are on the cliffs looking down the sheer cliff edges, or in the kayak, you must be aware of rocks falling into the sea and / or land slide. The answer, is not to go too near the cliff edge and do not swim / kayak directly under the cliff edges.)
Old Harry Rocks is a chalk formation with a stack and a stump on the Jurassic coast and a UNESCO World heritage site. You can see how the sea water forces itself into the cracks opening them up, creating caves, then arches and then a stack. The stump was Old Harrys Wife, until the top of the stump fell away.
These chalk ridges were formed 65 million years ago when under the shallow water. Calcium deposits from sea creatures dying and slowly building up over millions of years to create this chalk. Plate tectonics brough this chalk above sea level before the last ice age. The area is rich in fossils, a glimpse of creatures once living here.
Old Harry Rocks is a must see destination for anyone visiting Dorset.
Its natural beauty, historical significance, and abundance of wildlife make it a unique and special place to visit. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, Old Harry Rocks will impress.
Kayaking at Old Harry Rocks, Dorset
Old Harry Rocks, Studland, Dorset
How long does it take from Summerbreeze Orchard to Knoll Beach, Studland?
It takes approximately one hour and whilst you can drive around Poole Harbour, I normally use the sandbanks chain ferry across into Studland, which cost around a fiver (and we like it).
Can I take my dog to Knoll Beach, Studland?
Yes. This beach is dog friendly. However, its worth noting during the summer months (1st May to 1st September) due to lots of families and other dogs, they must be kept on a lead no more than 2 meters away from you.
About our Holiday Cottages
Summerbreeze Orchard is located one hour from Knoll Beach, Studland and Old Harry Rocks. The holiday cottages are ideally located close to the New Forest, Bournemouth and Poole – leading to the Sandbanks chain ferry across to Studland. An ideal base from which to explore the Jurassic Coastline but also the natural beauty and tranquillity of the surrounding New Forest. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, our holiday cottages in Dorset offer a unique blend of luxury and comfort and an easy location to explore the Jurassic coastline and New Forest.
Close by is: Durdle Door – check this out
