A Day Trip to Dorset: Things to do and see near Durdle Door, England
- MemoirsofaMountainGirl
- May 15, 2020
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 12, 2020
Ever heard of the Jurassic Coast? I hadn't either until a few years ago when I made a pledge to explore more local wonders across the UK and Ireland. I tend to gravitate towards the coast at any given opportunity. Having been marooned in London for the best part of the last decade and missing the easy access to the seaside and coastal beauty, the Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO world heritage site which stretches for 95 miles from Devon to Dorset) has been on my radar for a long time. I finally managed to make the trip before the Corona virus lockdown and so grateful now that we had the opportunity! The beauty is you can make a round trip in a day from London (although is a 3 hour drive each way from South West London) you might be safer staying the night so you can fully embrace the area in all its natural beauty.
Things to do and see near Durdle Door
West Lulworth
West Lulworth is a busy little village in summer months due to its close proximity to the South West Coast Path and the staircase to Durdle Door and beyond. The Coast Path to Durdle Door ascends Hambury Tout from the western end of main car park in West Lulworth. The path has some of the most stunning views of the English Channel as you descend onto Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
Durdle Door
What a beautiful little treasure this is - a limestone arch poking out into the sea with the turquoise blue waters passing underneath. I can see why there is such a national sense of pride surrounding Durdle Door and the Jurassic coast as it really is spectacular and for some of us - it is right on our doorstep.
Lulworth Cove
I want to say Lulworth Cove is a natural harbor (but I cant be too sure) in any event, it is sheltered from the elements so this beautiful stretch of coastline makes it an alluring destination for swimmers and sun worshipers to spend a summer's afternoon gazing into the blue waters. You can also access Lulworth Cove via the South West Coast Path.
Fossil Forest
The Fossil Forest is the remains of an ancient submerged forest from Jurassic times, located to the east of Lulworth Cove. I have heard a lot about the fossil forest, albeit it has restricted access for most of the year (due to falling cliff parts I was lead to believe) so I did not have the opportunity to marvel at this natural wonder all for myself but I will try again this summer (lock down permitting).
Man O’ War Beach
Is a pebbled beach to the East of Durdle Door, very popular with tourists. The blue waters make it seem appealing but the closer you get, whilst it might be nice for a quick dip or paddle, it didn't seem as calm and sheltered as Lulworth Cove.
Lulworth Castle
Lulworth Castle is located in East Lulworth on the Lulworth Estate - some 12,000 acres of the Dorset Countryside which include 5 miles of the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. The most interesting fact - it is still privately owned and managed by the Weld family. There is an abundance of History and Heritage attached to the castle and its grounds you could really spend an afternoon here. There is also the option of having some refreshments in the quaint castle tearoom - some tea and scones anyone?
Places to eat and Drink near Durdle Door
The Boat Shed Cafe
The Boat Shed Cafe, also located on the extensive Lulworth Estate, right on the waters' edge it is a perfect stop for a light bite of breakfast or lunch or catch of the day.
Lulworth Cove Inn
Located in West Lulworth Village near the Heritage Centre, the Lulworth Cove Inn is an institution in the area having been around for almost 400 years. The Inn is family owned and run and you can expect British Classics to be served on the menu such as battered fish and chips and locally brewed beer.
Sea Beats
A casual seafood restaurant on the esplanade in neighbouring Weymouth, this is a perfect stop off for a casual bite fresh from the sea and a local's favourite.
The Blue Pool & Tea House
Whist not exactly in Durdle Door, the stunning Blue Pools but in neighbouring Furzebrook are well worth the 25 minute drive from Durdle Door. This is such a calm, relaxed setting you can go for a nice walk around and have some tea and scones in the little tearooms. There is also a small museum on site which tells the story of the local clay mining industry, of great importance to the economy of Dorset,
Where to stay near Durdle Door
A stunning Boutique B&B on situated right on Lulworth Cove with an outdoor swimming pool over looking the sea.
Lulworth Luxury Holiday Cottages (or Holiday park)
Situated on the Lulworth Estate you can take your pick of thatched cottage retreats with hidden sun terraces, traditional farm buildings with swimming pools or period properties in rolling park-land.
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