Durdle Door

Durdle Door’s famous arch was formed over thousands of years when waves eroded a hole in the limestone. The near-vertical arch has become an iconic landmark that has brought Dorset into the limelight. Every year visitors flock to this stretch of coastline to photograph Durdle Door in all its glory. We are extremely lucky to be situated just a stones throw from the Jurassic Coast’s crown jewel, and be able to host outdoor adventure activities on the famous Jurassic Coast.

School Trips on the Jurassic Coast

More than 25 years’ experience has afforded us with the reputation of offering some of the best adventure school trips on the Jurassic Coast – and we’ve got the reviews to prove it!

Groups can choose to stay in either our Residential Centre, which can sleep 139 across 3 dormitories, or our Tented village, for those who prefer a more authentic outdoors experience. Both are situated within easy reach of iconic locations along the Jurassic Coast, including Old Harry Rocks, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, so you can get out and explore the sights during your visit.

However you choose to stay, your school trip will be completely bespoke – select a range of outdoor adventure activities that are right for your group and let us plan your perfect residential trip in Dorset. We also run exciting golf Duke of Edinburgh residentials throughout the year.

Field Studies on Durdle Door

Our field studies sessions are a great opportunity for learning outside of the classroom. They will help students put geography lessons into real world situations and inspire further interest in the topic.

The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), so there’s plenty to discover. It’s been home to some of the most significant fossil discoveries in the UK and of great Geological importance. We often team up with the Jurassic Coast Trust to offer interesting evening sessions, that help inspire young people to take an active interest in the natural environment.

At Cumulus Outdoors, we are extremely lucky to be based on the coast. Our perfect location allows us to travel to a number of geologically famous destinations like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, Old Harry Rocks and Studland Bay.

We offer activities for students of varying ages, from KS1 to KS5. Whether your group is learning the basics of geography or preparing for their AS/A-Levels, Cumulus Outdoors field studies sessions are sure to not only offer real world teachings, but spark passion in budding geologists.

Watersports on the Jurassic Coast

Coasteering near Durdle Door

Whilst we don’t operate at Lulworth Cove or Durdle Door, we do offer Coasteering and climbing sessions on the Jurassic Coast cliffs, just two miles from our home in Swanage! Dancing Ledge is a stunning location to enjoy action packed activities and the perfect base for thrill seekers looking for an adventure activity in Dorset. Our expert instructors start Coasteering sessions by kiting you up and giving in-depth safety briefings before the fun begins. We operate under a strict ‘challenge by choice’ motto, where you only jump from a height you are comfortable with. We always have at least two instructors in the water with you, and often exceed minimum staffing ratios.

Raft Racing and SUP

We also recommend you sign up to a raft racing and SUP session for a thrilling half day of fun. Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) has quickly grown into being one of the most popular watersports in Dorset – and we think you’ll find out why when you try it! Raft racing consists of groups building rafts and then racing them to see who comes out on top! Both activities pair together brilliantly, and helps to promote teamwork, project management and of course enjoying the Great British outdoors!

Cumulus Outdoors offer a host of outdoor adventure activities in Dorset, many of which take place on, or close to the Jurassic Coast. Get in touch to speak to one of our friendly team to find out more.

Walking Routes at Durdle Door

Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door

The walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door is perhaps the most popular walk on the Jurassic Coast. The quickest route only takes about 30 minutes and boasts wonderful views out to sea. There is a longer route, which is better suited to hikers looking for something more challenging. Whatever option you choose, walking is a great way to see the sites.

Easy route
The easy route (or should we say the easiest route!) is just over a mile in each direction and contains some of the UK’s finest scenery, including views of Man O’War and Stair Hole. There is a crushed gravel path to follow, but it can be very steep in places and is not suitable for people with limited mobility.

Moderate route
There is a 5 mile circular route, that can can be shortened if necessary! You head down to Durdle Door first, then back through Scratchy Bottom, Hamburg Tout and then West Lulworth, before reaching your starting point at Lulworth Cove beach. Find out more.

Swanage to Durdle Door

Challenging route

If you are an experienced walker staying in Swanage, you’ll love this route – it’s one of the most popular long walks in Dorset! Although the terrain is moderate, the length of 19 miles (32km) will test even the fittest walkers! Your efforts are sure to be rewarded though – the route takes you from Swanage, the most Easterly point on the Jurassic Coast, all the way along the coastline, to Durdle Door. Be mindful that the walk isn’t a circuit, so you’ll need to arrange travel back to Swanage, and should factor this into what time you plan to walk. Find out more.