Lulworth Cove is one of the most popular places to visit in Dorset, offering a stunning natural setting year-round. Formed around 10,000 years ago by the sea, this horseshoe-shaped bay is perfect for coastal walks, exploring ancient geology, or simply relaxing amid breathtaking scenery.
Famous for its unique geology, Lulworth Cove features the Lulworth Crumple and Stair Hole, where twisted, sedimentary rock beds reveal the area’s geological history.
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Lulworth Cove Parking Options
When visiting Lulworth Cove, parking is easy and convenient, with several options available:
- Main Car Park (BH20 5RQ): This large car park is located just a short walk from the cove and offers ample space, even during peak times. Parking is chargeable, with both hourly and full-day rates available. The day rate is ideal for visitors planning to stay for a longer period.
- Free Parking: Limited free parking is available by Holy Trinity Church (Church Road, West Lulworth, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5RY). However, this area fills up quickly, especially in peak season, so it’s best to arrive early. This free parking requires a five-minute walk to the cove along the road.To reach the cove from this free parking, walk downhill towards the crossroads and turn right. Cross the road to access the pavement, which leads you to the roundabout. The main car park is on your right.
Things To Do At Lulworth Cove
Once leaving the car park, you will be greeted by a grassy area with the Heritage Centre in front of you. There are also public toilets here, which are a little nicer than the additional public toilets on the road towards the cove.
Heritage Centre
The Lulworth Cove Heritage Centre is a great place to visit to learn more about the history of Lulworth and the surrounding area of the Jurassic Coast.
Beach
Lulworth Cove beach is made up of large pebble and shingle. It can be quite difficult to navigate sometimes as your feet sink. It’s not a pushchair friendly beach, and not very suitable for non abled walkers. During low tide, the beach is a great place to find rock pools.
The stunning views across the cove make up for the terrain even on a cloudy day. When the sun is shining the water is a vibrant blue colour. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round.
Walks
If you walk around the cove to your left, you will be met with some steps climbing out of the cove. These are quite steep and uneven so take care, however when you reach the top you can discover the fossil forest.
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The land is on Army ranges and may be closed, so check before you visit, but you can discover a forest which grew over 150 million years ago but then became flooded destroying the trees. The stumps and roots are left today showing the history of what once was.
Related Post – Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door walk
The famous Durdle Door arch, one of the most photographed landmarks, is around a mile away. If you exit Lulworth Cove via the main car park following the coastal path, you can climb the hill which is quite steep but inclines gradually.
As you reach the peak of the hill, don’t forget to turn around and take in the breathtaking views of the cove below you.
The ground levels out a little as you approach the picnic area next to Durdle Door holiday park. There are also some public toilets here and a refreshment truck.
Access to Man O War Beach is via quite a steep decline, however the views are worth it and you can relax on the beach for a while with a picnic before making the journey back up the hills.
Facts About Lulworth Cove
Geological Formation: Lulworth Cove was formed when the sea broke through the Portland Stone, creating its iconic horseshoe-shaped bay.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Lulworth Cove is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Flora and Fauna: The area is home to the Lulworth Skipper butterfly and many other species.
Annual Visitors: Lulworth Cove attracts around 500,000 visitors each year.
Eating And Drinking Near Lulworth Cove
If you’re extending your visit with a meal or a drink, you’ll find plenty of options near the cove:
The Boat Shed Café: Located right on the cove, this café offers breakfast, lunch, cakes, and drinks, with outdoor seating and dog-friendly options.
The Coffee Bar: Inside the Heritage Centre, enjoy coffee, cakes, milkshakes, and soft drinks in a cosy setting.
The Dolls House: A quaint cottage offering traditional cream teas and a variety of sweets and fudge.
Lulworth Ice Cream Parlour: Treat yourself to a well-deserved ice cream after your walk.
The Lulworth Cove Inn: Positioned near the car park, this dog-friendly inn offers a large outdoor seating area for drinks and meals.
Related Post – Lulworth Cove Inn Review.
Finley’s Café: Perfect for takeaway fish and chips, Finley’s Café is a local favourite.
Places To Stay Near Lulworth Cove
If you’re thinking of a weekend break to Lulworth, or perhaps a longer stay, there are plenty of choices for accommodation.
Hotels near Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove Inn
Main Rd, Wareham BH20 5RQ
Free parking, wifi and free breakfast available when staying at the 4 star Lulworth Cove Inn. A very convenient location right in the heart of Lulworth.
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Lulworth Lodge
38 Main Rd, West Lulworth, Wareham BH20 5RQ
Why not stay in the town’s former watermill, Lulworth Lodge. The property is overlooking a pond, and includes free wifi and free breakfast.
Click Here for prices and more information
Campsites near Lulworth Cove
Durdle Door Holiday Park
Main Rd, West Lulworth, Wareham BH20 5PU
Located right at the top of the hill near Durdle Door, a mile away from Lulworth Cove. Onsite facilities include a bar, launderette and is child friendly.
Rosewall Campsite
Osmington Mills, Weymouth, DT3 6HA
A little further away you can find sea view camping for tents & RVs over 13 acres of land. Facilities include bathrooms, a laundry area and shop that’s open seasonally.
Lulworth Cove Holiday Cottages
Ivy Cottage
10 Main Road, West Lulworth, BH20 5RN
Just 750 yards from Lulworth Cove beach, this holiday home has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It’s also a dog friendly holiday cottage.