Explore Things to Do in Lulworth
Explore Lulworth Cove: Iconic Coastline, Hidden History and Walks Worth the Climb
We’ve walked this coastline more times than we can count, with children racing ahead on the path, with friends visiting for the first time, and once as part of a Macmillan hike along the cliffs from Durdle Door to Tyneham. Lulworth Cove isn’t somewhere you simply “see.” It’s somewhere you experience.
If you’re looking for things to do in Lulworth Cove, the obvious answer is the landscape itself. The perfectly curved bay, the clear water, and the dramatic chalk cliffs make it one of the most distinctive stretches of the Jurassic Coast. Just around the headland lies Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch that genuinely takes your breath away.
Things To Do
But There’s More Here Than Just Scenery
Lulworth Castle is well worth visiting. Set within parkland and built in the 17th century as a hunting lodge, it’s now restored and open to explore — and it’s dog-friendly too. Our children always looked forward to the seasonal activity trails, particularly Easter hunts in the grounds and spooky Halloween events in the Castle.
In the village, you’ll find the Lulworth Visitor Centre, kayak tours launching directly from the cove, and even a coastal sauna not far from the beach. The Boat Shed Café is a favourite for sea views, while Finley’s Café and the fish and chip takeaway are a perfect stop after a long coastal walk. The Lulworth Cove Inn, the nearby Castle Inn, and The Weld Arms are good options for something more substantial.
Just inland, Tyneham Village, abandoned during the Second World War, is one of the most quietly powerful places to visit in Dorset. Walking from there down to Worbarrow Bay feels like stepping back in time.
A Village Frozen in Time: Visiting Tyneham
Just inland from Lulworth Cove lies one of Dorset’s least-known stories. Tyneham was evacuated during the Second World War and has not been reoccupied by its residents. Today, the village remains preserved — with empty cottages, a schoolhouse still displaying children’s work, and a church that feels paused rather than abandoned.
We’ve walked down to Worbarrow Bay from here many times, which is a perfect way to round off a visit.
If you’re planning to spend time in Lulworth, it’s well worth setting aside a few hours to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lulworth Cove is on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, around 30 minutes from Dorchester and roughly 40 minutes from Weymouth and Poole. It lies within the Lulworth Estate and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage coastline.
Yes, and not just for photography. The cove itself is remarkable, but the surrounding walks, Durdle Door, Lulworth Castle and Tyneham Village make it an area where you can easily spend a full day exploring.
Its near-perfect circular shape was formed by erosion over thousands of years, creating one of the UK’s most famous geological features. The contrast between the calm waters within the cove and the dramatic cliffs beyond makes it visually striking and geologically significant.
Lulworth Cove and the surrounding coastline have featured in several productions. Scenes from World War Z (starring Brad Pitt) were shot along this stretch of coast. Nearby Durdle Door also appeared in Nanny McPhee and in music videos, including Cliff Richard’s “Saviour’s Day” and Tears for Fears’ “Shout.”
Read more about famous filming locations in Dorset.
Absolutely. Built in the 1600s as a hunting lodge, the castle was restored after a major fire and now welcomes visitors. The grounds are spacious and dog-friendly, and they often host seasonal family events.
Yes. Guided kayak tours depart directly from the cove and offer a brilliant way to see the coastline from the water, including views of Stair Hole and Durdle Door.
The South West Coast Path runs directly through the area. Popular routes include Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door, and inland to Tyneham Village and Worbarrow Bay. Some sections are steep but the views are worth it.
Dogs are welcome year-round at Lulworth Cove and on the surrounding coastal paths.
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