Where is lulworth cove situated

Like the nearby Durdle Door and Stair Hole , Lulworth Cove was formed because bands of rock of alternating resistance to erosion sit in layers parallel to the shore.

The outer edge, next to the sea, is the hardest and consists of fairly resistant Portland limestone. When the sea eventually managed to break through a tiny fault in this layer of limestone it proceeded to scoop a near-perfect circle out of the soft clays and sands behind, a process of erosion that was halted at the back of the cove by a thicker band of more resistant chalk, also known as the Purbeck Hills.

The cove, which featured in a television programme called ' Seven Natural Wonders ', is a working fishing cove with a beach suitable for swimming, snorkelling and diving. About half a mile north of the cove itself is the village of West Lulworth. With a population of around eight hundred, the village is a popular Jurassic Coast access point and can get very busy in high season. Dominated by Bindon Hill to the east, a m ridge with extensive remains of Iron Age earthworks, and Hambury Tout to the west, with a barrow on its circular top, the village is a picturesque affair and home to one of the oldest pubs in Dorset.

The Castle Inn dates from the 16th century and retains original woodwork and a traditional thatched roof. Just a short walk east from West Lulworth is the famous 'fossil forest' where the remains of growths that formed around tree stumps around million years ago can still be clearly seen, along with the ripple marks of an ancient beach. In order to reach the forest it is necessary to pass through an army firing range that sits next to Lulworth Cove.

It is worth checking firing times before planning a trip! A short walk from Lulworth Cove is Durdle Door , a striking natural arch also formed due to the erosion of bands of rock of alternating resistance that sit in layers parallel to the shore.

In this case the rock strata are narrow and nearly vertical, so that nearly all the outer edge of Portland limestone has already been worn away, rather than just a small gap such as that at Lulworth Cove. The short stretch that remains now appears as the flat end of a small headland, protecting the final outpost of clay behind it and giving, from above, a distinctive 't' shape.

The cove was formed by the sea breaking through a layer of Portland Stone parallel to the shoreline. Powerful waves then continued to break the softer clays, in a semi-circle pattern, creating the cove which is seen today.

Due to its incredible landforms and five types of rock, Lulworth is considered to be one of the best places in the UK to study geology! Enjoy stunning views of the Jurassic Coast as you kayak from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door or explore the underwater world of Lulworth Cove with a spot of snorkelling. West Lulworth village, is just half a mile north of the cove and is well worth a visit.

Known as the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, West Lulworth is a traditional Dorset fishing village and popular tourist destination. Other nearby attractions include Lulworth Castle, the abandoned village of Tyneham and the iconic Durdle Door.

Durdle Door is the iconic, world-famous stone arch, located just along the coastline from Lulworth Cove. Durdle Door is a must-see for everyone visiting The Jurassic Coast.

To find out more about the area, check out our fascinating facts about The Jurassic Coast. The short walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door is one of our favourites, capturing the Jurassic Coast in all its glory. The 1-hour return trip explores some of the finest scenery in the country, including towering limestone cliffs, natural arches and picture-perfect beaches.

For a more challenging hike, take on the mile walk from Lulworth Cove to Worth Matravers. This isolated stretch of the South West Coast Path offers spectacular views of sweeping bays, rugged cliffs and colourful wildflowers. The path can be challenging in places as it undulates along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, with some steep sections — but the staggering views make it all worthwhile!

Here are some of our top picks;. Drop by for a seafood sandwich or cream tea and soak up your surroundings whilst dining on their pleasant terrace. Lulworth Cove is situated on the Dorset coast east of Weymouth, and is one of the most attractive and popular sections of the Jurassic Coast.

The cove is almost perfectly formed, with the large circular cove backed by a thin strip of beach and low cliffs and entered by a gap between the rocks that form the natural harbour.

It is one of the great natural spectacles of southern England. Another impressive natural formation can be seen a little walk to the west along the South-West Coast Path at Durdle Door, where a large natural stone arch has been formed jutting into the sea, while the small cove at Stair Hole also west is a 'baby' in geological terms version of Lulworth Cove. Together, the coves, cliff scenery and Durdle Door make this a very popular destination with visitors to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset.

The small village of West Lulworth is picturesque with its traditional cottages and scenic backdrop be sure to visit the Castle Inn, a thatched pub that is one of the oldest in England , while Lulworth Castle a 17th century hunting lodge designed to look like a medieval defensive castle is another popular local attraction near East Lulworth, a little way to the east.