Visit East and West Lulworth home to Durdle Door

The scenery around the Lulworth area is stunning, boasting some of the most dramatic geological features along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, including Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.

You will easily spend a few days visiting the attractive and historic villages of East Lulworth and West Lulworth. Even though their beaches are not sandy, they are some of the most beautiful in the area and visitors are drawn here from all over the world to see the amazing landscapes and swim in the crystal clear waters.

Where to stay

There is a wonderful range of accommodation in Lulworth to suit all tastes and budgets, including holiday parks overlooking the sea, cosy B&B’s and luxury holiday cottages. If you decide to stay in Lulworth during peak season, then booking in advance is highly recommended for this small and charming resort.

West Lulworth is a a traditional Dorset fishing village and an ideal base to enjoy the Jurassic Coast. With thatched cottages dating back over 400 years and pretty, former coastguard houses, West Lulworth is steeped in history and used to be a smugglers haunt.

At East Lulworth, you'll find quaint stone cottages, a traditional country pub, a gorgeous gift and coffee shop and not forgetting the beautiful Lulworth Castle and Park.

Things to see and do in Lulworth

There is a great range of activities and attractions in and around Lulworth to keep the whole family entertained.

Lulworth Cove, with its perfectly rounded bay and picturesque scenery, is one of Dorset's most well-known and loved landmarks. Swim in the crystal clear water, take a boat trip or look for fossils along the shoreline. A short walk from the Cove along the South West Coast Path brings you to Stair Hole, Man O'War and finally Durdle Door - the 'door' being a magnificent stone arch set next to a beautiful curved beach.

If you're feeling active, why not have a go at kayaking, coasteering, mountain biking or a guided walk? Nearby you can also enjoy horse riding in the surrounding heaths and woodlands.

Lulworth Castle and Park, with its beautiful grounds and chapel is a must-see during your stay. The Castle was devastated by a fire in 1929 and has been restored in part to allow visitors the chance to enter the Castle.

Food and Drink

For such small villages, there is a wide variety of places to enjoy something to eat or drink.

Choose from traditional country pubs, tearooms, cafes and bistros.

For views of Lulworth Cove you can’t beat sitting out on the deck at The Boat Shed café. Or maybe you’d rather get some fish and chips from the village and sit on the beach – for afters, try one of the delicious ice-creams from the Doll’s House.

Events calendar

Lulworth Castle and Park hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year including Easter Fun for all the family, Classic Car Shows and Camp Bestival – the biggest event of the year!

Don’t miss out on Tank Fest, Tiger Day or one of the many events at the nearby Tank Museum. Some of the events get sold out, so you may want to book in advance to guarantee these amazing days out.

Meet the chimps, monkeys and apes who live at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre and feature in the popular TV show ‘Monkey Life’. Take part in Melon Madness, Orangutan Day or their Easter Extravaganza.

Plan your visit

A great way to visit Lulworth is by public transport or with a guided trip or tour.

A large car park at West Lulworth which services the Cove and Village is managed by the Lulworth Estate and the proceeds are used to help maintain the area for the enjoyment of everyone.

Villages close by…

The villages of Wool and Winfrith Newburgh offer further accommodation and country pubs.

Caravan and camping pitches in close proximity to Wareham and Lulworth Cove can be booked at Whitemead Caravan Park. It is within walking distance of public transport and great places to eat and drink like the Black Bear Inn, which serves homemade food and Dorset Ales.