St Alban's Head facts for kids
St Alban's Head, also sometimes called St Aldhelm's Head, is a piece of land that sticks out into the sea. It's located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) southwest of Swanage, in Dorset, England. This headland is the most southern part of the Purbeck peninsula. It's made of a type of rock called Portland Stone. St Alban's Head is part of the famous Jurassic Coast, which is a World Heritage Site. This means it's a very special place recognized globally for its natural beauty and history. It's also a Special Area of Conservation, which helps protect its unique nature.
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Historic Chapel on the Headland
On St Alban's Head, you can find the historic St. Aldhelm's Chapel. This chapel was built in the Norman style, which was popular a very long time ago. It is dedicated to St Aldhelm, who was an important bishop. The chapel has stood on this headland for many centuries.
Radar and Coastguard History
There is a special monument on the headland. It remembers the important work done to develop radar during World War II. This work was carried out by the Telecommunications Research Establishment. They were based nearby at RAF Worth Matravers. Radar was a new technology that helped detect planes and ships during the war.
You can also find a coastguard station here. It used to be run by HM Coastguard. Now, the National Coastwatch Institution takes care of it. They help keep an eye on the sea and help people who might be in trouble. There are also some old cottages that used to house the coastguard workers.
Royal Marines Memorial
On the western side of St Alban's Head, there is a memorial for the Royal Marines. This memorial is placed within a small garden. From this garden, you can look out over a beautiful bay called Chapman's Pool. It's a peaceful spot to remember those who served.
Stone Quarrying
St Alban's Head has been a place where people dig for stone. This process is called quarrying. There is an old quarry right under the coastguard station. It is no longer used. However, a quarry called St Aldhelms Quarry is still active. It is located a little bit inland from the headland.
See also
In Spanish: Cabo de St. Alban para niños
