Durlston Country Park


Seabird Boat Trips		Observatory Plans		National Nature Reserve

Enjoy a seabird cruise along the Jurassic Coast, guided by the Rangers - Puffins, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and more - for details, visit events

We hope to construct a small astronomical observatory next to the Visitor Centre this summer, see the plans here...

In early June Durlston will be designated a National Nature Reserve - the highest conservation designation awarded in this country!

Durlston Country Park is a fabulous 113 hectare (280 acre) countryside paradise, consisting of sea-cliffs, coastal limestone downland, haymeadows, hedgerows and woodland. Whether it is the fabulous views, walks, the Great Globe, the superb geology or the fascinating array of wildlife, there is always something different to see at Durlston. See photos.

Durlston

On the southeast tip of Purbeck, 1 mile from Swanage in Dorset, this superb site, owned and managed by Dorset County Council, is governed by the ethos of 'Conservation for Public Enjoyment'.

Durlston is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site which runs from Exmouth in the west to Old Harry Rocks at Ballard Down. Durlston is also designated as Heritage Coast, Special Area of Conservation, Site of Special Scientific Interest, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the offshore waters are part of the Marine Research Area.

The accessible Visitor Centre is popular with families and children featuring sound from the seabed, live video pictures of seabird colonies, monthly displays and a Daily Diary of wildlife sightings. You can also buy guides, maps, books, souvenirs, drinks and confectionery. The Lookout café is perched on the cliffs at Durlston Castle, a Victorian folly built in the 1880's.