Located along the stunning Jurassic Coast in Dorset, England, Durdle Door is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country. With its dramatic limestone arch rising out of the turquoise waters of the English Channel, this awe-inspiring rock formation is a must-see for nature lovers and anyone visiting the area.
Ambiance and Location: Durdle Door is a breathtaking spot, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the sea beyond. The walk down to the beach can be a bit challenging, with steep steps leading down from the cliffs, but the effort is well worth it. Once you reach the base, you’re greeted with an incredible view of the arch framed by the deep blue of the ocean and the rugged cliffs surrounding it. On a clear day, the water has an almost tropical hue, making it feel like a hidden paradise.
The beach itself is pebbly, but the serene atmosphere and stunning views more than make up for it. It’s a peaceful spot, though it can get busy during peak tourist season. If you visit early in the morning or later in the evening, you’ll have the chance to experience Durdle Door without the crowds, which is truly magical.
Activities and Experience: While the main attraction is, of course, the natural rock arch, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area. Many visitors take the opportunity to swim in the sea or relax on the beach, while others enjoy hiking along the South West Coast Path, which offers incredible views of the coastline.
If you’re up for it, exploring the arch from the beach and marveling at the sheer size and beauty of the rock formation is a must-do. For photographers, the spot is a dream, offering plenty of opportunities to capture the arch at different angles, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Facilities: The area around Durdle Door is relatively simple but functional. There is a car park, though it can fill up quickly during peak times, and the walk down to the beach is well-maintained. However, be prepared for some steep inclines if you’re not used to hiking. There are also public toilets available near the car park, though facilities on the beach itself are limited, so it’s best to come prepared.
Overall: Durdle Door is a stunning natural wonder that lives up to its reputation as one of the UK’s most photographed and beloved landmarks. While the hike down to the beach can be a bit strenuous, the view of the arch and the surrounding coastline is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a more peaceful experience, Durdle Door offers a sense of tranquility and beauty that’s...
Read moreThis place has been on my bucket list for years since watching a YouTube video about it. Distance was a huge factor for me but recently took the opportunity to visit as I was camping in Somerset just over an hour drive to Dorset and the Jurassic coastline.
Wow it lived up to everything I anticipated. On the approach I was sceptical if I was on the right track but eventually came to the car park. Pay and display was not the cheapest and being a hot day was absolutely packed. At the top there were public toilets and a picnic area with benches. There was also an ice cream van and another serving hot food but the queues were long. I decided to give them a miss and set off with just my water bottle. Disappointed to be met by a sign stating no drone flying so I left my drone in the car.
The walk down took just over 10 minutes to reach the stunning viewpoint and steps down to the beach. The track was fairly steep and rocky. The beach was absolutely packed full but after taking some pictures from the cliffs above I decided to climb down the steps onto the beach.
A very rocky pebble beach with hardly any sand. I sat there for a couple of hours snapping the odd picture but just relaxing watching everybody having a great day at the beach and taking in the stunning cliffs. The cove acting like a sun trap.
There were speed boat trips and to my surprise an ice cream boat arrived delivering ice creams right to the shore.
Half way up the steps there is another track leading down to the opposite side and another cove and beach. This beach looked like a sandy beach and was less busy. Looking stunning but I mainly wanted to see the famous archway so never bothered climbing down this side as well.
The walk back to the car was challenging up hill and many steps and rocks to overcome in the scorching heat but a really lovely day and worth every bit of energy. I would love to return one day out of season with hope there to be less visitors so I could focus on getting some better...
Read moreWHAT A GEM!! An absolutely stunning location, especially, (but not restricted to), the Summer months. This is a magical spot at any time of year. In Summer, the sea is the bluest I’ve ever witnessed, in Britain. It feels like it belongs in the Mediterranean, rather than England.
TOPOGRAPHY CAUTION Visitors to this beauty spot NEED to be prepared for natural, uneven, stony paths and treks. It’s easy for the unseasoned walker, to twist an ankle, stumble and fall. It’s a long way down from the roads above. On route, passing through a natural, uneven woodland clearing is delightful in itself, as the views are quite lovely.
THE BEACH Visiting the beach involves descending very many steps. Again, perhaps not for the faint hearted,, occasional walker, and certainly not for asthma sufferers, or other. There is no cable car,.
THE ASCENT When ready to leave the Durdle Door beach, or vantage points, you’ll naturally have a long. climb back up to the road,. I certainly would not recommend this place for asthmatics. I would wholeheartedly recommend visiting by car - one’s out, or a taxi, which will follow a tarmac road, directly to the cliff overlooking Durdle Door,
FOOTWEAR / CLOTHES Be sure to wear sturdy footwear; a warm coat and a scarf.when the wind picks up, dust is a little fierce. The wind can also be harsh on the skin, and particularly the hair taking takes a bit of a bashing.
RECOMMENDATIONS Come by own car//taxi from Wool station -sturdy footwear warm coat head scarf gloves (depending on the time of year) come by own car, or taxi asthmatics may not cope with the climbing and blowing dust
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Nearest railway station: Wool.. X50 bus from the station...
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