Durdle Door Holiday Cottages, Dorset
Words Pendle Harte
The Site
Durdle Door Holiday Cottages, Dorset, are found on the Jurassic coast, one of the UK’s most beautiful spots and a World Heritage site. These original farm buildings have been converted into six beautiful holiday cottages, named after their original functions. So we are in the Cart Shed, a spacious two-bedroom conversion with a rustic luxe feel. With lots of wood and exposed brick, it retains something of its barn roots while adding all the comforts you could ask for – a well-equipped kitchen, comfortable outsize sofas, a huge television and excellent showers and beds. Best of all, there’s a heated outdoor swimming pool shared by the six cottages, located in a suntrap of a spot accessed from the back door. Everything is comfortable, stylish and well considered. When you arrive at night and open the living room curtains in the morning you’re treated to a surprise view of the sea, just visible across a rolling landscape.
WHAT TO DO
The six cottages share a private outdoor pool that’s a delight on a sunny day. There’s also a communal games room for guests, though unless you’re here in deepest winter there’s really no need. With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches on your doorstep, there’s no shortage of activities.
Durdle Door itself is a much-photographed natural limestone arch in Lulworth, visible from the coastal path, and worth the fairly steep descent to the beach. The coastal path is a few minutes’ walk from the cottage – follow it all the way to Lulworth Cove and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline. Walk the path (admiring the views) to Lulworth where there’s a Heritage Centre focusing on local wildlife and geology. Or drive to Lulworth Castle and Park, a partly ruined early 17th century estate that offers fantastic views from its towers and lots of games on the lawn (think giant Jenga, Swingball, croquet and hours of fun) as well as a lovely playground and lots of peacocks.
WHERE TO EAT
Buy your own fish from Lulworth’s Cove Fish shop, or visit the Weld Arms pub near the castle for local scallops and home-smoked cod. The Lulworth Cove Inn has good fish and chips and a lovely garden.
THE DAMAGE
Three-night weekends in the Cart Shed (two bedrooms; sleeps five) start at £386 in low season, rising to £988 in high season.
Durdle Door Holiday Cottages, Lulworth, Dorset
