Dorset Explored
  • Areas To Visit
  • Things To Do
  • Eat & Drink
  • Places To Stay
  • Subscribe
Things To Do

This Hidden Fossil Forest in Dorset Has Been Frozen in Time for Millions of Years

by Harriet Young Published: February 3, 2025
written by Harriet Young Published: February 3, 2025
629

Lulworth Cove is world-famous and a popular spot for tourists, hikers, photographers and anyone who wants to marvel at the beautiful, secluded, turquoise bay.

The spot is also widely known for its geology, with many of the rocks dating back over 80 million years.

The cove was once a wall of Portland Stone that began to erode as the sea broke through.

As the years passed, the sea eroded the softer sand and clay behind it, eventually creating the circular bay that stands there today.

The cove became one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Dorset.

Dorset offers a truly unique and interesting sight: the Lulworth Fossil Forest, which contains the fossilised remains of an ancient forest dating back millions of years.

Dorset Explored / Alan Young

Lulworth Cove is a hugely popular spot for dog walkers and hikers, as it’s a fantastic place to explore from the cliff tops, offering breathtaking views, walking route to Durdle Door and rocky beach (which is a great spot for sea glass hunters and rockpool adventures with little ones).

🚘 There is a car park located in Lulworth Cove. It is open 24/7, and fees apply.

Alltrails / Angela Tysoe

Located on the eastern side of Lulworth Cove, you can find the remains of a Cypress forest.

During the Jurrasic period, when the sea levels fell a series of trees and stumps grew into a forest.

During this time, the forest floor would have been swampy and wet, which allowed algae to grow and live around the bases of the trees.

Over time, the area flooded, killing the trees that were encased by the algae.

Instagram / bournemouthmike

Fossilised algae and tree stumps have been encased in Portland stone for over 150 million years.

When visiting, you can see the stumps and outline of fallen trees that have been frozen in time.

Instagram / jimbnw

Please note that the Fossil Forest is within the Lulworth Firing Range.

This means that the area may not always be open due to safety reasons, although it is open most weekends and school holidays.

🐚 You can find out the firing range timetable here.

Alltrails / Angela Tysoe

The walk is perfect for dog walkers and keen hikers, but it may be difficult for children (depending on their mobility) because it is not pushchair-friendly.

There are also a series of inclines and declines that may be difficult to navigate with little ones or anyone with limited mobility.

That being said, the Fossil Forest can be a brilliant spot for little ones who particularly love dinosaurs and adventures outside.

Alltrails / Angela K-R

During your trip, you may want to visit the quaint village of Lulworth, which has pretty thatched roofs, independent shops and country pubs.

Although it can get busy, the area is a friendly and happy spot, which is perfect for all ages.

Alltrails / Patrycja Pulkowska

The Fossil Forest is a great day out for a unique experience that won’t break the bank. Lulworth Cove, with its incredible natural beauty, will blow you away, making you want to pack up all your belongings and stay forever.

If you’re interested in finding a route to the Fossil Forest, then you can find one on Alltrails here.

📍 Lulworth Cove car park, BH20 5RQ

0 comments FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Harriet Young

I am a mother of two beautiful boys and wife to Alan, with whom I started Dorset Explored. My passion for Dorset runs deep, as it's an incredible place that I love to explore and experience anew. Every day brings a new discovery about Dorset, deepening my love for my home county.

previous post
Ride The Historic Steam Train in Dorset That’s a Bucket-List Must
next post
This Charming Dorset Cafe Has Been Serving Vintage Treasures And Delicious Delights For 31 Years

You may also like

This Dorset Christmas Lights Trail With Real Reindeer...

Published: November 29, 2025

12 Magical Places to Enjoy Dorsets Autumn Beauty...

Published: October 28, 2025

Make This October Half Term Extraordinary With These...

Published: October 24, 2025

This Small Dorset Company Is Making Big Waves...

Updated: October 20, 2025

Escape The City Lights And Discover A Sky...

Published: October 4, 2025

Catch A Crab (And Some Happy Memories) At...

Published: September 29, 2025

Step Inside Dorset’s Walled Garden And Discover Five...

Published: September 8, 2025

This Historic Coastal Fortress Is One Of The...

Updated: September 9, 2025

This Over-The-Top Circus Show Is Coming To Dorset,...

Published: July 19, 2025

What to Bring to Camp Bestival for Your...

Updated: July 3, 2025

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Footer Logo
  • Advertise with With Us
  • About Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms And Conditions 
  • Affiliate Disclaimer
  • Contact

Back To Top
Dorset Explored
  • Areas To Visit
  • Things To Do
  • Eat & Drink
  • Places To Stay
  • Subscribe