People flocked to the beach on Saturday. Hambury House – Adorable thatched cottage in West Lulworth, sleeping up to 8 people. It's backed by high cliffs of chalk with nodules of marcasite. The most famous spot on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is an impressive natural limestone archway standing in the sea. The beach is known for its beautiful views and the attractive places nearby which allow the tourists to spend a day perfectly at the beach. The nearest car park and shops are at the Durdle Door holiday park or a longer walk from Lulworth Cove. Type You could even have a swim right by the arch then. Springfield Country Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa. Durdle Door Beach is dog friendly and allows dogs all year. . There are wonderful views along the journey, and it’s an easyish walk for all ages and abilities. To get to Durdle Door you will need to drive down to the car park and then it is a short walk. Extraordinary scenes branded “absolute carnage” showed thousands of beachgoers crammed in two pens on Durdle Door, near Lulworth, Dorset, as two air ambulances landed on Saturday afternoon. It has its own restaurant and is a great place to stay if you’re planning a romantic break in the area. Durdle Door Beach – places nearby to visit Lulworth Cove is situated close to the limestone arch of Durdle Door and it is the best example of this kind of landform. You can find a bit more info on it here. This is a popular day trip from all over the south of England. You can reach the area by car, public transport, or as part of a longer walking route. There are a few exceptions for photographers wanting to visit early in the morning for a special sunrise experience. I had a great road trip in the region in the autumn, and would recommend a quick read of this post for some great tips. Alternatively you can take the coastal walk which is roughly a mile shorter in distance but you get to take in the sights along one of Dorset’s most iconic stretches of coastline. The iconic limestone arch of Durdle Door lies at the eastern end of the beach of that name, and is easily Dorset's most spectacular beach. "To witness the disregard with which Durdle Door, our beaches and coast paths have been treated is shocking." It drops you at the entrance to the park. Take a look at my privacy policy for more information. The route is around 2.5 miles and takes approximately 2 hours. So interesting to learn the name would have been derived from the same term! Dorset Police Chief Inspector Claire Phillips said: "We have had to close the beach at Durdle Door to allow air ambulances to land. In terms of weather, the warmest time to visit Durdle Door is in the summer months. Curving away from the arch the the sand and shingle beach at Durdle Door is backed by the high limestone cliffs of the Jurassic Coast. The Lulworth Estate owns five miles of Dorset coastline that includes Durdle Door beach, which saw people travel from as far away as Birmingham and Leicester. There’s often a bracing wind coming off the sea too, so wrap up warm if you’re planning a winter trip. Durdle Door camping – Other than the holiday park, there are a few options for camping / caravanning close to the site including Swanny’s Campsite, Little Birch Caravan Site, Galton Campsite and Rosewall Camping. You can check the X54 bus times here. We arrived just after 8am and only saw a few other people there, but by 9.30am around 30 school kids arrived by coach. on the B3070 which leaves the A352 (Wareham to Dorchester road) at Holmbridge. So long as you have a car, it’s nice and easy to get around. Durdle Door beach is packed with tourists again despite police declaring the area "closed" after people were seriously injured jumping from the arch less than 24 hours ago. If you’re bringing a tent, you can use the Rookery site at the holiday park, or if you have a vehicle, then you can choose between a seaview or gravel pitch. Obviously if you’re arriving via the cliff paths then there are no restrictions, but if you want to park then you’ll have trouble outside of the car park hours. When I visited the car park prices were as follows: We visited both Lulworth Cove beach and Man of War beach, just below Durdle Door. The coastline is of such international geological importance that it was designated Englands first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001 and is now part of a family of natural wonders including Americas Grand Canyon and Australias Great Barrier Reef. How to Get There I think the best time to visit Durdle Door is in June or September. If you’d like to stay near the site, there are a few options. Wander the cliff tops, take in epic panoramic views, and spot hidden bays all while following the epic Jurassic Coast. The shore is mostly flint shingle, becoming sandier towards the western end. A visit to Durdle Door is a must-see for any trip to Dorset and can easily be combined with a trip to the nearby Lulworth Cove (2 mile drive or 1 mile walking from Lulworth Cove … Lulworth Castle – 17th-century mock castle now housing a museum, with lovely gardens open all year round. As a result, we are evacuating the beach … Privacy Policy Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Here are a few of my top picks (all sleeping 6 or more) that are within a short drive of Durdle Door. Save it for later using one of these pins…. This cute pub in the charming village of West Lulworth is moments from the beach, has great views, and is moments from cafes, restaurants and ice cream shops! It’s unusual to see something carved by nature rather than the human hand! Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. Just remember, this is England – if you’re prepared for the weather (umbrella, warm coat, suncream or whatever you need!) Enjoyed this post? Before my trip, I hadn’t heard about this other beach, but wow was it stunning, with it’s beautiful bay and rugged rocks, eroded over the years. The Jurassic Coast was designated as England’s first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001 and is one of England’s most famous natural wonders. Free. Gates are locked at 10pm in peak season, 7pm in spring / autumn and 4pm in winter. Rich in prehistoric life, many important fossils have been found here. You’ll also have less trouble sorting accommodation, not to mention the prices will be lower out of peak season. It was created when the sea pierced through the Portland limestone around 10,000 years ago. The rocks at Kimmeridge were once the floor of a deep tropical sea. There are a range of options available including static caravans, camping pods, cabins and more. Durdle Door is one of the Jurassic Coast’s most iconic landscapes. Durdle Door Holiday Park – Open March to October, this is the closest option to the landmark itself. I hope you’ve found this guide to visiting Durdle Door helpful! Start here or see where I am in the world over on Instagram. When the sun is shining, it’s a wonderful place to visit! Aquamarine water with safe seas for gentle swimming and paddling. There are many beaches in Dorset, southern England, with most of them making up the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which stretches from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset, a distance of about 96 miles (154 km).. If you’re wondering what facilities there are here, there are public toilets located in the holiday park car park, plus a small café (although that may not be open all year round). it doesn’t need to get in the way of having a good time! From there you can hop in a taxi or catch the X54 bus towards Weymouth. 0-2 hours – £4 Durdle Door and Man o’War Bay are two shingle beaches separated by the famous “door”. I’d also add that with the crowds flocking to see Durdle Door, there’s more chance of having this beach to yourself! Portland Bill – Classic red and white striped lighthouse on the Isle of Portland. Not sure where you fancy going? It gets pretty cold in winter, with average temperatures in December January of 5 Celsius. Home to the iconic rock arch, it is a great place for relaxing on the beach. Have an amazing trip. The arch has been formed over thousands of years, as the waves eroded the Portland limestone, creating a hole in the centre. A mix of sand and shingle, this is one of the hidden treasures at Lulworth. One of the top walking routes is from Lulworth Cove (another stunning bay in Dorset), over the cliffs to Durdle Door. Beach-goers had to be crammed together to make room for air ambulances to land at Durdle Door in Dorset after three people injured themselves jumping off … From here it’s easy to walk the coastal path over to see Durdle Door. The route is around 2.5 miles and takes approximately 2 hours. Temperatures are warm, but it’s out of the school holidays, so crowds are reduced. If you’re thinking of visiting Durdle Door for the first time, this guide is packed full of information to make the most of your trip. The beautiful white pebble beach of Lulworth Cove, with its blue waters and easy access make it a popular destination for lovers of the beach. Located on Dorset’s World Heritage Jurassic Coast this is just one of several geological curiosities within a stone’s throw of each other. Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch that is located on the Jurassic coast near Dorset in England. A little further away, in the historic market town of Wareham, this is a great option if you want a little more from your hotel. Why not check other beaches nearby as we have no beaches around West Lulworth, 56 beaches in Dorset, or check our list of Dorset Dog Friendly Beaches. You can check out the timings for your visit here. The path to Durdle Door Beach, Dorset. It’s worth noting, there aren’t many of these buses per day (2 or 3 max) so you’ll need to plan your trip carefully. The impressive geological formation draws thousands of visitors each year. Durdle Door is probably the most famous stone arch anywhere in the world. Lulworth Seafield – 3-bed holiday home overlooking West Lulworth. Another great walking route in the area is from Lulworth Cove (although you could start the loop at Durdle Door) along this route on the South West Coast Path. If you’re visiting as a big group or would like the option to self-cater some of your trip, I’d also recommend taking a look at Airbnb. Corfe Castle – Charming village with the ruins of an ancient castle perched on top of the hill. Disclaimer and Dorset beach hut locations include: Swanage, Lyme Regis, Avon Beach, Mudeford, ... Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. If you’re visiting Durdle Door for the first time, I’d recommend arriving early (car park opens at 8am) and taking a walk down to the archway. If you want to pop it in your satnav then the postcode for Durdle Door public car park is BH20 5PU. Looking west over the beach, isolated stacks out at sea show where an older coastline once lay. This address will take you to Durdle Door Holiday Park, which has a huge pay and display car park. However, there’s more to it. The easiest way to get to reach the site is by car. Durdle Door is located to the west of Lulworth Cove along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, South England. West Bay – Beautiful beach famous for its huge sandstone cliffs, with 140ft sheer drops to the ground below. It is on a lot of people’s must see lists for the area. You can visit the site all year round, but it’s worth being aware that the car park at Durdle Door doesn’t open until 8am each day, and that you can’t park overnight.   