Places To Visit In & Around Lulworth

West Lulworth nestles in a valley that runs out to the Cove. It is a beautiful rural village with thatched cottages, wild flowers, fishing boats, lobster pots, quaint gift shops and tea rooms. There are miles of countryside to explore, with range walks stretching out in every direction from the village. There is no better place to begin your exploration of the south coast and Purbeck.

Lulworth Cove
8-10 minute walk from April Springs

Lulworth is situated at the east side of the Isle of Purbeck that is renowned for its beauty and diverse wildlife.

Lulworth Cove is an idyllic location of great natural and geological significance. The sheltered bay is surrounded by steep cliffs and a narrow mouth. The Cove is a safe haven for those wishing to leave behind the stress and strain of modern life, to soak in the laid-back atmosphere of rural Dorset. This is surely one of the most romantic spots on the Jurassic Coast.

Durdle Door
5 minute drive or short bike ride from April Springs

Just along the coast path from Lulworth Cove sits one of Dorset's most famous landmarks.

The majestic natural arch carved by the sea into the limestone cliff has been described as a "geological wonder". On summer evenings, one can find peace and tranquillity as the bay is slowly cast into shadow while the waves beat at the shingle beach. There is good snorkelling in calm weather and caves that can be explored. On more turbulent days, one can experience the great power of the sea as it sucks back the shingle with almighty force.

Man'o'War Bay
5 minute drive or short bike ride from April Springs

Take the left hand cliff path on the way to Durdle Door to visit this sheltered bay.

Man'o'War Bay is on the other side of the cliff to Durdle Door. A large rock provides shelter from the full force of the sea, making for calmer and safer waters than at Durdle Door. The rock itself is accessible for fair swimmers. The different seaweeds in the rock's shadow provide excellent snorkelling. The sheltered shingle beach is ideal for sunbathing.

Lulworth Castle & Grounds
5 minute drive or 40 minute walk from April Springs

Built in 1610 Lulworth Castle was originally a hunting lodge to attract King James I to the Isle of Purbeck. In 1641 it was purchased by the Weld estate, in whose possession it has remained to this day.

Lulworth castle has played host to a total of seven different monarchs over the centuries. Despite tragically catching fire in 1929, it has been restored to its former glory. Courtesy of the estate, visitors can wander the castle and grounds and discover the story of this magnificent building and the family who lived there. In the summer season there are many different events held in the castle grounds such as medieval jousting.

Corfe Castle
20 minutes drive from April Springs

A short scenic drive or cycle ride over the ridgeway from Lulworth takes you into the heart of the Isle of Purbeck and to another of Dorset's most famous landmarks Corfe Castle.

Built soon after the Norman conquest by William the conqueror, the Castle was destroyed by the Parliamentarian forces in the seventeenth century, leaving behind the haunting ruin which remains today. Now maintained by the National Trust, visitors can climb the steep hill to explore the ruin, or visit the heritage centre to learn more about the castle's history.

The Village at the foot of the Castle is very much a typical Purbeck village, with its ancient buildings and an array of delightful shops and cafes.

Monkey World
8 minute drive from April Springs

Dorset is home to the acclaimed ape rescue centre, Monkey World. Take a day to visit the stars of Channel Four's hit TV series "Monkey Business". Kids can learn about many species of primate, many of which are endangered, as well as getting to play in the South's largest adventure play area. A great day out for the whole family. www.monkeyworld.org

Tank Museum
10 minute drive from April Springs

Nip inland to Bovington Camp, the home of the military's Challenger 2 tank. See tanks from the earliest World War One prototype, visit the acclaimed Trench Exhibition, or check out the sensational "Tanks in Action" military displays. www.tankmuseum.co.uk

Swanage Steam Railway
20 minute drive from April Springs

Visitors can ride the Swanage Steam Railway through the spectacular Purbeck Countryside to Corfe Castle and beyond. A fantastic experience. There is a park and ride service at Norden station, which would allow visitors to stop on and explore Harmans Cross and Corfe Castle on the way into Swanage. Visit the website for more information.

Swanage is also Purbeck's main seaside town. Here you will find a sandy beach, some great sailing, countless fish'n'chip shops, a theatre and some great restaurants and pubs. Children also love to catch crabs on the pier.

Studland Beach
20 minute drive from April Springs

If a simple day by the sea is what's in order, there is only one place for many Dorset locals, Studland! With its clean, safe waters and soft sand, Studland is ideal for a family day out. One can sunbathe in the summer sun, go for a swim or snorkel, or explore the sand dunes. There is also a chain ferry, which will take you across the water into Poole harbour, the second largest natural harbour in the world.

Wareham Quay & Saxon Walled Town
10 minute drive from April Springs

Wareham is seen by many as the centre of the Isle of Purbeck. Originally fortified as a "burh" in the late ninth century for defence against the Viking invaders, modern visitors can still take a short scenic walk around Alfred the Great's earth ramparts.

Tyneham Village & Warbarrow Bay
10 minute drive from April Springs

The village of Tyneham was deserted during the Second World War, to be used by the military for exercises and the inhabitants were never to return. Take a trip down to this beautiful little village and step back over half a century in time. Find out the story of some of these inhabitants as you explore the empty buildings and the restored schoolhouse.

A very short walk takes you down to the sea into Warbarrow Bay. This is another of Dorset's secluded bays with excellent views.

Dorchester: Iron Age Hillfort and Roman Villa
25 minute drive from April Springs

Heading West out of the Purbecks takes you to the Roman town of Dorchester, Dorset's county town. Famous as Thomas Hardy's "Casterbridge", Dorchester has many attractions to explore, from museums, to Prince Charles' Poundbury village.

Take a trip to see the remains of a real Roman villa, complete with mosaic floors. Or looming above the old town stands Maiden Castle, the largest hillfort in Europe, built during the iron age. Take a walk around the network of ramparts and ditches to admire one of England's most impressive ancient earthworks.

Special Offers

10% Discount for either of the following two weeks:
27 June 2008 and 4 July 2008 now available due to cancellation.

 

Prices & Availability

April Springs prices range from £298 to £785 per week. Please phone or email for specific prices and availability.

In the Summer Season from the beginning of May to early October, the accommodation can be booked on a weekly basis from Friday to Friday.

In Winter Season from mid-October to the end of April, the accommodation can be booked for a minimum of 3 nights.

Prices quoted are fully inclusive of heating, electricity and bed-linen.

 

English Tourist Board grading applied for.
Minimum 3 star grading expected.