Jutting out from the dramatic Jurassic coast, Durdle Door is a naturally formed limestone arch that has attracted plenty of attention over the past few decades. Its striking appearance explains why it has been used as a filming location for famous films and music videos, and why it’s at the top of the list for many who visit Dorset throughout the year. In case you need any, here are some more reasons to visit Durdle Door (plus a few things to take into consideration if you do).

The amazing sunsets

The sunsets at Durdle Door are truly spectacular. If you visit at the right time of year and position yourself correctly, you can get a snap of the sun peeking through the arch itself. Now if that isn’t Instagram-worthy, we don’t know what is!

The countless photo opportunities

It’s not only the sunsets that provide photo-worthy opportunities. From above, you can see the whole scene in its entirety, but from below you can admire the intricate details of the rock formations, like the chalk cliffs and caves at the base. This makes all angles from which you view it, very special indeed.

The cleanliness of the beach

One of many beautiful Dorset beaches, the pebble beach at Durdle Door is clean and inviting, so set down your beach towel and watch as the clear blue sea water gently laps the shore. To maintain cleanliness and protect wildlife, please take your rubbish with you at the end of your trip.

Its celebrity status

Several music videos have been filmed at Durdle Door, including parts of videos to songs by Billy Ocean, Cliff Richard and more. The landscape surrounding the arch has been used in scenes in several films Nanny McPhee and Far From the Maddening Crowd.

Its cheap parking

There’s a huge car park with plenty of spaces at Durdle Door and it’s very reasonably priced. Pay £5 for four hours or £10 for the whole day until dusk or 9 pm.

It’s open to the public all year round

The attraction is open throughout the year, providing opportunities to visit when there are fewer crowds. While it won’t be sunbathing weather in late Autumn/winter, you’ll have the privilege of enjoying the serene surroundings with just a handful of others.

It’s close to other interesting landmarks

Next to Durdle Door is the impressive Lulworth Cove, 25 minutes on foot or an eight-minute drive away. Once you’ve finished admiring the views of the limestone arch, head to see more strange geological formations: the Crumple and Stair Hole. You can also explore the 17th-century Lulworth Castle. Lulworth Cove has more facilities which make it a great place to head to for lunch after a morning at Durdle Door. Or head over to Durdle Door after lunch at Lulworth Cove and enjoy the sunset.

Things to bear in mind when visiting Durdle Door

• There are no toilets, food stands/shops or bins on the beach itself. These can be found at the car park before the descent to the shoreline
• The walk to the beach from the car park is steep and unstable at times – walking boots or trainers are a must
• The path to the beach may not be suitable for young children or visitors with mobility issues; it’s a 15-minute walk and then more than 100 steps to the actual beach itself.
• You can’t see Durdle Door from the car park
• Access to the beach is not permitted after 9 pm/dusk

Accommodation near Durdle Door

Durdle Door is just a 27-minute drive from Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa (formerly Waterside Holiday Park) and a 20-minute drive from Osmington Mills Lodge Park (formerly Osmington Holiday Park). Find out about our award-winning Dorset accommodation or secure yourself a last-minute getaway at our luxurious holiday parks with a low deposit now.