Durdle Door is also the starting point for canyoning and other outdoor activities run by Lulworth Outdoors, and a place to begin several great walks through this pretty region of Dorset. Durdle Door beach. Another great option in the cute village of West Lulworth, this country house hotel is a short walk to the shops, pubs and beach. For example, I noticed you’re not allowed to fly drones at Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove or across anywhere classed as Lulworth Estate. Chief Inspector Claire Phillips, of Dorset Police, said: “We have had to close the beach at Durdle Door to allow air ambulances to land. Most people start at Durdle Door Holiday Park, from which it’s a 10-15-minute walk to reach Durdle Door. Amy Cottage – Cosy thatched cottage set back from the village of West Lulworth, sleeping up to 6 people. It’s a great location for a beach holiday, and offers easy access to get to the coast paths too. I’d recommend reversing it and starting at Durdle Door in the morning (to hopefully miss any crowds) and then getting to Lulworth Cove for lunch, before walking back again. The beach is approached by a steep 800 metre long footpath from the cliff top car park (at Durdle Door holiday park). There are plenty more great things to see and do in this region of Dorset. One of the top walking routes is from Lulworth Cove (another stunning bay in Dorset), over the cliffs to Durdle Door. Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door: Durdle door beach - See 4,003 traveler reviews, 4,384 candid photos, and great deals for West Lulworth, UK, at Tripadvisor. Home to the iconic rock arch, it is a great place for relaxing on the beach. Read more about visiting in my detailed guide. An isolated shingle beach in a wonderful setting, near to the evacuated Tyneham village. 6+ – £9.50. Hundreds of people have ignored police warnings and flocked to the beach at Durdle Door in Dorset a day after three people were seriously injured jumping off cliffs into the sea. This beautiful coast is the best choice for a fantastic day out on a seaside. Durdle Door is a 7.5 mile drive from Tyneham village. As a result, we … Credit: PA Dorset Police tweeted: “Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove remain closed today along with approach roads to the area. Usually the properties are owned by locals so you can enjoy an authentic experience and ask for lots of expert tips for the area. As you walk down towards the cliffs, you can choose whether to take the right-hand path to see Durdle Door and its spectacular beach, or the left-hand route to Man’O’War Beach. Just a five-minute walk from Lulworth Cove, this chic boutique hotel has 12 rooms and its very own bistro. I’m here to help! What more could you need? What a dreamy place to wake up. It’s located on Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast (a World Heritage Site in its own right) where you’ll find some of the most epic scenery in the country. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Here is a list of most of them, from west to east: This spectacular natural wonder is a real highlight of the Jurassic Coast, and the surrounding area has lots to offer too – there are some wonderful walks, charming villages and of course unrivalled scenery to take in. Low tide reveals wonderful caves and rock pools teeming with sea creatures. I love travelling the world and sharing stories and memories from my trips, as well as helpful travel advice so that you can follow in my footsteps This picturesque shingle beach is a steep fifteen minute walk down from the cliff top car park. Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: "The images circulated from Durdle Door shows that too many people made the decision to go the beach … When you see Durdle Door for the first time, you’ll be amazed by the perfect arch. Looking for directions to Durdle Door? Between July and September, the average temperature is 17 Celsius, but can reach highs of 26 Celsius… although if there’s a heatwave across the south of England, temperatures could be even higher! The name Durdle comes from an old English word ‘thirl’, which means to pierce, bore or drill, which in turn derives from thyrel, meaning hole. First catch the train from London Waterloo towards Weymouth, getting off at Wool Station (takes just under two and a half hours). Lyme Regis Beaches. This smart hotel is set in large gardens, with tennis courts, a gym, an indoor and outdoor pool and a spa. The main reason to visit is, of course, to see the impressive archway in the water on Durdle Door Beach. Durdle Door This picturesque shingle beach is a steep fifteen minute walk down from the cliff top car park. Old Harry Rocks – Breathtaking views on the walk from Studland Bay to see the chalk standing stones. 4-6 – £8.00 After seeing so many photos on Instagram over the years, I was really excited to see the sight for myself! Oh and if you’re wondering about some Durdle Door camping, then that’s also an option! The beach forms a part of the Lulworth Estate in the south of Dorset. They’re a little pricier, and further from the famous landmark, but there are some great options available. Find out more about visiting Dorset and what I got up to on my recent trip here. There are lots of lovely holiday homes, flats and rooms available for people planning a break in the area. Durdle Door is a natural arch on Dorset's Jurassic Coast On Saturday, one of the casualties had to be pulled from the sea bed, the coastguard said. It is a natural arch, formed from a layer of hard limestone standing almost vertically out of the sea. Durdle Door Visit Durdle Door and discover Dorset's most famous landmark. There are wonderful views along the journey, and it’s an easyish walk for all ages and abilities. Fossils, ammonites and belemnites are regularly found along … The area is overseen by the Lulworth Estate, so if you want to check anything, I’d advise looking on their website. Durdle Door is a limestone arch which has formed naturally around 10,000 years ago. 2-4 – £5 Or a slightly longer walk if it is busy and they introduce a one way system. Durdle Door Beach Durdle Door is the name of the limestone rock arch at the eastern end of this sand and shingle cove. Milton Abbas – A picture postcard village of white cottages with thatched roofs and perfect green lawns. It is now one of the most well known and photographed landmarks in the UK. 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