A FAMOUS landmark of the Jurassic Coast is visited by thousands of holidaymakers every summer.

Durdle Door, the natural rock arch between Weymouth and Lulworth Cove, has always proved a hit with tourists because of its unusual shape.

More than 200,000 walkers use the footpath between Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door each year and it is one of the most photographed land features along the Jurassic Coast.

On a clear day you can see along the Jurassic Coast westwards from Durdle Door towards Portland and eastwards towards Man of War Bay and Lulworth Cove.

The unusual rock formation is a result of the softer rocks being eroded away behind hard limestone over thousands of years, allowing the sea to punch through them.

The name Durdle is derived from an Old English word ‘thirl’ meaning bore or drill. Eventually, the iconic arch will collapse to leave a sea stack.

The popular landmark has also featured in various films.

They include the 1967 adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel Far from the Madding Crowd and the 1997 film Wilde starring Stephen Fry.

Cliff Richard’s 1990 Christmas number one ‘Saviour’s Day’ also saw him singing both down on the beach and on the cliff top.

To get to Durdle Door from Weymouth, head toward Dorchester, then take the A352 signposted for Wool and Wareham.

Towards Wool, follow the brown tourist attraction signs for Durdle Door.

Access and car parking is through Durdle Door Holiday Park which leads to a pay and display car park at the top of the cliffs. A short walk and steep steps lead to the beach.

For more information, visit durdledoor.org.uk.