Durdle Door – Dorset’s Most Iconic Attraction
Durdle Door
Durdle Door is a 7.5-mile drive from Tyneham village. Alternatively, you can take the coastal walk – roughly a mile shorter – and enjoy one of Dorset’s most spectacular stretches of coastline. Walking from Tyneham will take about 3 hours if you don’t stop along the way.
What is Durdle Door?
Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast – one of the most photographed and recognisable landmarks in the UK. Carved over thousands of years by the sea, the arch is made of hard Portland limestone (the same stone used for St Paul’s Cathedral), while the softer rocks around it have eroded away.
Below the arch lies Durdle Door Beach (also called Durdle Door Cove) – a beautiful pebble beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply admiring the view. The dramatic setting makes it a favourite with photographers and day-trippers alike.
Durdle Door Directions to Get Here
Durdle Door is in West Lulworth. Follow the A352 then the B3070 – it’s very well signposted. The postcode BH20 5PU will get you straight to the car park in your sat nav.
Or walk from Tyneham via Worbarrow Bay and Lulworth Cove (map below).
Facilities and Parking at Durdle Door
There’s plenty of parking at the top of the cliff, but it can be expensive (similar to Lulworth Cove). The car park gives great views of the arch even if you don’t fancy the walk down.
There’s no parking on the beach itself. Swimming is allowed but there are no lifeguards – take care with tides and currents.
The path from the car park to the beach is about half a mile: steep downhill followed by roughly 150 steps. It’s a good workout coming back up, so wear sensible shoes and bring water.
You’ll find toilets and usually a refreshment kiosk at the car park. On the beach itself there are no facilities.
It gets very busy in summer – on the busiest days police sometimes close access to the whole area (including Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door). Arriving early or visiting outside peak season is recommended.
Durdle Door Accommodation
Accommodation near Durdle Door ranges from hotels to campsites. Popular nearby places to stay include:
- Lulworth Cove – closest, with guesthouses, B&Bs and cottages.
- West Lulworth – charming village with inns and holiday cottages.
- Wareham – larger town with more hotels and amenities.
- Swanage – seaside town with a wide choice of accommodation.
- Camping/Caravan Sites – several nearby, including Durdle Door Holiday Park.
- Holiday Rentals – Airbnb and similar often have properties in the area.
Book early for summer and holidays – places fill up fast.
FAQ
How was Durdle Door formed?
Durdle Door was formed over millions of years through erosion. The arch is hard limestone; softer surrounding rock was worn away by the sea.
Is there an entrance fee?
No entrance fee for the beach or arch, but parking charges apply.
Can I swim at Durdle Door Beach?
Yes, swimming is allowed but there are no lifeguards – be cautious with tides and currents.
Nearby attractions?
Lulworth Cove, Portland Bill, Chesil Beach, Tyneham village and Worbarrow Bay are all close by.
Dogs allowed?
Yes, on leads. Summer restrictions may apply in some areas.
Facilities?
Toilets and a cafe at the car park; no facilities on the beach.
Best time to visit?
Year-round, but spring/autumn for fewer crowds and good weather.
Accessibility?
Steep path and steps to the beach – challenging for mobility issues, but good views from car park.
Guided tours?
Local companies offer Jurassic Coast tours – ask in nearby towns.
Name origin?
From Old English “thirl” (hole) and West Country “door” (arch/gate).
Safety tips?
Stay back from cliff edges (unstable) and watch tide times.
Picnics?
Yes – picnic areas near car park. Take rubbish home.
Camping?
Not on the beach, but nearby sites like Durdle Door Holiday Park.
Best photo spots?
Cliffs above and coastal path – sunrise/sunset for best light.
Drone restrictions?
Likely restricted – check local rules and get permits if needed.
Geology?
Layers of limestone and shale with millions of years of fossils exposed.
Winter visits?
Yes – quieter and still beautiful, though colder.
Please Treat Durdle Door With Respect
It’s heartbreaking to see how much rubbish can be left behind on busy summer days. Volunteers spend hours cleaning up after careless visitors.
Please don’t add to the problem – take your litter home or use the bins provided.
