Encompassed by 20 square miles of undulating countryside, Lulworth Estate boasts 5 miles of World Heritage Jurassic Coastline, including the breath-taking beauty spots of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
Lulworth Cove
Unmistakable with its huge bowl-like appearance and blanket of turquoise waters, the stunning Lulworth Cove is one of the most recognisable sites in Europe. Created as a result of glacial melt at the end of the last Ice Age and relentless weathering from the sea, the cove comprises a hollowed-out basin with a narrow entrance through which the tide tos and fros. A natural harbour sheltered from the elements, it provides an idyllic haven in which to paddle, swim, kayak, snorkel and sunbathe. Quite simply unforgettable.
Durdle Door
Rippling like the arched back of a dragon, Durdle Door is one of the most famous rock arches not only in the UK but the world. Protectively shielding a shingle beach and lapped by translucent seas, it is one of the wonders of the Jurassic Coast and an incredible sight whatever the weather. 10,000 years old, it stands as photogenic as ever, making for the perfect subject for a photo or superb backdrop for a picnic. Viewed from the cliffs or the beach below, access is permitted year-round, though the beach is not open to the public past dusk.
Fossils and Geology
A unique playground for budding and professional geologists and palaeontologists, Lulworth encapsulates millions of years of history. Particularly fascinating, the remains of an 85-million-year-old fossil forest can be seen to the east of Lulworth Cove. Formed after worldwide sea levels dropped, this incredible forest was then flooded once again as the climate became wetter. Preserved by layers of calcareous sediment, you can still see the remains of stumps, trunks and roots, as well as the mesmeric rolling lines of the ancient sea floor.
Elsewhere, you will also find the ‘Stair Hole’ to the west of Lulworth Cove and ‘Lulworth Crumple’ on either side. Revealing captivating secrets as to how Lulworth Cove and its surrounding landscapes were formed and the effects of erosion, geology-lovers will be in their element. Standing on the viewpoint by the Stair Hole, caves, blowholes, arches sea-stacks and stumps can all be seen. As always, the best practice is to look but not touch if you find any cool fossils still buried in the rock!
Lulworth Castle
As well as Lulworth’s immense natural beauty, the estate also features a castle and park, and an outdoor adventure centre too. Encompassed by a 1,000-acre deer park, the 17th century Lulworth Castle positively exudes history, originally built as a hunting lodge to entertain the faces of high-society. Follow in the footsteps of kings and queens as you explore the castle’s corridors and rooms and climb the tower to be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of the Purbeck countryside and Jurassic Coast. Surrounding the castle, extensive parkland, woodland, grounds and play areas make for hours of entertainment, while you can later fill your tum at the Castle Tearoom with a wedge of homemade cake.
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The Lulworth Estate, East Lulworth, Wareham BH20 5QS | 01929 400 352
