“Durdle Door”- The Limestone Arch in England

Durdle Door is a magnificent limestone arch located on the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset, England. It is a wonderful breathtaking view to watch the remarkable formations along the picturesque coastline. Nature has such an intriguing capacity to create such a marvelous creation, is worthy of appreciation. The place possesses a strange magnetic pull, luring many tourists into its core of natural excellence.

The History behind the Formation

It is believed that about 25 million years ago, the natural phenomenon of plate tectonics resulted in the creation of the incredible limestone arch. A collision between the African tectonic plate and the European plate generated an immense amount of pressure, resulting in the formation of the famous mountain of the Alps. The effects of the collision went on spreading below the Earth's surface and started folding the rocks. The impact was extremely powerful to create vertical structures of southern England's Jurassic and the Cretaceous strata.

The sea breached through the hard limestone folded rocks, eroded the softer rocks to create the beautifully curved archway. The hard limestone rocks protruding into the sea are called headlands, with an alternate formation of hard and soft rock. The wind and waves along with the sea waters increase the erosion frequency of the soft rocks resulting in arch and caves.

Best Time to Visit

Summer months starting from March till June, when there are no rains and no chill in the air.

Places to see

• Durdle Door

• Lulworth Cove

• Stair Hole

• Worbarrow Bay

• Tyneham village

• Osmington Mills

• The coastal line of Ringstead

Things to do

The walk along the coastal line is stunning with the beautiful sparkling waters, beaches adorned by the small rocks, and the looming arch and stump standing gracefully over the sea. The name of the arch is derived from the old English word called “thirl”. The place is privately owned by a family called Welds. The approximate area of coverage is 50 sq. km. The spectacular display of the high emerging cliffs at the seaside, the dominating Durdle Door Arch has mesmerized many tourists worldwide.

It is relaxing to walk along the lush green coastal path with the whirling breeze and the serene natural beauty around. The glittering waters offer a perfect spot for a pleasant swim. There are occasional camps along the beach for a picnic at the backdrop of the splendid scenery. It is an amazing experience to watch the reflection of the sun rays on the arch and the caves showering magical effects on the viewers.

Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are both listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lulworth Cove is a fascinating village with lovely white beaches and an astonishing landscape. There are several interesting spots along the coastline where you can experience the enthralling cliffs, arches, caves, beaches, and crystal clear sea waters. The key among them is White Nothe, Stair Hole, Man o War, Fossil Forest, and Mupe Bay.

You can spend hours sitting alongside the coast or the beach watching the pristine natural wonders. The place is also famous for several outdoor activities like mountain walking and biking, snorkeling, coastal hikes.

Worborrow Bay is another interesting place to visit near Durdle Door. It is a shallow and wide bay and can be accessed by walking through the village of Tyneham. Tyneham is an abandoned village and it is said that its creation is way back 60 years. The village is known to be isolated during World War II. As you walk past the deserted lanes, you will find the abandoned houses and cottages.

Stair Hole is another small cove near the Lulworth Cove. The place offers many caves and the famous Lulworth crumple formed by the folded limestone rocks. The formation is similar to the way the limestone arches were formed by the erosion of the softer rocks.

You can spend an entire day around Durdle Door and walk around with nature unfolding itself with its store of wonderful creations and formations. The mystic beauty is enthralling and blissful. The peace and calmness around create a soothing environment. The place is a witness of nature's impeccable mysteries.

If you have not visited the place, please do so and treat your eyes to nature's astounding phenomenon.