Walk 3389 - printer friendly version

Bindon Hill and the Fossil Forest from Lulworth Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 4.0 miles / 6.5 km

Ascent - 900 feet / 273 metres

Grade - easy/mod

Start - OS grid reference SY821800
Lat 50.619429 + Long -2.2543856
Postcode BH20 5RS (approx. location only)

Known as the Jurassic Coast, the south coast of England from East Devon to Purbeck in Dorset is one of the most significant earth science sites in the world, displaying a remarkable combination of internationally renowned features. This walk visits two of the important features, namely Lulworth Cove and the Fossil Forest, in a circular route that also provides fine views east to Kimmeridge Bay.

The start is the main car park next to the visitor centre at Lulworth Cove (Grid ref. SY821800). This can be a very busy place during peak times and if you prefer a quiet walk then do avoid peak holiday periods. Exit the car park and turn left along the B3070 towards West Lulworth. Turn right into Bindon Road.

The climb starts here and after 100 metres take the footpath signed on the right hand side of the road (Grid ref SY823804). Do not take the path alongside the fence towards the sea but instead follow the path going half left steeply uphill. Stay on this path and continue uphill to reach the ridge of Bindon Hill, which you follow eastwards to join a track just past a radio facility. Stay on this track and enjoy the extensive views especially towards Worbarrow Bay and along the coast to Kimmeridge.

Continue along the track towards its end and then descend on the path to join the South West Coast Path (SWCP). Reaching this National Trail, turn left and follow it down to the cliffs above Mupe Bay. Erosion on the side of Bindon Hill has caused the SWCP to be diverted and there are signs warning of potential dangers. Stay on the coastal path past Mupe Rocks to reach the Fossil Forest, the most complete fossil record of a Jurassic forest in the world.

Just past the fossil forest the waymarked path leaves the coast to head inland to reach Little Bindon (Grid ref. SY830798). Turn left after this derelict farm and follow the waymarked path down to the shores of Lulworth Cove, one of the most famous features within the World Heritage Site, to reach the shingle beach. Turn right along the beach back to the slipway where you can regain the road and walk the short distance uphill back to the start.

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