One of the must-do excursions for anyone visiting Dorset is a day trip to the beach at Durdle Door, the iconic stone archway.

Durdle Door is one of the most photographed landmarks along the Jurassic Coast.

This rock arch in the sea was formed as a result of the softer rocks being eroded away behind the hard limestone, allowing the sea to punch through them.

Below the cliffs lies a sweeping beach which, unfortunately, has no facilities, although in summer a mobile kiosk on the path leading to Durdle Door provides ice creams and refreshments.

Access to the beach is now somewhat limited following a landslide which destroyed the main steps down to the beach.

However, it is still possible to reach the bay, but it is not advisable to attempt to take very small children down.

Visitors can also enjoy Man of War bay, which lies behind the cliff at Durdle Door, or take a trip over to Lulworth Cove, where there are a number of shops and restaurants.

Eventually the arch will collapse to leave a sea stack such as those that can be seen at Ladram Bay in East Devon.

The name Durdle derives from an old English word ‘thirl’, meaning bore or drill.

To get there from Weymouth head towards Dorchester, then take the A352 signposted for Wool and Wareham.

Towards Wool follow the brown signs for Durdle Door.

Access and car parking is via Durdle Door Holiday Park which leads to a pay and display car park at the top of the cliffs..

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