Durdle Door and Man o' War Bay

Description:

Durdle Door and Man o ' War Bay are two shingle beaches separated by the famous "door". They are about 1km to the west of Lulworth Cove. Durdle Door is one of the most photographed and famous parts of the Dorset coastline due to its strange rock formation. There is a pay-and-display car park at the top of the cliff through the caravan park.

There is a campsite 800 yards up the cliffs with shops and a Heritage Centre and pub in West Lulworth. Although the beaches are popular with families, it is worth noting that it takes a long walk to reach them and there is a steep descent down to a shingle beach which could be a little tricky with pushchairs and small children. Care should be taken when swimming as there is a steep underwater slope.

The toilets are about a kilometre away in West Lulworth  along the cliffs.

The nearest train station is Wool  and the bus operates between Wool/Wareham station, Lulworth Castle, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. This is now a bookable service so people need to book in advance.  Tel: 0845 6024547.

Dogs are allowed on the beach.

Warning - People are advised not to shelter under the cliffs as there are occasional rockfalls.

Places to visit on a rainy day are:-

Bovington Tank Museum  has a massive collection of almost 300 vehicles, covering the complete evolution of the tank. Tanks in action, displays and armoured vehicle rides. Open daily, 10am to 5pm.  Tel: 01929 405096.

Athelhampton House, an outstanding historic house, set in architectural gardens with history from Henry V11 to Victoria. Open daily (not Friday or Saturday) 10am to 5pm and 10.30am to 5pm Mondays (Mar-Oct).  Tel: 01305 848363.