Durdle Door

Durdle Door
Durdle Door
Durdle Door
Durdle Door
Durdle Door


Swim through the large natural arch in the cliffs, which juts out dramatically into the sea and dates back about 140 million years.

Durdle Door is a natural arch carved into the limestone cliffs on the Jurassic Coast of England. The geological feature is the unquestionable highlight of the Lulworth Estate, which is open to the public and consists of 12,000 acres (4,856 hectares) of picturesque terrain. Go for a romantic stroll along the stony beach and take photographs of this stunning geological feature.

The arch was formed by sea erosion on the cliff, which gradually wore away the weaker layers, leaving only the arch standing. Today, you’ll be able to spot other remnants of old arches in the form of rock stacks and stumps. As the crashing waves continue to pound Durdle Door, this is its inevitable future. The site’s name derives from the Old English word “thirl,” which means drill. The famous arch has featured in music videos and movies, such as Wilde and Nanny McPhee.

Note the fossil ripple marks in the slabs of rock at the lower section of the arch. At the top, there are visible rings that mark life from millions of years ago. Capture photos of these intriguing inscriptions of time.

When the weather is sunny, the pebbly beach is a nice place to spend the day. Work on your tan or go for a swim in the sea with your family. The beach is quite steep, so weak swimmers and families with children should take extra care.

Stroll along the green hills behind the beach for excellent views of the sea and the English countryside. Enjoy the serene ambiance and the fresh sea breeze as you traverse the large meadows. In the summer, there is a shop selling rock and fossil souvenirs as well as refreshments.

Durdle Door is 14 miles (22.5 kilometres) east of Weymouth on the south coast of England. You can access the site through the villages of Lulworth and Winfrith. Walk to the cliff tops and make your way down the steep hills to the beach. There is a parking lot nearby.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Durdle Door Hotel

Durdle Door Hotel

3 out of 5
West Lulworth House, Main Road Wareham England
Durdle Door Hotel
Lulworth Cove Inn

Lulworth Cove Inn

4 out of 5
Main Road, West Lulworth Wareham England
Lulworth Cove Inn
Castle Inn

Castle Inn

3 out of 5
Main Road Wareham England
Castle Inn
Bishops Cottage

Bishops Cottage

3.5 out of 5
Main Rd Wareham England
Bishops Cottage
5 bedroom accommodation in West Lulworth, near Swanage

5 bedroom accommodation in West Lulworth, near Swanage

West Lulworth, near Swanage
5 bedroom accommodation in West Lulworth, near Swanage
A charming yet contemporary thatched cottage close to Lulworth Cove.

A charming yet contemporary thatched cottage close to Lulworth Cove.

West Lulworth
A charming yet contemporary thatched cottage close to Lulworth Cove.
Amy Cottage

Amy Cottage

3 out of 5
25-26 Main Road West Lulworth Wareham England
Amy Cottage
Little Ivy

Little Ivy

3.5 out of 5
Wareham England
Little Ivy
3 Bed Holiday home close to idyllic Lulworth Cove

3 Bed Holiday home close to idyllic Lulworth Cove

West Lulworth England
3 Bed Holiday home close to idyllic Lulworth Cove
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Durdle Door

When visiting Durdle Door, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including sailing and exploring the stunning coastline. Consider joining a Durdle Door bus tour or a Discover Dorset tour for a comprehensive experience. Day trips and door tours are popular options, providing an opportunity to learn more about this picturesque area. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Dorset's natural landscapes.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Castle Point Shopping Centre, located 33.8km away, offers a vibrant mix of entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a bustling city atmosphere, perfect for picking up gifts and souvenirs during your stay in Durdle Door.

Recreation

Greenhill Beach, located 12.9km from Durdle Door, offers a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation by the sea. For a bit of fun, visit Pirate Adventure Mini Golf, 11.3km away, where family-friendly sports and adventure await. Enjoy a cultural evening at Weymouth Pavilion, also 12.9km distant, featuring engaging performances.

Adventure

At Warmwell Holiday Park Ski Slope, located 8.0km from Durdle Door, experience thrilling skiing amidst beautiful scenery. For those seeking adventure, the Tyneham Village and Flower's Barrow Walk, also 8.0km away, offers breathtaking views on an invigorating hike, while the South West Coast Path Section 51 Trailhead, only 1.6km away, showcases stunning coastal landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the serene nightlife at Durdle Door with a stroll along the beach under the stars. For a lively evening, visit the nearby Lulworth Cove where pubs like The Castle Inn offer a warm atmosphere and local ales, perfect after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Durdle Door

During your visit to Durdle Door, explore stunning beaches, scenic bays, and historic castles that offer a delightful blend of culture and outdoor experiences. Don't miss the breathtaking Durdle Door Beach and the picturesque Lulworth Cove, perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration. These attractions are ideal for travellers seeking to soak in the natural beauty and heritage of this enchanting area.

  • Lulworth Cove: A picturesque bay located 1.6km from Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove boasts stunning coastal scenery and a charming beach. It's perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Durdle Door Beach: Just 322m from Durdle Door, this iconic beach features golden sands and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. The famous natural limestone arch provides a breathtaking backdrop.
  • Weymouth Harbour: Situated 12.9km from Durdle Door, Weymouth Harbour offers a vibrant atmosphere with bustling shops and eateries. Enjoy scenic views of the marina and indulge in fresh seafood while soaking up the coastal charm.

Best time to go to Durdle Door

The best time to visit Durdle Door is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May53.6°F (12.0°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
November49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Durdle Door

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Durdle Door.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and October) for more affordable package holidays to Durdle Door.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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