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Fossil Forest

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Julian Dowse via Geograph.org.uk

The Fossil Forest is a set of fossilised remains of an ancient forest on the coast just east of Lulworth Cove in Dorset, on the South West Coast Path. What survives is not wood but stony, ring-shaped mounds that formed around the trunks of long-vanished trees rooted beside a lagoon. A gate and a fli...

10

Parking nearby

1

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 5 overnight

The Countryman Inn – Ballymena

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Fossil Forest?
Dorset's dramatic coastline conceals this ancient geological feature right on the rock platform near Lulworth Cove. Walkers discover the stone rings sitting tightly along the coastal edge.

What type of place is Fossil Forest?
Fossil Forest is a fossilised landscape on the Dorset coast.

When is the best time to visit Fossil Forest?
Spring through to autumn provides the most reliable weather for walking down the steep cliff path safely. Checking the army range firing schedules beforehand remains absolutely essential since the military restricts public access.

What can you do at Fossil Forest?
Exploring the ancient limestone ledge allows you to peer into the hollow circular moulds left by prehistoric trees millions of years ago. People also capture incredible photographs of the unique structures against the backdrop of the English Channel.

How long should I spend at Fossil Forest?
Allocating roughly an hour gives you plenty of time to examine the fossilised remains and read the information boards. Combining the trip with a longer hike along the South West Coast Path works brilliantly for an afternoon out.

Where do I park at Fossil Forest?
Vehicles can use the ten available spaces nearby, which include five day and five overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Fossil Forest?
The Countryman Inn – Ballymena provides one place to get a meal in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Fossil Forest?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Fossil Forest, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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