Lulworth Castle

Lulworth Castle is a unique 17th-century Jacobean hunting lodge located in East Lulworth, Dorset. Unlike many typical castles, it was originally built to entertain royalty and now stands as a fascinating “consolidated ruin” after a catastrophic fire in 1929.

What to Do
Explore the Interior: Walk through the shell of the castle to see original interior walls and learn about the 1929 fire through informative displays and memorabilia.
Climb the Tower: Ascend 138 steps to the roof for 360-degree panoramic views of the Purbeck countryside and the Jurassic Coast.
Visit the Chapels: Discover the 18th-century St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Chapel (disguised as a garden temple) and the 15th-century St. Andrew’s Church.
Family Activities: Children can take part in a “Hunt the Bat” trail (finding 10 hidden bats), use the woodland playground, or play lawn games like giant Jenga and pitch ‘n’ putt.
Walks & Picnics: Enjoy extensive parkland, woodland walks, and designated picnic areas.

Visitor information
Time Spent: Most visitors spend 2 to 4 hours (half a day) exploring the castle, grounds, and tearoom.
Best Suited To: Families (due to the playground and trails), history buffs, and dog owners (dogs are welcome on leads in the park and inside the castle).
Best Times to Go: Spring and Summer (April–September) offer the best weather for the grounds. However, the castle is typically closed on Fridays and Saturdays for private events like weddings.
Opening Times: Generally open Sunday to Thursday, 10:30 am to 5:00 pm (Summer) or 4:00 pm (Winter). It closes for the winter between late December and early March.

Unique Features
Lulworth is unique because it is an “unrestored” interior within a fully restored exterior. This allows you to see the raw architectural textures and the massive scale of the fire’s devastation while remaining sheltered indoors. It is also one of only five extant Elizabethan or Jacobean buildings of its specific “fortified lodge” style.

Membership, Offers & Booking Tips
English Heritage & Historic Houses: Members of English Heritage and the Historic Houses Association typically receive free entry to the castle, though you must show a valid membership card. Note: English Heritage newspaper vouchers are generally not accepted here.
Booking: You can book tickets online in advance or buy them on the day if capacity allows. Members do not need to pre-book.
Parking Tips: Parking is £3 for the whole day at the castle. If you also plan to visit Lulworth Cove or Durdle Door on the same day, use the three-car-park system: pay only when leaving your final destination to avoid double-paying (though total charges may then be calculated hourly).
Free Entry Days: The castle occasionally participates in Heritage Open Days (e.g., in September), offering free entry to the public.