Durdle Door is arguably Dorset's most iconic landmark with it being an extremely popular spot among tourists.

The limestone arch that reaches out to sea was formed through natural erosion processes thousands of years ago.

Here's all you need to know about Durdle Door if you are planning a trip down, including safety tips and where to park.

All you need to know on Durdle Door

Dorset Echo: Durdle Door is often listed among the UK's best beachesDurdle Door is often listed among the UK's best beaches (Image: Tom Lawrence/Newsquest)

Where is Durdle Door?

Durdle Door is about halfway between Weymouth and Swanage on the Lulworth Estate and is about a one-mile walk from Lulworth Cove.

If you are travelling by car you should input the BH20 5PU postcode into your satnav for the Durdle Door Holiday Park.

From there it is a relatively short walk to the arch and the beach, which Dorset Travel Guide describes as a "steep path of packed earth and gravel".

It continues: "It can be a challenging walk for some, but there are some fantastic views of the arch on your way down."

Where to park at Durdle Door

As mentioned above the car park at Durdle Door Holiday Park will be the one to use, which stays open until from 8am to 9pm.

The Lulworth Estate website states that for cars it costs £12 for all-day parking (up until 9pm) and £6 for up to four hours.

Motorcycles cost £2 and large vehicles (above 5.5m and up to 16 seats) cost £20.

Dorset Echo: Durdle Door is a location well-received by those who visit itDurdle Door is a location well-received by those who visit it (Image: Tom Ward/Dorset Camera Club)

It is important to note that the car park has toilets and other facilities but there are none on the beach itself.

Durdle Door safety tips

Visit Dorset has some advice for people going to visit Durdle Door, especially with regards to walking to and from the landmark.

It says: "Walking boots or trainers [are] needed for [the] walk to and on beaches. Bathing can be dangerous. The beaches shelve steeply and there is a strong under-tow.


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"Take care on the shoreline because sudden large waves can engulf persons at the water's edge - this has caused fatalities. Do not sit near to the cliffs – danger of rockfalls."

Additionally, there are no lifeguards on the beach so extra care should be taken if you decide to enter the water there.

Is Durdle Door dog-friendly?

Those who may want to bring their dog along with them to Durdle Door are in luck as they are allowed on the beach.