This memorial stone seat commemorates all those who perished in two aircraft crashes that occurred in this area in 1938 and 1945.
The memorial was dedicated in 1987.

Rona 🐶 + Dad (John)

June 25, 2022

Hiking

Memorial bench.

Dorset's worst ever air crash disaster happened on June 15, 1945, when five crew, four who were members of the Canadian airforce, and 22 passengers lost their lives. …

MCW73

December 3, 2025

Hiking

On June 15, 1945. A RAF Liberator JT985 flying to India crashed into a ridge in the Purbeck Hills shortly after takeoff from RAF Holmsley South, killing all 27 occupants (24 passengers, 3 crew) on board. The cause was likely the pilot flying too low in poor visibility.

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Best routes to Orchard Hill Air Crash Memorial Bench

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2. View of Houns-tout Cliff – View from the summit of Swyre Head loop from Kingston

8.63km

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3. View from the summit of Swyre Head loop from Swyre Head

2.73km

00:46

50m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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Elevation 150 m

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Today

Friday 13 February

9°C

4°C

66 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 34.0 km/h

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Location: Church Knowle, Purbeck, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Orchard Hill Air Crash Memorial Bench

1. Kimmeridge Bay and Clavell Tower loop from Kingston — Dorset

2. View of Houns-tout Cliff – View from the summit of Swyre Head loop from Kingston

3. View from the summit of Swyre Head loop from Swyre Head

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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