Durdle Door — natural limestone arch
Durdle Door — natural limestone arch
Highlight • Natural Monument
Durdle Door — natural limestone arch
Hiking
5.0
(599)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
July 16, 2019
Hiking
January 29, 2015
Hiking
August 19, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Durdle Door — natural limestone arch
4.7
(72)
382
hikers
Embark on the Durdle Door, White Nothe & Hambury Tout loop, a moderate 7.6-mile (12.2 km) hike that takes you along England's dramatic Jurassic Coast. You will gain 1247 feet (380 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes, encountering undulating terrain with numerous ascents and descents. The route offers striking coastal views, including the famous natural limestone arch of Durdle Door, and panoramic vistas of the Dorset Coast from Hambury Tout.
This trail starts from Lulworth Cove Heritage Centre, providing a convenient base for your adventure. Be prepared for a mix of surfaces, as some sections are paved, but you will also navigate unpaved, gravel, and natural footpaths, including steep parts. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider hiking during the off-season or on a weekday, as the section leading to Durdle Door can become quite busy, especially in fine summer weather.
As you hike, you will journey through millions of years of geological history, with visible rock layers and formations revealing the ancient story of this coastline. The path to White Nothe provides excellent retrospective views back towards Durdle Door, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the natural arch from a different perspective. This route is a prime example of the unique geological heritage found along the Jurassic Coast.
4.7
(47)
276
hikers
7.91km
01:51
210m
210m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the iconic Jurassic Coast, where you'll discover the dramatic natural arch of Durdle Door and the perfectly formed horseshoe of Lulworth Cove. This route, spanning 4.9 miles (7.9 km), offers stunning coastal views with towering white limestone cliffs and golden shingle beaches. You will gain 702 feet (214 metres) in elevation, making for a rewarding journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete. The path provides a consistent display of the English Channel's turquoise waters.
When planning your visit, be aware that while the overall difficulty is easy, you will encounter some steep sections, especially the climb from Lulworth Cove towards Hambury Tout. It is advisable to wear sturdy hiking boots, as parts of the trail can become muddy, particularly after rainfall. Parking is conveniently located near Lulworth Cove, offering straightforward access to the start of your hike.
This trail is a highlight of England's Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, renowned for its significant geological formations. You will experience the unique natural beauty of this coastline, shaped over millions of years. The route showcases the striking contrast between ancient geology and vibrant marine landscapes, making it a memorable experience for anyone exploring this historic region.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
2.00km
00:38
80m
80m
Embark on an easy hike around Durdle Door and the Man o' War Cove, a short route covering 1.2 miles (2.0 km) with an elevation gain of 264 feet (80 metres). You can expect to complete this loop in about 37 minutes, offering a quick yet rewarding experience. The trail provides clear views of the iconic natural limestone arch of Durdle Door, standing proudly against the sea, and leads you down to the sheltered Man o' War Cove.
This popular coastal path can get busy, especially during peak times, so plan your visit accordingly. While the route is easy, you should wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably. Parking is available nearby, but it fills up quickly, so arriving early is a good idea to secure a spot and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
This loop is a small but significant part of the famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique geology and fossil discoveries. The dramatic cliffs and rock formations you see here tell a story millions of years old. It is a perfect introduction to the region's natural beauty, showcasing why this stretch of coastline is so celebrated.
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Wednesday 6 May
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6°C
11 %
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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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