Pictures of Langton Matravers

About Langton Matravers

This is an interesting old village with access to one of the loveliest stretches of the Dorset coast. It has a long association with quarrying which has existed in these parts since Roman times. The beautiful Purbeck stone continued to be mined in the region until an order of closure in 1963.

The village has several interesting cottages and larger properties of note, but its most illustrious feature is its church dedicated to St.George, possibly the 4th church to be built on the site. The west wall of the present church shows remains of a chapel built around 1290, the tower is an addition of 1390. The former medieval church was taken down and reconstructed in 1829, save for the tower. During this time the church was used for smuggling activities, its roof became unsafe, and as a result the church was again demolished and rebuilt in 1876. The church is well worth a visit, it has a handsome exterior and a lovely interior showing many church treasures. In the churchyard visitors can see a number of old graves and tombstones.

Langton Matravers is just a short drive from Swanage, thus the scenery is superb with lovely walks along the Purbeck heritage Coastal path. Corfe Castle is within easy reach and don't miss a trip on the Swanage Railway Heritage Line which runs between Swanage and Corfe Castle.

This is an ideal place from which to explore the Isle of Purbeck, Poole Harbour and Studland Bay.