Durdle Door

About

Eroded by time and nature, Durdle Door is one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks.

It is located on the Lulworth Estate in south Dorset and is part of the Jurassic Coast. The coastline is of such international geological importance that it was designated England’s first natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001 and is now part of a family of natural wonders including America’s Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

The magnificent natural limestone arch was formed when the power of the waves eroded the rock and forged a hole through the middle. The name Durdle is derived from an old English word ‘thirl’, which means to pierce, bore or drill.

As you look towards the sea, you will see Durdle Door beach on your right. Access to the pebble and shingle beach is on foot via a path and steps over the hill from Lulworth Cove or down from the Car Park (charges apply) which is located on the cliff top at Durdle Door Holiday Park. There is a coach drop-off point at the car park, and coach parking is at Lulworth Cove (postcode for Sat Nav is BH20 5RQ).

We recommend visiting between September and May when the beach and roads will be quieter. If you do want to visit during peak times, we recommend that you use public transport, walk or cycle, or if you are driving, it is best to arrive early or late in the day to guarantee a parking space. 

At the base of the chalk cliffs a number of caves can be seen which have been carved out by the sea. Please do not enter them as cliff falls are common. 

The beach is recommended by the Marine Conservation Society for excellent water quality. Bathing is possible in places, however the beach shelves steeply in places, therefore please supervise your children at all times as there is no lifeguard.

Dogs are allowed on the beach all year, however please be sure to pick up after them.

There is a refreshment kiosk with picnic seating at the top of the cliff, which is open from early March to the end of October, 10am until 4pm. You can also enjoy the gift shop selling souvenirs, beach equipment and gifts. Toilets are located within the car park area.

The South West Coast Path national trail runs along the cliff top linking Studland in Dorset to Minehead in Somerset, which is 630 miles in total. There are various walking route suggestions for one day or longer on the Trail website: www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/

A number of music videos have been filmed at Durdle Door, including parts of Tears for Fears "Shout", Billy Ocean's "Loverboy", and Cliff Richard's "Saviour's Day".

The area around Durdle Door has also featured in several films, including Wilde, Nanny McPhee, the 1967 adaptation of Far From The Madding Crowd and the Bollywood film Housefull 3.