| Synopsis: |
Spectacular collection of photographs, showing this beautiful coastal region at its most extraordinary and unspoilt best. Historic seaside towns, small quintessential villages and dramatic coastline, these capivating images will delight both tourists to the area and proud locals.Extending for over 80 miles from Lyme Regis in the west to Bournemouth in the east the beautiful Dorset coastline is unparalleled anywhere in Britain for its vast diversification, dotted with small quintessential villages and larger traditional seaside resorts, while inland are a myriad of ancient monuments, and historic relics. Foremost rural with a scattering of villages, Close to the Hampshire border in the east the larger conurbation of Bournemouth is in complete contrast to the tiny coastal settlements of Fleet, Burton Bradstock, Seatown and Eype. Offering an intimate view of the magnificent coast of Dorset, the book unfolds many delights en route. The journey begins at the famous Cobb, Lyme Regis, a town well documented for discoveries of Ichthyosaur and Plesiosaur skeletons by Mary Anning in the early part of the 19th century.Continuing east the highest point on the entire south coast is soon reached at Golden Cap, its trig point revealing a modest height of 626ft above sea level. Tiny fishing villages are a delight and after passing the spectacular shingle spit of Chesil Beach we enter the principle setting of the novels of Thomas Hardy, the author who was born near Dorchester. Beyond the Isle of Portland and Weymouth the coast path reverts to secluded isolation and takes in the geological wonders of Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. As we continue further east the book reveals the story behind the now deserted village of Tyneham, its residents giving up their homes at the end of the war, destined never to return. "The Isle of Purbeck" reveals many wonders, including oil exploration around Kimmeridge Bay and the restored Swanage Light Railway, rekindling the halcyon days of steam. A walk from Studland skirts Poole Harbour, one of several which lay claim to the title of the worlds largest, or second largest natural harbour, before crossing by ferry to Sandbanks, home to many famous celebrities. The final leg of the journey concludes in the bustling seaside resort of Bournemouth. |