Coast and wildlife

Durlston Country Park, near Swanage, is a National Nature Reserve, with outstanding coastal views and meadows packed with wildflowers in summer.

There is a fantastic free visitor centre, easy parking, café and events all year round.

Welcome to Durlston

With stunning views across the Jurassic Coast, an award winning Visitor Centre and amazing summer meadows, Durlston Country Park has something for everyone! This feels more like countryside than a park, with rugged coast and meadows packed with wildflowers. Fantastic free visitor centre, easy parking, café, surfaced paths and events make it a good place to visit all year round.

Things to do

Visitor Centre: The FREE visitor centre is a great place to start your visit, with Rangers on hand to help.  Find out about the geology of the Jurassic Coast in The Rock Room, get an idea of what wildlife to look out for with the monthly display and be inspired by the creative exhibitions in the Fine Family Gallery which are changed regularly.

Walking: There are several waymarked trails you can follow showcasing the wildlife and heritage of Durlston, taking you through woodlands, along the coast and through meadows teaming with wildlife. Or join in a guided walk lead by one of the Durlston rangers to get a great insight into what’s special about Durlston. Most of the paths are suitable for pushchairs and Tramper all terrain mobility scooters are available to hire.

Wildlife: The superb area of coastal grassland and sea cliffs make it one of the best places in Britain for watching birds and wildlife. You can see interesting wildlife all year round: downland flowers in spring; butterflies between May & September; seabirds between March & July and migrant birds April and May, August to October. And always keep your eyes out for dolphins … there is even a Dolphin Hut to find out more.

Take in the views: You can find lots of seats and picnic benches in the meadows and overlooking the coast – pack a picnic or simply sit and take some time out from your busy life, the views are outstanding.

Children’s activities: Regular children’s activities are held in school holidays throughout the year, taking a fun look seasonal wildlife and history.

Visit the Durlston Country Park website for news, events and further information.

Other places to visit nearby

×