Rufus Castle, Portland, Dorset, England

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Rufus Castle

Rufus Castle
Rufus Castle is illuminated at night

Summary
A striking Norman Castle built on a rocky promintory overlooking Church Ope Cove on the Isle of Portland.

Rufus castle
Rufus Castle was probably built for William II (called "Rufus" for his red hair). It is likely that the structure we see today was the keep of a larger castle. Little remains of that first castle, with the possible exception of the arch that spans the path from Church Ope Road.

In 1142, Robert, Earl of Gloucester, captured the castle from King Stephen on behalf of Empress Maud, and a license to rebuild was granted in 1258. The castle was rebuilt in the 15th century, and much of what remains dates from this time.

The castle is constructed in the form of a pentagon, and the 7-foot-thick walls are pierced by numerous loop-holes meant to allow archers to fire upon attackers. This gives rise to the castle's alternative name; "Bow and Arrow" Castle.

The best views of Rufus Castle are from the shore of Church Ope Cove or the small ledge that houses the remains of 12th century St Andrew's Church, halfway down the cliffs. Access by a steep stair from the castle viewing platform.

Getting There
Walking access via Church Ope Road, off Wakeham Street, Portland. There is parking in a free lot just south of Church Ope Road.

 

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Abbotsbury Swannery - Badbury Rings - Cerne Abbas Giant - Chesil Bank - Corfe Castle - Isle of Portland - Lyme Regis - Maiden Castle - Milton Abbas - Poole - Portland Castle - Rufus Castle - Shaftesbury - Sherborne - Weymouth

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Thomas Hardy's Dorset

Accommodation
Hotels in Dorset - Self Catering Cottages in Dorset

  


Accommodation
Dorset

Norchard Barn

Morcombelake
Self catering cottage

This property is surrounded by 20 acres of National Trust land and is situated 1/2 a mile from the world heritage coastal path and comprises … more >>
Sleeps 7

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Dorset

Annexe

Broadoak
Self catering cottage

This property consists of 1 double room and 1 shower room. No pets accepted. sofa bed included in this property sleeping an extra … more >>
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Bournemouth (Hotel)

The Roundhouse Hotel

The Roundhouse Hotel is ideally situated, adjacent to the town's shops, clubs and restaurants, but only 5 minutes from East Cliff Beach. The hotel has its own private car park which is free to guests. All 192 bedrooms are well appointed rooms whilst Waves Restaurant, Bar and Terrace are open … more >>

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Bournemouth (Hotel)

Inver House Hotel

The Inver House Hotel is an elegant town house, desirably situated upon the West Cliff of Bournemouth, just one minute walk away from the beach and five minutes to the town centre. All of the 28 en-suite bedrooms are fully equipped with television, DVD player and tea and coffee making … more >>

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