How To Walk the Jurassic Coast: The Best Dorset Walks (Map & Instructions)

Exploring Dorset walks is one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in southern England. With its rugged cliffs, sweeping sea views, and charming coastal villages, Dorset is a dream for hikers and nature lovers alike.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about walking one of the most stunning sections of the Jurassic Coast — the world-famous stretch from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door — plus tips on where to go, what to bring, and when to visit.

Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll along the cliffs or a full-day hike through ancient landscapes, Dorset walks will leave you breathless.

DORSET WALKS OVERVIEW

Start / Finish: Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door (return)
Distance: 5.5 km / 3.4 miles (there and back)
Duration: 2 hours
Elevation gain: 220 meters
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best time to go: April to October

This short coastal route is one of the most scenic walks in Dorset. It’s part of the South West Coast Path, a 630-mile trail stretching from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset.

But don’t worry — you don’t have to walk the whole thing! The Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door section offers all the drama of the Jurassic Coast in one short, unforgettable walk.

ABOUT THE WALK

The Jurassic Coast is England’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its 185 million years of geological history. Along this stretch, you’ll walk through time — past layers of limestone, chalk, and clay cliffs shaped by millions of years of erosion.

The walk begins at Lulworth Cove, a perfectly formed circular bay created by the sea punching through layers of rock. From there, a well-marked trail climbs the chalk cliffs to Durdle Door, Dorset’s most famous natural arch.

LULWORTH COVE TO DURDLE DOOR WALK INSTRUCTIONS

Start at Lulworth Cove Car Park

The walk starts from Lulworth Cove Car Park, located in West Lulworth village. It’s open year-round and costs around £6 for 4 hours. Toilets, a café, and a visitor center are available here.

From the car park, follow signs to Durdle Door, heading up the paved path behind the visitor center. The trail quickly begins to climb.

The Ascent to Hambury Tout

After a few minutes, the path becomes steep and grassy as you ascend Hambury Tout Hill. Take your time — the views back toward Lulworth Cove are spectacular, especially in the early morning light.

As you reach the top, you’ll see the bright turquoise waters of Durdle Door shimmering below. It’s a breathtaking moment.

Arrive at Durdle Door

Continue following the coastal path downhill, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll reach a set of wooden steps leading down to Durdle Door Beach.

The limestone arch of Durdle Door rises majestically from the sea — one of the most photographed landmarks in England. Spend some time exploring the beach, or walk a little further west to Man O’ War Bay, another beautiful cove with calm, clear water.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during sunset, the arch glows golden as the light hits the cliffs.

Return to Lulworth Cove

When you’re ready, retrace your steps back up the hill and return to Lulworth Cove. The views on the return journey are just as beautiful, with the sea stretching endlessly toward the Isle of Portland.

DORSET WALKS MAP

Below is a map of the Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door walk with parking, viewpoints, and nearby cafés marked for convenience.

Brown: Lulworth Cove Car Park (trail start)
Red: Durdle Door viewpoint and beach access
Blue: Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre and cafés

If you prefer a paper map, I recommend OS Explorer OL15 – Purbeck & South Dorset. For digital navigation, use AllTrails or Maps.me with the Dorset Coast Path region downloaded offline.

Tip: Click the top-right corner of the map to open it in Google Maps and save it to your phone before you go.

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD

By Car

Lulworth Cove is about:

40 minutes from Dorchester
45 minutes from Bournemouth
2 hours 30 minutes from London

Parking: Lulworth Cove Car Park (postcode: BH20 5RQ). It can get very busy in summer, so arrive early (before 9 AM).

By Bus

The X54 Jurassic Coaster Bus runs between Weymouth and Poole, stopping at West Lulworth. From the bus stop, it’s a 5-minute walk to the trailhead.

PLACES TO STOP ON THE ROUTE

Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre Café

Start your walk with a coffee and homemade cake. It’s also a great place to grab local maps and check tide times.

Durdle Door Ice Cream Kiosk

Located at the top of the hill near the holiday park. Perfect for a post-hike treat overlooking the sea.

The Boat Shed Café

Back in Lulworth Cove, this café serves fish and chips and cream teas — the perfect end to your Dorset walk.

EXTENDED DORSET WALKS

If you want a longer adventure, extend your route west to White Nothe and Ringstead Bay (additional 10 km round trip). The path follows more dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches.

Alternatively, head east from Lulworth to Mupe Bay (only accessible when the Lulworth Ranges are open). It’s a hidden gem with turquoise water and almost no crowds.

BEST TIME FOR DORSET WALKS

The best time to explore Dorset walks is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the paths are dry.

In summer (June to August), the coast can be busy, but the sea breeze keeps things comfortable. For fewer crowds and perfect hiking weather, I recommend May or September.

Sunrise and sunset walks are particularly magical — the cliffs glow orange, and the sea sparkles with light.

WHAT TO BRING

Walking shoes or boots: The path can be steep and slippery after rain.
Water: There are limited refill points along the route.
Light jacket: Even in summer, coastal winds can be strong.
Sunscreen and hat: The exposed cliffs offer little shade.
Camera or drone: Durdle Door is one of the best photo spots in England.
Map or GPS app: OS Explorer OL15 or AllTrails (offline mode).

MY EXPERIENCE

I started my Dorset walk at 8:30 AM on a crisp July morning. The cliffs were glowing in soft sunlight, and the sea shimmered turquoise.

The climb up Hambury Tout was a little steep but rewarding — the view of Durdle Door appearing over the ridge is pure magic. I spent nearly an hour at the arch, watching swimmers and kayakers explore the cove.

By noon, I was back at Lulworth Cove enjoying fish and chips by the beach — tired, happy, and already planning my next Dorset coastal walk.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you only have time for one walk in Dorset, make it Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door. It’s short, dramatic, and packed with beauty — the very best of the Jurassic Coast.

Whether you’re a local explorer or visiting from afar, Dorset’s coastal walks promise unforgettable scenery, a sense of peace, and a touch of adventure.