Man Of War Bay, also known as Man O’ War Beach or Man O’ War Cove, is a popular beach that is located near to Durdle Door Holiday Park in the west of Lulworth in Dorset, England. A popular tourist destination, the bay area sees thousands upon thousands of visitors each year.
The beach and cove are flanked by the rocky, steep, and projecting headlands that Durdle Door is known for which is located to the west of Man O’ War and the Man O’ War Head to the east. The Bay is partially closed off by a line of pronounced rocks on the far side of the cove, they also have a few different submerged components and features mostly at the east end of the bay. There is no need to worry, as the areas that are open to visitors are clearly marked.
The beach located within the Mano of War Bay is a very popular beach due to its location near to the local holiday park. The park sees many visitors throughout the year but is particularly busy during the warmer summer months. It is a sand beach which also contains fine pebbles, but nothing that makes it uncomfortable to walk on barefooted. The Man O’ War and Durdle Door shelter the beaches and provide it with safe and gentle seas perfect for swimming and paddling in, although not the best option for surfers!
The bay, including Durdle Door, is considered part of the Jurassic Coast Heritage Site which starts from Studland in Dorset and ends in Exmouth in Devon. Visitors could easily spend an entire day searching for fossils in the area. Descending down onto the beach and bay is steep and is not suitable for those with a disability or wheelchairs, it is advised to wear appropriate footwear when visiting accessing and exiting the beach.
Fear not if you are worried about finding facilities in the area. The beach has a number of refreshment kiosks, a souvenir shop, toileting facilities in the car park of the Durdle Door Holiday Park. There are plenty of car parks in the area, but do note that these fill up quickly during the busier summer months. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round, however, you would be expected to keep them on a lead and clean up after them.
During the summer seasons, you can reach the beach by using the Jurassic Coast X54 or the Purbeck Breezer 30 bus to the holiday park entrance. Or you can take a walk along the beautiful South West Coast Path from Lulworth Cove. Speaking of walking, there are plenty of footpaths in the area, so if you enjoy a good hike, consider following one of the designated, local trails to be treated with amazing views of the area.
