Name: Rufus Castle
Rating: 2

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Rufus Castle

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Places to see

United Kingdom

England

South West England

Dorset

Weymouth And Portland

Portland

Rufus Castle

Recommended by 11 hikers

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Location: Portland, Weymouth And Portland, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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Best Hikes to Rufus Castle

4.7

(97)

640

hikers

1. West Cliff, Jurassic Coast – Church Ope Cove loop from Southwell

15.4km

04:16

280m

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

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Intermediate

4.4

(7)

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2. Portland Bill Lighthouse – Church Ope Cove loop from Southwell

10.1km

02:45

150m

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

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Intermediate

4.3

(3)

hikers

3. West Cliff, Jurassic Coast – Tout Quarry Sculpture Park loop from Portland

12.8km

03:41

310m

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

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Intermediate

Tips

Mike Cree

August 5, 2024

Rufus Castle was reportedly built for William II, although the structure seen standing in ruins today is not of that date. In 1142, Robert, Earl of Gloucester, had captured the castle from King Stephen on behalf of Empress Maud. It had additional fortifications added in 1238 by Richard de Clare who owned it at that time. Around 1256, Aylmer de Lusignan obtained a licence to crenellate the 'insulam de Portand' and Robert, Earl of Gloucester, was granted a similar licence just 14 months later. It is generally presumed that Rufus castle is the site of any work that may have resulted from these licences and any remains that may date from the period exist only at foundation level, or have been lost to cliff erosion.

There is no public access to the Castle as it is privately owned by Gerry Hinde who was born and raised in Portland.

s〰️en

June 29, 2025

A visit to Rufus Castle in Portland is definitely worth it. It's a beautiful historic ruin with great views. The castle offers insight into the area's history and is perfect for walks and photos. Its clifftop location provides an impressive backdrop and great views of the sea. It's a lovely place to enjoy nature and learn more about Portland's history.

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Details

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Elevation 40 m

Weather

Today

Monday 15 September

17°C

15°C

10 %

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Max wind speed: 53.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Portland, Weymouth And Portland, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

Rufus Castle

1. West Cliff, Jurassic Coast – Church Ope Cove loop from Southwell

2. Portland Bill Lighthouse – Church Ope Cove loop from Southwell

3. West Cliff, Jurassic Coast – Tout Quarry Sculpture Park loop from Portland

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