Storms Expose 17th-Century Ship Timbers at Studland, Likely From Swash Channel Wreck

Overview

• About six metres by two metres of timber were uncovered on Studland Beach on 28 January after recent winter storms, including Storm Chandra.
• Bournemouth University archaeologists provisionally date the material to the 1600s and link it to the Swash Channel wreck, likely the Dutch merchant ship The Fame from 1631.
• The exposed section shows at least 15 frames fixed with wooden treenails to five outer hull planks, with eroded frames but well‑preserved outer planking.
• Historic England notes the Swash Channel site is designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973 and that securely dated pre‑1700 remains are exceptionally rare.
• If excavation is authorised, the timbers are expected to join finds already at Poole Museum, and visitors are being asked not to touch or disturb the remains.