Ancient cliffs, turquoise coves and the most photographed arch in England
About this day
This is one of our hand-crafted Dorset Days — a complete itinerary built around three locations that sit within a few miles of each other, so you spend your time exploring rather than driving. All stops, parking details, walking tips and food recommendations are included. Simply follow the guide and enjoy.
Begin at one of the most perfectly formed natural harbours in Britain. Lulworth Cove was carved by the sea over thousands of years, cutting through layers of Portland limestone and Purbeck stone to reveal a near-circular bay of crystal-clear water. The visitor centre explains the geology brilliantly — well worth 20 minutes before you head to the beach.
The water turns vivid turquoise on sunny days — bring your camera.
Useful to know
A 20-minute cliff walk west from Lulworth Cove brings you to Durdle Door — the iconic Portland limestone arch that has become the symbol of the Jurassic Coast. The walk along the South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views in both directions. Descend the steep steps to the beach below the arch for the classic photograph, or simply admire it from the clifftop.
The view from the clifftop looking east back towards Lulworth is equally stunning.
Useful to know
Drive 15 minutes east to Kimmeridge Bay — one of Dorset's best-kept secrets. This sheltered bay is part of the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and offers exceptional rock-pooling and snorkelling in the ledge pools. The dark shale ledges are packed with marine life, and on a calm day the water clarity is remarkable. The Fine Foundation Marine Centre has free displays on the bay's ecology.
The Clavell Tower — a 19th-century folly on the clifftop — is visible from the beach.
Useful to know
The best pubs and cafes within easy reach of today's stops — all from our Dorset Business Directory.
Right at the entrance to Lulworth Cove, this Hall & Woodhouse pub is the perfect spot for a post-walk pint or a proper sit-down lunch. Serves classic pub food with local Dorset produce, and the garden terrace has views towards the cove.
Unbeatable location — you can be at the cove and back in your seat in five minutes.
A proper thatched country pub with a warm welcome and a good selection of local ales. Slightly quieter than the pubs right at the cove, with a lovely garden.
The thatched roof and traditional interior make it feel genuinely Dorset.
Perched above Kimmeridge Bay, Clavell's serves light lunches, cream teas and homemade cakes with views over the bay. Perfect for an afternoon stop after rock-pooling.
The view from the terrace over the bay is hard to beat with a cream tea in hand.
The Featured Recommendation slot is available for local businesses. Get in touch to find out more.
Lulworth Cove car park, BH20 5RQ — pay and display, open year-round
Durdle Door Holiday Park car park (fee payable) for direct clifftop access
From Dorchester: A352 south to Wool, then follow signs to Lulworth Cove (approx. 20 mins). From Wareham: B3070 south to Lulworth (approx. 15 mins).
Lulworth Cove beach and visitor centre are accessible. The cliff walk to Durdle Door involves steep gradients and is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Arrive at Lulworth before 10am in July and August to secure parking. Weekday visits are significantly quieter than weekends.
Dogs: Dogs welcome at all three locations year-round. Lulworth and Kimmeridge beaches are dog-friendly.
Download this day as a PDF to take with you, or head back to browse more pre-built Dorset days.
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