Highlight • Monument
Ballard Down Obelisk
Hiking
4.9
(91)
Cycling
4.6
(22)
Gravel riding
5.0
(2)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
Katherine Moore
September 14, 2021
Cycling
The Obelisk on Ballard Down was erected here by a local businessman in 1892 to celebrate the provision of a new supply of drinking water in Swanage nearly ten years previously.
Fascinatingly, it was taken down during WW2 as it was feared that the landmark might aid enemy aircraft navigate, before being reinstated some years later.
Fascinatingly, it was taken down during WW2 as it was feared that the landmark might aid enemy aircraft navigate, before being reinstated some years later.
Morgan
March 27, 2019
Cycling
Great views. Down hill from here to Old Harry Rocks
Kit P
October 12, 2021
Hiking
An impressive obelisk towering above Swanage, this monument was erected in 1892 to commemorate the town's new water supply. During the Second World War, it was briefly taken down so it couldn't be used as a navigational aid for the enemy. It stands on Ballard Down and makes for an ideal objective on a hike from the coastal town.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Ballard Down Obelisk
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
Weather
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Monday 28 September
22°C
14°C
17 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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Location: Swanage, Purbeck, Dorset, South West England, England, United Kingdom