St Catherine’s Chapel stands as a dramatic landmark on a windswept hilltop overlooking Abbotsbury and the Jurassic Coast. This remarkably well-preserved 14th-century chapel was built as a pilgrimage site and landmark for seafarers. The sturdy stone building has survived 600 years of coastal storms thanks to its massive buttresses and robust construction. The simple, barrel-vaulted interior creates a powerful sense of medieval spirituality. Climbing the steep hill rewards visitors with breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing Chesil Beach, the Fleet Lagoon, Abbotsbury village, and rolling countryside. The chapel’s isolated hilltop position, combined with coastal winds and soaring gulls, creates an exhilarating, timeless atmosphere. English Heritage manages the site, which is freely accessible via a steep footpath. The chapel is particularly atmospheric at dawn, dusk, or during stormy weather when its enduring strength seems most impressive.
Photo by susie peek from Geograph, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
St Catherine’s Chapel, Abbotsbury
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Gallery images from Geograph Britain and Ireland, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. Hover over images to see photographer credits.
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