Lulworth Castle is only a short drive from West Lulworth and makes an easy addition to a stay at Honeysuckle Cottage.
Set in the Lulworth Estate’s parkland, the Castle is surrounded by woodland, open countryside and walking trails. You can visit the Castle itself, explore the grounds, have a wander through the woodland and stop for something to eat afterwards.
It’s also one of those places where you don’t necessarily need to spend a whole day. A couple of hours is enough to see the Castle and have a good walk around the grounds, although you can easily stay longer if you want to explore more.
Where is Lulworth Castle?
Lulworth Castle is in East Lulworth, about a 10-minute drive from Honeysuckle Cottage.
Sat Nav location: BH20 5QS
There is a pay-and-display car park at the Castle, with parking currently £4 per vehicle for the day. Parking gives access to the park, woodland walks, children’s playground and picnic areas.
What is there to see?
The Castle itself dates back to the early 17th century and was originally built as a hunting lodge.
Today you can explore the Castle and Chapel, climb the tower and learn more about the history of the building and the people who lived here.
It’s not enormous, which is actually one of the things I like about it. You can take your time looking around without feeling that you’ve signed yourself up for an entire day’s sightseeing.
There are also lovely views across the surrounding countryside from the Castle and grounds.
The park and woodland
One of the reasons I think Lulworth Castle is worth visiting is that you don’t have to be particularly interested in castles to enjoy it.
The surrounding parkland and woodland are a lovely place to walk, with permissive footpaths through the estate.
There’s also a children’s playground and picnic area, so it’s a good option if you’re visiting with family.
And keep an eye out for the peacocks.
A little tip from us
Take a few 20p coins with you if you’d like to feed the peacocks. It’s a small thing, but it’s always been one of our favourite little extras when visiting the Castle.
When is Lulworth Castle open?
The Castle, Chapel and grounds are currently open Sunday to Friday, 10.30am–5pm, with the Castle and grounds closed to the public on Saturdays. There are also some additional closure dates and a winter closure, so it’s worth checking the official Lulworth website before you make a special trip.
Opening times can also vary during special events and school holidays.
How much does it cost to visit Lulworth Castle?
Current admission prices are:
- Adults — £9
- Seniors/Students — £8
- Children aged 4–15 — £6
- Under 4s — free
There is a separate £4 all-day parking charge.
Tickets can be booked in advance or bought on the day, subject to capacity.
Is Lulworth Castle worth visiting?
If you’ve already spent a day walking the coast and visiting Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, Lulworth Castle gives you something completely different.
It’s quieter, inland and surrounded by countryside rather than cliffs and sea.
I’d particularly recommend it if you enjoy history, gardens and walking, or if you happen to get one of those less-than-perfect Dorset weather days when a full day on the beach isn’t quite so appealing.
You can also combine it with lunch at The Weld Arms in nearby East Lulworth, which makes a lovely half-day outing.
Lulworth Castle and Honeysuckle Cottage
One of the advantages of staying at Honeysuckle Cottage is having so many different things to do within a short distance.
You can spend one day walking the coast to Durdle Door, another exploring Lulworth Cove and the beach, and then take a slower afternoon at Lulworth Castle and its surrounding parkland.
And because the Castle is only around 10 minutes away by car, you don’t have to plan an entire day around it.
Staying at Honeysuckle Cottage?
Private parking for two cars and Lulworth Castle just a short drive away, with Lulworth Cove and the Jurassic Coast on your doorstep.
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