Durlston is a 320-acre Country Park and National Nature Reserve located on the outskirts of Swanage in Dorset, stretching along the coast of the Isle of Purbeck. It is a popular destination for tourists to enjoy walks, views, the visitor centre, and wildlife, including Durlston Castle, the Great Globe, Tilly Whim Caves, and Anvil Point Lighthouse. The park is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, forms part of the 630-mile South West Coast Path, and is owned and managed by Dorset Council.
A day at Durlston offers something for everyone, regardless of the weather! Discover flower-filled meadows and hunt for butterflies, explore the Victorian Pleasure Grounds and the historic Great Globe, take in an exhibition at the Castle, or relax and watch the sea. Experience stunning landscapes, amazing wildlife, exciting events, and Victorian history as you explore Durlston’s Jurassic Coast. At Durlston Castle, enjoy rooftop views, exhibitions, and a café, gallery, and shop, ensuring a great day out in any weather. You can view the events calendar here: Events | Durlston Country Park
Our woodland play trail is the perfect place to start exploring the park with little kids (or big kids at heart!). Through the sheltered canopy of the trees, you’ll discover swings, balance logs, and hammocks. Engage your senses by exploring our ‘feely boxes’, barefoot path, listening post, and chimes.
Each play feature is designed to inspire a sense of adventure and connection with nature. Perhaps you’ll continue exploring by building a den, climbing a tree, or searching for bugs!
If you want to enjoy some of the best wildlife, scenery, and coastal walking in Dorset, Durlston is ideal for both short, gentle strolls and longer hikes on the South West Coast Path. Five waymarked trails start and finish at the Castle, where you can pick up a trail guide to help you explore. The Woodland Trail leads through the historic Durlston Pleasure Grounds, the Wildlife Trail covers rolling downs and meadows, the Clifftop Trail offers views of seabird colonies and spectacular sights of Old Harry and the Isle of Wight, and the Victorian Trail leads you to historic Swanage and back. Plan your visit here: Plan Your Visit | Durlston Country Park
Durlston holds National Nature Reserve status for good reason! It’s one of the best local sites for observing a wide variety of wildlife. Durlston is home to over 250 bird species and serves as an important resting spot for migratory birds in spring and autumn. The park’s Guillemot colonies are the most easterly and second-largest on the South Coast. Additionally, more than 458 species of ‘macro-moths’ and over 200 ‘micro-moths’ have been recorded. Why not join a ‘Meet a Moth’ event to learn more? With diverse habitats across the park, it’s no wonder such a wide array of wildlife species has been documented here! Discover more about Durlston’s wildlife by visiting Wildlife | Durlston Country Park.
Don’t miss a visit to the beautiful Fine Foundation Gallery at Durlston Castle. Exhibitions change every few weeks throughout the year, showcasing drawings, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles by artists and makers from Purbeck and beyond. There’s always something new to discover!
Did you know Durlston Country Park is also available for weddings and events? The stunning gallery and belvedere provide a perfect location for special occasions. Learn more about weddings and hire here: Weddings and Hire | Durlston Country Park. For more information on exhibitions at the Fine Foundation Gallery, please visit Fine Foundation Gallery | Durlston Country Park.
Durlston hosts a fantastic variety of events throughout the year, including:
There are many opportunities to get involved at Durlston:
There’s so much to see and do here in Dorset. Why not check out our recommended days out?
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