Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove is one of Dorset’s most instantly recognisable natural landmarks. A near-perfect horseshoe bay carved over thousands of years as the sea pushed through layers of Portland Stone. The result is a beautifully rounded, almost symmetrical cove that feels both dramatic and surprisingly gentle. As part of the Jurassic Coast, it’s world-renowned for its geology, scenery and sense of scale.
The cove is sheltered and scenic. At low tide, rock pools appear along the edges, Just to the west lies Stair Hole, where the rocks have folded and twisted under immense pressure. It’s a favourite spot for photographers and geology enthusiasts.
More recently, the addition of the Saltwater Sauna has added a new dimension to visiting the cove, offering a perfect contrast to a dip in the sea on cooler days.
For anyone planning to spend a few days exploring this part of the Jurassic Coast, Lulworth Cove is a wonderful place to have close by. Our Lulworth holiday cottages collection includes a beautifully furnished cottage in nearby Winfrith Newburgh, just a short drive from the cove, Durdle Door and the surrounding countryside.
Why We Love It Here
This stretch of coast is somewhere we could happily spend days and still feel there’s more to discover. Lulworth Cove is ideal for paddling and swimming in the sheltered waters, watching boats drift in and out of the bay, and wandering the paths above the village for classic Jurassic Coast views. We love combining beach time here with long lunches, pub stops and coastal walks. One of our favourite places to pause is the Boat Shed Café, which sits right on the cove. It’s perfect on a summer’s day with outdoor seating, or inside at a sea-view table when the weather turns, and you can watch a storm roll into the bay.
We’ll often walk along the beach towards the wooden steps made famous in Brad Pitt’s film, World War Z, then head up onto the cliffs and loop back to the village.
Lulworth Cove is just one of the places that makes this stretch of Dorset so special. From the beaches of Purbeck to the traditional villages and quieter corners of the Jurassic Coast, there’s plenty more to discover if you’re staying a little longer. Browse our handpicked Dorset holiday cottages and find somewhere to stay while you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. There is a large pay-and-display car park in Lulworth village, just a short, level walk from the beach.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Lulworth Cove throughout the year, although you should follow the local signs regarding where they can go on the beach. It’s a lovely place to visit with your dog, particularly if you combine a walk around the cove with some of the surrounding coastal paths. Just remember that the paths above the village can be steep, with exposed cliff edges.
If you’re bringing your dog on holiday, our collection of dog-friendly holiday cottages in Dorset includes some lovely places to stay, with coastal walks and countryside to explore nearby.
Yes, Lulworth Cove is a popular choice for families, thanks to its sheltered setting, relatively easy access and nearby cafés and facilities. Children can enjoy exploring the shoreline and rock pools when conditions allow, while the cove is also popular for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. However, there are no lifeguards, and the water can still become deep, with changing sea conditions, so children should always be closely supervised.
It’s one of the places we’d happily recommend to families spending a few days in Dorset. If you’re planning a longer break, explore our family-friendly holiday cottages in Dorset, with plenty of great days out along the coast and beyond.
Lulworth Cove is well equipped for a full day by the sea. The village has public toilets, cafés, shops, pubs and seasonal food outlets, all within easy walking distance of the beach.
There’s plenty to discover without travelling far from Lulworth Cove. The South West Coast Path climbs west towards Durdle Door and Man O’ War Cove, with some of the most memorable coastal views in Dorset. Just above the cove, Stair Hole is worth the short detour for its remarkable folded rock formations.
For something different, you can explore the coastline by kayak, discover the surrounding countryside on foot or visit nearby Lulworth Castle and its grounds. We’ve brought together more of our favourite walks, outdoor experiences and local recommendations in our guide to things to do in Lulworth.
If you’re looking for somewhere with plenty to enjoy between trips to the coast, Silverlake Estate is an excellent option. Around 20–30 minutes from Lulworth Cove by car, depending on traffic, the estate offers beautiful lakeside holiday homes, an outdoor heated swimming pool, spa, tennis courts, kayaking, paddleboarding and woodland walks. It’s particularly appealing for families and couples who want to explore the Jurassic Coast but also have plenty to enjoy where they’re staying.