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I recently visited Durdle Door Dorset and will be adding it to my day trips series!. Yes, before everyone comes for me I did a UK staycation after all the shade I threw at it. I should actually be ashamed of myself and I take everything back that I said! Here is what it was like visiting Durdle Door Dorset and some things to do in Dorset.
I’ve always believed travel meant getting on a plane you know for me, “real travel” was hopping on a flight, landing somewhere new, like Singapore, Morocco, Peru etc. and exploring a different culture. Staycations? Honestly, I used to roll my eyes at the idea. Read my collab post I did with Char at Memoirs & Musings where we wrote a post on 7 Reason Not to Do A Staycation in The UK. We can laugh now because I have recently done Mayfield Lavender Farms and have plans to visit Bath, Margate and many more places around the UK.
In June 2021, after months of lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions, I found myself craving an escape that didn’t require any borders, passport control just so that I can breathe fresh air, see something new, and remind myself of the beauty of the world. That’s how I ended up at Durdle Door, on England’s Jurassic Coast. Here is a quick Durdle Door guide of all the things to do in Dorset.
Related post for other UK staycation – Day Trips from London: 8 BEST Places to Visit in the UK
First Impressions of Durdle Door Dorset
The drive down to Dorset was already a mood-lifter. You know rolling through green fields, glimpses of the sea, and the kind of countryside charm that feels worlds away from city life. It reminded me of Wroughton where I grew up as a child before moving to London. The drive was just over 3 hours which wasn’t to bad if you are not driving.
When we got to the Durdle Door’s iconic limestone arch, I was in absolute awe. It stood proudly against turquoise water that looked like it belonged to the Mediterranean sea. I loved standing at the cliff edge, taking it all in and just facing the reality of where these last two years had gone. The waves crashed against the rocks, families setting up picnics, kids daring each other into the cold English sea. I needed it and I loved it all in the same breath.
For a moment, I forgot I was in the UK. Just for a very quick moment.
Why This Trip Felt Different
This wasn’t just another one of those day trips. After months indoors, it was the first time I’d felt a sense of freedom in so long. Yes I had gone to Italy, and ski in Bulgaria, but lets be real 2020 was the year I hadn’t travelled as much as I had anticipated. I had Jordan, Jamaica, France and so many other countries planned. The salty air, the sound of laughter, the sun warming my skin all of it felt like a reset button. Like everything was going to be ok.
I realised at that very moment, something important: travel doesn’t always mean distance. Sometimes, it’s just about changing your scenery. Durdle Door reminded me that the UK has its own hidden gems worth exploring, places that can surprise you with its very own beauty.
Tips for Visiting Durdle Door
If you’re planning a visit, here are a few things to do in Dorset and know before you embark on your trip to Durdle Door Dorset:
- It gets busy! Arrive early in the morning or on a weekday if you want space to yourself.
- The path down to the beach is steep and uneven. Wear comfortable shoes, (I wore trainers) and bring water, drinks etc.
- A picnic blanket, snacks, and of course your camera (trust me, you’ll take a hundred photos).
- Just around the corner is Lulworth Cove, a calmer but equally stunning beach. Perfect for a quieter stop if you have time.
- You can also book a private tour via GetYourGuide here. I would say it’s quite pricey and may be cheaper going by car or train.
- If you plan staying over and making it a longer trip, below is a map of where Durdle Door is with some nearby hotels that you can book:
Hotels Near Durdle Door Dorset
I didn’t manage to stay of get myself a Durdle Door hotel for the night, but if you are going to make it a UK staycation then you can certainly book a stay using the map below.
Conclusion – Reflections
Did this Durdle Door guide help? After my trip to Durdle Door Dorset I have had to do a U-turn on my views on doing staycations lol! Can you believe I used to say I’d never do a staycation, but Durdle Door proved me wrong. It gave me the same sense of joy and perspective I usually find when travelling abroad. Sometimes, you don’t need to go far to feel like you’ve had a true escape. You can just start close to home.
If you’ve ever dismissed UK travel like I once did, I’d encourage you to put Durdle Door on your list. It’s proof that beauty, freedom, and adventure can be found closer to home than you think.
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What UK staycation or staycation have you done? Let me know I want to be inspired.
Speak soon,
MBV x
