St. Catherine’s Chapel — Attraction in Abbotsbury

The chapel is almost like something out of a movie or video game. Coming back from Bridport there is a hill which gives the perfect view of the chapel, so we decided to have a look as it caught our eye being completely isolated on top of a hill.

It's quite a walk up, and apparently we took the steeper of the routes according to a local resident. But would still recommend proper walking attire if you are visiting.

We visited just after a storm so it was incredibly windy at the top of the hill where the chapel is located, and was a good respite to get inside.

There isn't a great deal to see inside as it's virtually a barren shell. But there are interesting signs giving the history of the place, and people have left notes and prayers in...

Distinctive little chapel on top of a small hill, overlooking stunning views of Chesil Beach and the picturesque village of Abbotsbury. Dating back to the 14th century, the chapel features a barrel vaulted ceiling and robust buttresses. It originally served as a retreat for monks from Abbotsbury Abbey. The few surviving abbey ruins in the village below are clearly visible from the chapel. English Heritage does a very good job of maintaining this local landmark, and it was open and free to visit when I saw it on a Sunday evening in April. An information board is provided to give a bit of history about the site. It's easily accessible from Abbotsbury. Alternatively, it's just within an hour's circular walk from Chesil Beach West...

This small intact chapel looked after by English Heritage and built by the monks from the abbey, can be seen as you drive into Abbotsbury. The short walk up the hill (there is a steep path or a steady slope path) to the top is well worth it. Its open to the public without cost, but with simple instructions to close the door after visiting. The views are simply breathtaking of the area and along the coast. The chapel itself is fantastic, as it was when it was first built apart from weathring. You can imagine the stained glass windows would have been impressive and well worth the pilgrimage. It still has its roof which makes for a great escape from any incumbent weather. Well...