Winspit Quarry | Worth Matravers | Dorset | BH19 3LW
Winspit Quarry is a disused stone quarry carved into the dramatic coastal cliffs near Worth Matravers on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The stone extracted here was highly prized and used in a number of prestigious buildings in London.
During the eighteenth century, more than 200 quarries operated across Swanage, Langton Matravers and Worth Matravers. At Winspit, stone was taken directly from the cliff face and mined through caves and tunnels, creating the distinctive caverns visible today.
Quarrying continued at Winspit until 1940, when the site was repurposed during the Second World War as a naval and air base. Evidence of this period can still be seen in the tunnels and chambers cut deep into the rock.
After the war, the privately owned caves were opened to the public. Some areas have since been closed for safety reasons and to protect important bat populations, including greater horseshoe and mouse-eared bats.
Despite access restrictions in certain areas, Winspit Quarry remains popular with climbers and walkers. The site offers a mix of coastal paths, caves and cliff-top viewpoints, with spectacular sea views across the Channel. A small beach below the quarry is also known for swimming during calm conditions.
Distance from Woodyhyde Campsite: approximately 20 minutes by car or via a scenic coastal walk through Worth Matravers.
Book your stay at Woodyhyde Campsite and explore Winspit Quarry as part of your Jurassic Coast adventure.