Visit > About Durlston :: How To Get Here :: Facilities :: Access For All :: Family Fun :: The Rangers :: History :: Astronomy

Facilities

Durlston holds a Green Flag award in recognition of the high standard of services to visitors. We welcome comments and suggestions from visitors to help us maintain and improve our service.

Opening Times

The Park is open all year round, from sunrise to sunset.

The Visitor Centre

The Visitor Centre is a must for all. Exhibits include:

  • Sounds from under the sea
  • Live video pictures of seabird colonies
  • Monthly displays
  • A Daily Diary detailing the latest sightings

You can also buy guides, maps, books, souvenirs, drinks and snacks.  

A Ranger is always on duty to help you make the most of your trip to Durlston.

Opening Hours

  • Easter - October
    Every day: 10:00 - 17:00
  • November - March
    Weekends and School Holidays only: 10:30 - 16:00

Access For All

Durlston is a hilly cliff-top site but some areas are accessible to less mobile visitors - please call for details, as much can depend on the ground conditions.

Durlston has two 'Tramper' buggies for loan - please phone to book or for more details. 

Be aware that some areas are not suitable for a standard electric buggy, or the Tramper.

The Visitor Centre is fully accessible, and has a toilet for disabled visitors and a fully accessible viewing hide.

Some picnic tables are wheelchair accessible - ask for details.

Shop

Sited within the Visitor Centre, a small shop sells Trail leaflets, maps, books, postcards and Durlston souvenirs, as well as a limited selection of soft drinks, tea, coffee and confectionery.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are located in the area around the Visitor Centre and car parks, some of which are wheelchair accessible.

Rubbish and recycling bins can be found at the Visitor Centre.

Toilets

Toilets are located at the Visitor Centre and include a toilet for disabled visitors and nappy changing facilities.

Car Parking

There is a large pay and display car-park.

Parking Charges

Cars
Easter - October
  • £5 all day
  • £4 for 4hrs
  • £2.50 for 2hrs
  • £2 for 1 hour
November - March
  • Weekdays: £1 all day
  • Weekends: £2 all day
Coaches
All times
  • £8

Coach parking is very limited. Coaches must park in the first car-park area on the left, (signposted Castle & Globe)

Why We Charge

The only charge made for visiting Durlston is that of parking - it is also the biggest source of comments!  However it is essential, as it helps pay for:

  • Visitor Centre
  • Public Toilets
  • Countryside Ranger Service
  • Education Programme
  • Land Management    

Parking charges are payable all day every day. 

There are no concessions for disabled visitors or blue badge holders, although there is a drop off point by the Visitor Centre. 

Overnight parking is not allowed. 

Dogs

Dogs are welcome, but please:

  • Keep them on a lead or under close control.
  • Clear up after them. We have provided 9 bins to help you.

We have placed water bowls outside the Visitor Centre for your dogs to enjoy a drink. 

Bicycles

Cycling and horse riding are not permitted at Durlston (outside of the Car Parks).

Cycle racks can be found at the Visitor Centre.

Walking Trails

Four Trails provide an ideal starting point for your exploration of Durlston. The Clifftop, Wildlife, Woodland and Victorian Trails are clearly waymarked, with good access.

Leaflets for each Trail are available from the Visitor Centre, where most of the Trails start.

Education

Durlston offers a comprehensive package of services to schools, colleges and universities.

The Lighthouse

Anvil Point Lighthouse is owned and managed by Trinity House (the Lighthouse Service) and is open to visitors on various dates throughout the year. For opening times visit their website:

Visitor Centre Info Desk
Visitor Centre

 The Trail Begins...
Children's events 

Widget
Widget: Park Dog

 Tramper Mobility Vehicle
The Tramper buggy

 Ranger and Telescope
Astronomical observatory 

 Sea View

 The Great Globe
Guided walks

Tilly Whim Board
Information boards at Tilly Whim 

Anvil Point Lighthouse at Durlston
Anvil Point Lighthouse