Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset, England. It is owned by the Welds, a family who own 12,000 acres in Dorset in the name of the Lulworth Estate. It is open to the public.
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Durdle Door, located in Dorset, United Kingdom, is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a stunning natural landmark. This iconic limestone arch, which has been naturally sculpted over time by the forces of nature, is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dramatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque hiking trails make it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
To get to Durdle Door, the nearest train station is Wool, which is about 4.5 miles away. From here, you can take a taxi or bus to West Lulworth, where you'll find the entrance to the Durdle Door car park. Alternatively, you can drive directly to the car park, which is well signposted. The walk from the car park down to the beach is a bit steep, so be prepared for a little bit of a hike.
As for booking in advance, there's no need to book anything specifically for Durdle Door itself, as it's a public beach and open to all. However, it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season (May to September). Also, if you wish to partake in any guided tours, boat trips, or adventure activities in the area, it's best to book those ahead of time.
Visiting Durdle Door is free, but there is a charge for parking at the nearby car park. The cost varies depending on the season, but expect to pay around £5-£9 per day. Apart from this, any additional costs will depend on the activities or tours you choose to do in the area.
The best things to do at Durdle Door include swimming in the clear waters, sunbathing on the beach, and exploring the coastal trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The South West Coast Path, which passes through Durdle Door, is perfect for hiking enthusiasts. For a unique experience, consider taking a guided kayaking tour around the arch and along the Jurassic Coast.
For dining options, consider The Boat Shed Café, which serves delicious seafood and offers amazing views of Lulworth Cove. Another option is the Lulworth Cove Inn, which offers traditional pub fare and local ales in a cozy atmosphere. The Castle Inn, located in nearby West Lulworth, is also highly recommended for its seasonal dishes and local produce.
When it comes to accommodation, Durdle Door Holiday Park is a popular choice, offering a range of options, including camping, caravans, and luxury lodges. Other options include Lulworth Cove Inn, offering comfortable rooms and stunning sea views, or the charming Castle Inn for a more traditional experience.
Off the beaten path:
For a more unusual travel experience, consider visiting the ghost village of Tyneham, located just a short drive from Durdle Door. Abandoned during World War II, the village is now an eerie time capsule, with its buildings and school left untouched since the 1940s. The village is only accessible on weekends and public holidays, so plan your visit accordingly for a truly unique and haunting experience.
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⛰️ Cliff spots ️🏜️ Natural arch spots 🌊 Ocean spots 🏖️ Shore spots 🏖️ Beach spots 🏖️ Headland spots 🏖️ Coast spotsNestled in the coastal region of the Dorset coastline in the south of the UK, discover the Durdle Door.
The Durdle Door is a naturally formed arch made from sedimentary rock in a place known as the Jurassic Coast on the coastline.
This part of the Dorset coastline is called the Jurassic Coast because of its amazing geology. The cliffs, rock piles and beaches in this area date back to the Triassic period, the time of the dinosaurs (to put it simply!). If you look at the Jurissic Coast from the sea, you can see the different layers of stone dating back 185 million years!
The other reason for the name is that the Jurassic Coast is famous for its fossils. The cliffs along the coast are full of fossils, especially in the Dorset Coast area around Lyme Regis. Fossil hunting on Lyme Regis beach is one of the must-do's on the Jurassic Coast!
The scenery on the Jurassic Coast is absolutely stunning, with the famous Durdle Door Arch making the area even more popular.
The arch has its feet in the pounding Channel Sea where the spectacle of its waves makes a visit to the arch even more impressive.
Around it, you can also see beautiful green landscapes and sandy beaches.
If you are looking for a quiet and picturesque destination, don't hesitate and visit Durdle Door.
You can get to Durdle Door by car.
Alternatively, you can book an excursion from Bournemouth station.
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