Durlston Country Park and Nature Reserve

On the 18th November, after many months of restoration and transformation, Durlston Castle near Swanage opened to the public. Inside the newly restored castle is a new visitor centre with interactive geology, history and wildlife displays; and the Fine Foundation Gallery, with its regularly renewed art and craft displays. Durlston Castle will be open every day (except Christmas Day) and entry is free.

The castle is set in Durlston Country Park: 280 acres of spectacular Dorset countryside with fantastic walking trails taking in cliffs and sea views, limestone downland and woodland. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and a National Nature Reserve. The Durlston website details the amazing diversity of wildlife at Durlston Nature Reserve, including: 33 species of breeding butterfly, over 250 species of birds recorded, 500 wildflowers, 500 moths and thousands of other invertebrates.

Inside the Castle, is the Seventh Wave cafe & restaurant providing a delicious menu, made with lots of local produce. You can choose from early morning coffee and cake, lunchtime specials and snacks, and delicious evening meals in the restaurant in the evenings. The café and restaurant is open every day from 10.00 to 4.30, and on Wednesday to Saturday evenings from 6.00pm to 9.00pm during the winter.

You can follow updates from Durlston Country Park on their Facebook page

Here at Chesil Beach Lodge we offer a choice of delightful and sustainable bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation in a stunning location on the Jurassic Coast, and within easy travelling distance of Durlston Counry Park and many other fantastic local events and attractions in Dorset.

Please contact us for more details, or to book Dorset accommodation.