Built by W.M. Hardy in 1886-87 entirely of local stone. The 'castle' was never a real castle: it was purpose-built by Burt as a restaurant for the visitors to his estate.
The castle played a part in the evolution of radio and telecommunications. A team of Marconi's engineers used the roof of the castle in the 1890s for some of their early wireless experiments to transmit to the Isle of Wight.
The castle passed through the hands of many owners until in 1973 it was bought by Dorset County Council. It was designated as a listed building at Grade II in 1983.

Paul

August 14, 2025

Nice cafe. Usually art installations downstairs. Walks along coast and not far to Swanage.
durlston.co.uk

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Elevation 50 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 18 January

11°C

7°C

53 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Location: Swanage, Purbeck, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom

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