Ross Worm Reef

Reefs made from millions of tiny tube worms lie in the waters off Swanage. The Ross Worm colonies build a hard tube with a tiny feathering feeding head at the end to catch their tiny planktonic food. The worms are known scientifically as Sabellaria spinulosa, and although the reefs stand no higher than 30cm (12”), they can cover large areas of seabed, stabilizing the shifting sub-sea sand dunes and provide a home for a host of other marine creatures. But the worms are under threat; their tubes are fragile and can easily be broken by anchors, dredgers and trawlers. With vital monitoring work being carried out by a team of scientists and Seasearch volunteers, it is hoped the reefs can gain official status and be protected.

Little London by the Sea

Swanage and Durlston Country Park are full of relics from London. These were loaded onto barges as ballast for the return journey back to Swanage. Items brought back ranged from bollards (many of which have “London” stamped clearly on them), a clock tower and even the decorative front of buildings. So many items and were brought back that Swanage became known as “Little London by the Sea.”