Durdle Door
A dramatic natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK's most iconic coastal landmarks...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Durdle Door
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK's most iconic coastal landmarks.
"An absolutely stunning piece of natural beauty, the walk down provides breathtaking views before you even reach the iconic arch."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path is steep & uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for the walk down and back up.
⏰ Go Early for Sunrise
Experience the magic with fewer people and capture stunning golden hour photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Arch
Durdle Door Beach
Witness the breathtaking natural limestone arch, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK's most photographed landmarks.
Turquoise Waters
Durdle Door Beach
Take a bracing dip in the surprisingly clear, turquoise waters, reminiscent of Mediterranean coastlines.
Jurassic Coast Views
Coastal Path
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the dramatic cliffs and coastline along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Trek
Beat the Crowds
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path is steep & uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for the walk down and back up.
⏰ Go Early for Sunrise
Experience the magic with fewer people and capture stunning golden hour photos.
🚗 Parking Costs
Parking is paid and can be expensive (£10-£20). Factor this into your budget.
🚫 No Facilities
There are no toilets or changing facilities directly at the beach. Plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path is steep & uneven. Sensible footwear is a must for the walk down and back up.
⏰ Go Early for Sunrise
Experience the magic with fewer people and capture stunning golden hour photos.
🚗 Parking Costs
Parking is paid and can be expensive (£10-£20). Factor this into your budget.
🚫 No Facilities
There are no toilets or changing facilities directly at the beach. Plan accordingly.
🚆 Train & Bus Combo
Take a train to Wool Station, then the Jurassic Breezer bus (31) to Lulworth Cove.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Durdle Door for its breathtaking natural beauty and iconic limestone arch, often describing it as a must-see landmark. The clear turquoise waters are a major draw for swimming, though they are bracingly cold. However, many reviews highlight the challenging, steep, and uneven path down to the beach, making it difficult for those with mobility issues or young children. Parking is also noted as being expensive.
"The best views and the clearest water not counting Cornwall of course. The must see place to be. Don’t take any trolleys and prepare for a long walk from the car park. No wheelchair access, don’t even try."
Gagik Gevorgyan
"An absolutely stunning piece of natural beauty. The walk down the cliff path provides breathtaking views before you even reach the iconic arch. The beach is lovely, and taking a dip in the clear (and bracingly cold!) turquoise water is an unforgettable experience.
Pro Tip: Get here at sunrise! We beat the crowds and had the place almost to ourselves. It was absolutely magical and serene. The experience would be completely different in the middle of a busy day. Highly, highly recommend an early start!"
Ammar Zia
"Spectacular Arch: The limestone arch is stunning, especially when framed by the sea. It’s one of the most photographed coastal spots in the UK.
Beaches: You can access two beaches – Durdle Door beach and Man O’ War Bay. The water is usually clear, though it can be very cold."
Ileana TS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a train from London Waterloo to Wool Station (approx. 2h 17m). From Wool, catch the Jurassic Breezer bus (route 31) to Lulworth Cove, followed by a walk.
Yes, you can reach Durdle Door via train to Wool Station and then the Jurassic Breezer bus (route 31) to Lulworth Cove. From Lulworth Cove, it's a walk to Durdle Door.
For a day trip from London, taking the train to Wool Station and then the bus is a popular option. Some tours also offer day trips from London.
Yes, you can drive to Durdle Door. There is a car park available, but it is paid and can be expensive.
Durdle Door is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Bournemouth, making it a popular addition to a Bournemouth trip. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Durdle Door itself is free to access. However, there is a charge for parking at the Durdle Door Holiday Park car park.
Parking at the Durdle Door Holiday Park car park is paid and can be around £10 for 4 hours or £20 for the day.
Durdle Door is a natural landmark and is accessible at all times. However, the car park has operating hours, typically from early morning to late evening.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as Durdle Door is a natural site. Booking train tickets in advance can save money.
While the site is open, be aware of the steep and uneven paths, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues. Swimming is at your own risk.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk from the car park involves a steep, uneven, chalky gravel path with wooden stairs. It takes about 15 minutes and is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. +1
The steep and uneven path can be challenging for young children and difficult with prams. Parents should be prepared for the trek.
Yes, swimming is possible at Durdle Door, and the water is often described as clear and turquoise. However, it can be bracingly cold and swimming is at your own risk.
No, there are no toilets or changing facilities directly at Durdle Door beach. You'll need to use facilities at the car park or Lulworth Cove.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Layers are advisable as coastal weather can change quickly.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise is highly recommended for stunning light and fewer crowds. Golden hour in the evening also offers beautiful lighting.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or at specific times due to local regulations or to respect other visitors. It's best to check local guidelines.
The path leading down to the beach offers excellent views. For a different perspective, consider viewpoints along the coastal path or from the sea.
Drone footage of Durdle Door is popular, showcasing its grandeur from above. Always be mindful of privacy and regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the arch and coastline. A tripod is useful for sunrise/sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1 Be prepared for varied terrain, including ascents and descents, and always check weather conditions before setting out. The natural beauty and geological significance of the area make it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the outdoors. 📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1 Experiment with different angles, from ground level on the beach to higher vantage points along the coastal path. Drone photography offers unique perspectives, but always adhere to local guidelines. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Durdle Door: Your Transport Options
Upon arrival at Wool, you'll need to catch the Jurassic Breezer bus (route 31) which will take you to Lulworth Cove. From Lulworth Cove, it's a scenic walk to Durdle Door. Booking train tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure better prices. For those who prefer driving, Durdle Door is approximately a 3-hour journey from Central London.
There is a dedicated car park at Durdle Door Holiday Park, but be aware that parking fees apply and can be substantial, especially for longer stays. The Durdle Door Experience: What to Expect on the Ground
Once you reach the beach, you'll find a stoney shore with a noticeable drop to the water.
Swimming is possible but undertaken at your own risk. Capturing Durdle Door: Photography Tips and Best Times
+1 This time of day offers soft, golden light that illuminates the arch beautifully and allows you to capture the scene with minimal crowds. The tranquility of an early morning visit provides a completely different, more serene experience compared to the busier midday hours. Beyond sunrise, the 'golden hour' just before sunset also provides excellent photographic opportunities.
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the arch and the surrounding cliffs. A tripod can be invaluable for capturing sharp images during low-light conditions or for long exposures. While drone footage offers spectacular aerial perspectives, always be mindful of local regulations and the impact on other visitors. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit