What to see

The present church is at least the third, and maybe the fourth church on this site. The west tower dates from c.1320 and on its east wall (the interior back wall of the church) can be seen evidences of the churches of c.1290 and 1829. There is a complete list of Rectors from 1322. The old Churchyard is now closed except for the interment of cremation caskets.

The present nave and chancel were rebuilt in 1876 by Crickmay. They are of Purbeck Stone decorated with Portland Stone, Purbeck 'Marble' and Studland Sandstone. The nave roof rises some eight feet above the top of the tower. There are three bells, two of which are mediaeval, the largest being the original Langton tenor of c.1420, made by John Gosselin of Bristol. The church has a two-manual pneumatic organ by Binns unaltered except for and electric blower.

The Museum is run by the Langton Matravers Local History and Preservation Society and is staffed by volunteers. Why not drop in whilst you are in Purbeck and learn about the conditions endured by those who quarried the stone from underground workings, and discover why open-cast methods are now used? You will find the museum behind the Parish Church of St. George in St. George's Close in the centre of Langton Matravers village.

Purbeck Limestone has been used from Roman times to the present day for walls, roofs and floors of buildings, from humble homes to great cathedrals. Its history is displayed here in a former Coach House, which with the Village itself, is a living illustration of the uses of stone. The Museum provides a complete picture of the ways in which the local stone was quarried and used.

Putlake Adventure Farm, Indoor and outdoor play areas, Gift shop,Tearoom,Farm trail to walk, Pony rides, Walk through avery,Bouncy castle, Guided walks for schools and Facilities for the disabled. Langton Matravers, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3EU
Tel: 01929 422917

Coach House Museum, Langton Matravers. Old stone building containing information relating to the stone industry. Open April to october.
Tel. 01929 423168/422281

Where to eat

Kings Arms
Tel: 01929 422979

Ship Inn
Tel: 01929 427654