Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is roughly a 2-hour walk from Tyneham village if you follow the Dorset Coastal Path. It’s a truly stunning route if you have the time – and one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the county.
Lulworth Cove is one of Dorset’s real gems. This perfect horseshoe-shaped bay began taking shape over 10,000 years ago as the last Ice Age ended. Melting glaciers fed powerful rivers that carved the initial valley, and then the sea broke through the softer rocks to flood it, creating the sheltered cove we see today.
In 2001, UNESCO recognised the area’s outstanding geology by granting it World Heritage Site status as part of the Jurassic Coast.
Directions to Lulworth Cove & Parking
If you’d rather drive than walk from Tyneham, getting to Lulworth Cove by car is straightforward and well signposted. Just be aware of two things:
On hot summer weekends it can get extremely busy. A few times each year the police put up road blocks and operate a one-in-one-out policy when the car park is full. If you see warning signs a few miles out, it might be worth heading somewhere else for the day.
Lulworth Cove only gets closed off by the police a couple of times per year, usually on the hottest days. Most of the time you’ll be fine – but plan to arrive early on busy weekends.
Lulworth Cove Parking
The main car park is large but parking charges are high (similar to many popular Dorset spots). Resist the temptation to park elsewhere in the village – traffic wardens are very active.
Near the car park entrance you’ll find the visitor centre, a café, and public toilets.
Into the Cove
From the car park it’s a short, easy stroll down to the water, passing plenty of cafés, restaurants, and places to stay. There are lots of spots to grab an ice cream or sit with a drink.
Standing on the jetty, look left for an ice cream shop and stone steps leading up to the coastal path towards Worbarrow Bay and Tyneham. To the right, past the Boat Shed Café, another path climbs over the hill to Durdle Door (about 20–30 minutes walk).
Stair Hole
Stair Hole is a smaller cove just west of Lulworth Cove, famous for its dramatic folded limestone (the “Lulworth Crumple”). The sea has carved caves here too – once used by smugglers, just like at Lulworth and Worbarrow.
The path back towards the car park continues uphill, offering fantastic views of Stair Hole with Portland on the horizon. From there you can carry on to Durdle Door if you haven’t already.
Your visit to Lulworth Cove really isn’t complete without seeing Durdle Door too – and the walk between them is one of the best short coastal hikes in England.
